So you’re a ballet flats and flip-flops kind of girl. Or maybe you LIVE in your Chuck Taylors. But your BFF just called and needs you to stand up in her wedding, and that requires, *gasp*, HEELS! Calm down. There is nothing to be afraid of. Read on to find out how you can successfully walk down the aisle or down the street without hurting yourself, and look good while you do it.

1. Start with Good Posture

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As with any project you need to start with a good foundation. One of the keys to walking in high heels is good, strong, solid posture. Make sure your body is relaxed and your arms are loose and at your sides since they will help you balance as you walk. You should be standing up straight, your head high and your feet facing forward.

2. Get Good well fitting Shoes

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I don’t care how cute those shoes look on you, if they don’t fit right you are going to look more like Bambi on ice rather than Beyonce at the Grammy’s. Start off slow with a moderately sized heel (1-2 inches) and then as you grow accustomed to them, up the size. Try to break your shoes in BEFORE you have to wear them, let’s say on a date, that way they are better fitted to your feet and you don’t wind up with blisters at the end of your night. Try to shop for shoes in the evening when your feet at at their biggest from being on them all day. Remember that you can always make your shoes smaller, but you can’t EVER make your feet smaller.

3. Make sure they have all the fixings

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Your shoes a bit loose? Purchase padding for the inside heel and pad of your shoe, that will help them fit better. Soles a bit slippery? You can buy sole grippers at your local shoe store that will add the perfect amount of traction right where you need it. You should also consider buying gel insoles for a little extra boost to your heels comfort level.