How to Fit Shoes For Every Type of Foot - From Wide Feet to Flat Feet | By a *Real* Shoemaker

[@stubbletts]

I wish someone with your knowledge was posted at every shoe department in every store. This info is incredible! Thank you!

[@denisemorgan3469]

😂

[@AmericanDuchess1]

it used to be that way, but shoe stores have changed rather a lot....

[@gwathrien]

People who just sell a product will never have the same insight as an actual craftsman. Try have something custom made for yourself at some point, you'll be amazed. ;)

[@dis2666]

@@AmericanDuchess1 So true. I was lucky enough to work in a shoe shop with good brannocks and fitting stools and we had to fit our customers... and my co-workers were old shoe dogs from whom I learned much. It was the tail end of the Retail Era that included quality customer service and good pay that you could really live on. Looking back, it was my favorite job and I really enjoyed my customers and the excitement of working on the selling floor. Thanks for sharing your video. It was very informative and reminded me of an oral presentation I had to give for my College Speech class and the topic I chose was, The 3 most important factors to consider when fitting a pair of shoes. Thank you for the memory of that.

[@cfrygirl]

American Duchess My grandma told me about a place called Roderers Shoes here in Dayton, Ohio. They were shoe experts. They even had a X-ray machine of sorts (not sure if it was a real X-ray machine) that they would use to check how your feet fit into the shoe. It seems like people really took pride in their work back then. Its refreshing to see someone like you doing the same! Thanks again for the info!

[@ah-nononoo]

This weirdly helps me with my retail job Like, some people say "this brand doesn't fit me right" Edit: ahhh, I'd so love to see examples of feet for all of the topics you covered And like, know I can consider asking what styles they tried and what they generally wear.. Andnkr.. This video is SO wonderful

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Happy to help! It's tricky to say that a brand doesn't fit someone right, if it's a shoe brand, because there may be just certain last shapes that don't fit well, while other styles on different lasts may be perfect.

[@cfrost87]

I can't wear sketchers because they don't fit me right.

[@elisabethm9655]

And I can usually walk right into a pair of Clark’s size 7 ... or a 6.5 in a sandal. Few other brands work well for me.

[@SariennMusic73]

I had NO IDEA this was even a thing. What came to my mind half way through was, "Every Human should have at least one proper, personalized shoe pair created for them." I know we've all heard the similar line about a "perfectly tailored suit/dress," but SHOES. I can't even begin to imagine how a personalized shoe (along with some nice memory foam insoles) must feel. Talk about Heaven for Happy Feet. It'd be worth the cost. Our feet literally are the reason we all can do what we do. Pamper them with proper, personalized foot wear.

[@dakotatwilight]

This was very interesting. I would love to learn more. Shoes are always an issue for me, I hate shoe shopping. I have a child's heel with extreme high arch and instep and a slightly wider ball because of ballet dance as a child and teen and small foot print. I get sent to the children's section often.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

those are challenges indeed!

[@katherinemorelle7115]

I don’t have such small feet, mine are average in length, but I otherwise have the exact same problem- narrow heel, wider ball, and extremely high arches and insteps. Also a former ballet dancer. Maybe it’s just a thing, though it’s a different form to “dancer’s feet” that we normally think of (though I still carry the curly broken toes and missing parts of joints from my years dancing). No regrets though, even the endless search for well fitting covered shoes is worth it.

[@joannevieira5757]

I danced. Same foot issues except child size. Was a size 5 until I had my first of 4 kid (which was early but with years in between) then went up half a size with each kid.

[@erinpoppert4472]

Similar issue, It was handy as a competitive swimmer, but I hate buying shoes. I was a womens 7.5 by 2nd grade, now I'm a 7 because my arch has gotten higher. Its always odd.

[@SingingSealRiana]

Similar problem but just to long feet for it but not big enough, that I could go by mens shoes which are wide enough in the front

[@dymphygoossens]

I do some Iron Age as well - and I found a german orthopedic shoemaker who also does Roman. Result: 500 euro's lighter but a well made pair that can be repaired to oblivion that is made to my specific foot with custom inlays that correct my very flat feet. Next pair will be cheaper since he already has that wooden shape thingy of my foot. Although he might want to carve my ankles. They have decreased in width - lost some pounds.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Custom made really is the only way to get a shoe made exactly to your many foot measurements. Bulk production (like we do) can only go so far

[@dymphygoossens]

I have quite the flat foot. I was eyeing some shoes. Normally a EU 41/UK 8. I did see that US would be around 9 then?

