French women ditching heels? This new fashion rule helps you look taller without the pain of high heels.Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Goodbye pumps, wedge shoes, and heeled sandals. COVID has nearly erased their social standing. Just observe the fashion choices of passersby. Who apart from women in finance or law still clicks around in heels?

French Women Are Ditching High Heels

Marie-Claude Pelletier, president of Les Effrontés styling service, notes that three-quarters of women prefer keeping their heels grounded. Even the remaining heel enthusiasts opt for lower options. “They choose 2-inch [5 cm] or 2.5-inch heels, often square for support,” she explains.

A study from last February found that 30% of women wear heels 6 cm and higher, while 8% never wear heels. Meanwhile, 60% prefer smaller heels. Painful as they are, heels undeniably create a dream silhouette for those who master walking in them.

Elongating Your Silhouette Without Wearing Heels

Good news: No need to suffer in heels to elongate your legs. Follow the advice of Angèle’s stylist. In daily life, Angèle opts for Doc Martens, while on stage she chooses white sneakers with chunky socks.

Coline Bach emphasizes proportions. No piece is “forbidden” for those under 5’7” (1.70 m); it’s about smart choices. For example, petites should avoid trench coats that reach the ground and instead, choose knee-length options for a taller appearance.

Balancing Silhouettes for Any Body Type

The oversized trend suits all body types, but don’t overdo it. Pair heavier pieces with form-fitting elements to avoid overwhelming your silhouette.

Colors and fabrics also play a crucial role. Neutral pieces are perfect for grounding bold prints, so don’t be afraid to experiment with those daring patterns. Certain wardrobe stables like a slit skirt, flare jeans, or bootcut pants, are your best friends. They’re universally flattering and will elongate your silhouette, no matter your body type.

**Adieu les talons hauts, cette règle mode bien connue des stylistes permet de paraître plus mince et élancée**

This article first appeared on grazia.fr – Author: Sandrine Dumas