What to do when one has ordered fabulous shoes off of the Internet and worn them once already, making an exchange unlikely, and then discovered that they are too small?
I’ll tell you!
Recently, I picked up a fantastically useful tidbit from a stylist: apparently there is a technique that you can use to stretch out leather shoes a good half-size:
1. Put on a bunch of pairs of socks (I used two thick ones).
2. Stuff your feet into your too-small shoes (this part is no fun, but it’s worth it).
3. Blast your shoes with hot air from a blowdryer for a couple of minutes while flexing your toes and bending your feet, concentrating on the tightest areas.
4. Keep the socks and shoes on until the leather cools. Test out the shoes without socks, and repeat if necessary until they’re comfortable.
And the best part? It totally works.