[@carissawilliams9614]

Thank you so much! I have a tempestuous relationship with my shoes and feet. My foot always ends up smashed up in the toe box and loose in the heel. I have never had someone explain the width issues in such detail.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

You're so welcome!

[@merindymorgenson3184]

I have always had the same issue as has my dad. In addition to flat arches for which I have to wear orthotics, it makes finding shoes to fit a nearly insurmountable challenge. You have my sympathies and empathies.

[@elizabethclaiborne6461]

Every high school in America needs to show this video. Plus one on shoe heels that aren’t set on correctly so you’ll never walk straight in them. And a coed sneaker version. Poor shoe fit makes life hell. So, useful education.

[@lenccal2145]

Thank you ever so much for doing this video! I haven't worn nice slipper type shoes since... well - ever. I occasionally buy them but they behave like (very uncomfortable) flip flops on me. My feet are narrow with ridiculously thin heels - there is nothing shoes can grab on to, so they slip and chafe. Your video has given me the hope that maybe, if I get the right inserts, and the shoe gods look favorably upon me, I may be able to enjoy non-laced shoes one day. Thank you!

[@AmericanDuchess1]

thank you! very glad it was helpful!

[@Gaarasimoto]

My foots just extra wide. I usually have to buy men’s wide shoes because finding my size in ladies is just impossible

[@AmericanDuchess1]

This is one of the reasons all of our current and upcoming men's shoe styles are also in women's sizes.

[@kohakuaiko]

@@AmericanDuchess1 I love you.

[@Gaarasimoto]

Silvermoon I’m the same size

[@debvoz]

Thanks for a very interesting explanation on foot issues. As someone who wears a EEE width in a size 9, I know what you mean about fitting issues - my instep is high, my arches pretty much flat, my toes are short and my foot is wide around the joint - net result, darn near impossible to find comfortable shoes. I've known the "add some length" trick for decades, but have had "fitters" go as high as a size 11 trying to get wide enough to fit my feet - which is ridiculous. I've read, often, that very few women wear properly fitted shoes and I wonder if that is because of the idea that B is "normal" width.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Yes, that's true, shoes (like bras) are often not the right size for the wearer. B width is the modern average and the majority of the population wears B width, but 50 years ago A width was the average, and before that, AA and even AAA was the most common shoe width. It's a constantly changing dynamic.

[@kohakuaiko]

@@AmericanDuchess1 my 100.5 year old grandmother is that AA width. I,, unfortunately, am usually a D width when I can find it. I also have very short toes so adding length is a bit troublesome. My mother is a EEE with bonespurs on her instep. Shoes are a trial in our family.

[@sarahmwalsh]

@@AmericanDuchess1 I was going to say, shoes sound an awful lot like corstetry the way Nicole explains it!!

[@roisefrasure2330]

@@AmericanDuchess1 My Grandmother (born 1903) swore that she wore a size 6, but always complained about her feet. She would not even try a shoe if it said size 7, so we started with house shoes and removed evidence of size. By time she died in her 90' she loved her house shoes, never wore anything unless she had to go out and always had swollen feet. Her size was the same as her daughter born in 1927, her granddaughter born in 1963, and her great granddaughter born in 1980, all size 8.

[@JohnGottschalk]

I've found researching shoes, that men's shoes are generally wider than women's of the same length. So if you're having trouble finding the right width to length, perhaps that's a way to find things that fit more comfortably (although you'll have to live with the styles on offer).

[@107926]

Love love. I have wide, flat feet and narrow heels and choosing comfortable heels is so difficult for me. So happy you shared that there are options like inserts and stretching to accommodate individual feet shapes

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lidewij4263]

You might find it interesting to look into pointe shoe making and fitting! Or dance shoe making in general! Pointe shoe makers and fitters are trained in all the finicky ways feet work and this video reminded me of that!

[@MommyDontSeeMe]

Such good information! As I’m usually barefoot at home, plus my feet really widened in pregnancy, but my heel is narrow, I have a time finding a great fit. Thanks for showing options for padding to give a better outcome.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Glad it was helpful!

[@kiera_rdh6697]

This was so helpful! Especially about how feet change when you actually stand on them. After your explanation I feel like I have a “squishy” foot, where my arch seems very high when I’m sitting down but it flattens and almost collapses when I’m standing. I almost always need arch support, mostly for my ankles because of the collapsing issue. Thank you so much!

