Wedge shoes are shoes with thick heels that run from the back of the foot to the middle or the front. It is a common misconception that all wedges are high, but this is not always so. A wedge shoe is determined by the wedge-shaped heel, not the height of the heel. In some cases some wedge heels can be as low as an inch, while others can reach up to five or six inches of heel.

Wedge shoes are often confused with platform shoes, although the two are very different. Wedge heels are often triangular in shape and are usually made of wood or hard plastic, while platforms can be made of plastic, cork, rubber, or wood and have the heels separated from the heel of the shoes. Wedge shoes offer a greater deal of support than most stiletto shoes, but when the wedge is too high the wearer may also be in danger of tripping or falling out of balance.

Shopping for wedge shoes

When shopping for wedge shoes, you need to determine the height that you feel comfortable with, your desired material and fit, and the quality of workmanship done on the shoes. Wedge shoes often give out this worldly and sophisticated look to an outfit, which is why it is important that you get wedge shoes made of high quality, durable material such as leather. With the popularity of plastic shoes and other material today, it is also common to find wedge shoes made of fake leather, plastic, and clear, hard plastic wedge heels.

Wedges can be low length, mid length. or high length, and it is up to you to choose what length you are comfortable walking in. To do this, walk a few steps forward and back with the wedge heels, and see if you are comfortable with them. Your choice should have excellent side support as well as a good toe traction and insole support, especially if you opt for higher heels.

Wedge shoes and style

Some women may wonder what clothes go well with wedge shoes. It is true that wedge shoes may not look great with any kind of outfit. However, wedge shoes can be attractively paired with the following:

• Floral, girly skirts
• Bohemian skirts
• Peasant skirts and dresses
• Wrap dresses
• Flared pants
• Gauchos

Because wedge shoes made of leather with wooden heels can look classy yet casual, they can be worn at the office, paired with classic slacks or wide jeans. Wedge shoes are not particularly suited for very narrow pants and other tight-fitting clothing. Capris and pencil skirts may also not work too well when paired with wedge-heeled shoes.