[@SingingSealRiana]

Me feet look very flat because they are so wide in the front, but taking my footprint shows a very high ark... Feet are weird, another care where the of the rack culture we have around wearable messes up a lot

[@brooke_reiverrose2949]

SUCH a great video! So informative, thank you! Only wish AD sold wide widths. You might get a B to stretch to a D, but I’m something like 5E, apparently.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Thanks for watching!

[@aubreyackermann8432]

They've announced they're going to go a bunch of D width shoes this next production run

[@jackieneedsmoresleep5872]

This is a great video! Knowing all this actually makes me feel better about my shoe size. I am a womens size 11 but also have quite wide feet. It’s already a struggle to find shoes long enough in size 11, but usually even when they are available, they are narrow. It’s mortifying to be trying on shoes with no success, not understanding why, and then have sales associates say “sorry, we just dont have any shoes that big.” So even though this information doesnt necessarily fix what’s available on the market, it does make me feel less insecure and like my feet are weird. Obviously everyone is different, but i never knew just HOW different! And these tips will certainly be useful when purchasing shoes from now on, having options on trying to make them work for me, rather than giving up on ever finding a pair.

[@New_Wave_Nancy]

Thank you so much! I have a terrible time finding shoes that fit and feel comfortable. I'm sure this info will help me figure out what works for me.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lestellefae1739]

This was very helpful! I just got my first pair of American duchess in today and I tried them on and they felt quite tight in my toes. However after watching this and l looking at the design materials, I realized that it's actually good as they will give. I also do walk around my house barefoot a lot so putting on boots are always tight for the first couple minutes. Thank you!

[@maryblaylock6545]

Fantastic! It certainly explains why I can't wear certain styles. I used a bread sack with dry beans in it, moistened the inside of my boots a tad, put the sack of beans into the boot, and added water to the beans. Worked like a charm!

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Cool method!

[@khimbalee5087]

Just found this fantastic video - so many questions answered, information I haven’t found anywhere else. A public service, thank you!

[@volvacations2186]

I wish you had talked about pronation and supination. I walk on the :outsides" of my feet and have to buy special running shoes so they will be supported.

[@karenduncan7heartmender]

This is the first time that I have seen you and it was very informative. When I found out that you sold shoes, I went right to your website. I saw beautifully well-made shoes, but to my dismay, they stop at 12. I wear a 13. :(

[@kat1984]

I've been struggling with shoes for years. Sandals and heels have always torn up my pinky toes and heels, I get cuts and blisters. I've tried sizing up and down without success.

[@lauren8984]

Thank you for posting this! I really want to treat myself to a pair of your shoes for my birthday next month. I will definitely use this video as a guide for the size I will purchase.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Excellent, and Happy Birthday!

[@lauren8984]

@@AmericanDuchess1 Thank you! I have been wanting this pair of shoes since last year and I feel now is the best time to buy them. Stay well, you guys.

[@KateandBree]

When she talks about my narrow heels and wide, flexible joints with high arches. 😂 Mary Janes are my nemesis.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

we hear that!

[@phoenixsky1264]

Depite the fact that my feet have stopped growing at a size that is unfortunately too small for any American Duchess shoes (a great tragedy), this video was unexpectedly extremely informative and helpful!

[@jenniferseale1128]

That was likely the most helpful video I've ever watched. I've probably been wearing the wrong size shoe my whole life. Thank you!

[@MDaggatt]

This make so much sense! Shoe sizes are not just length. While the length of my foot says that I should wear a size 2, because I have such wide feet, high arches, and feet that spread out a lot, I actively wear a size 5, and can at most go down to a 3.5.

[@brennathompson1855]

This is so helpful! I have narrow feet with high arches and a low instep. When I buy shoes that fit length-wise, my feet area always swimming in free space. My previous solution was finding brands that run narrow and buying boy's shoes with a smaller vertical area, but I'll see if a crazy amount of padding works better. Sadly, few companies produce narrow-width shoes anymore. My grandmother (whose feet I inherited) never had problems buying shoes when she was young, but in her old age bemoaned that there was now only one store in her hometown which sold narrow-width shoes, while wide-width was available everywhere.

[@misstanyamae]

I am also part of the narrow foot club. I saw AD comment in another thread that the average width is increasing, which is well and good... but us narrow feet people still exist and are totally valid. And I have never had a tight shoe in my life, so if my feet were going to expand width-wise at all, they would have. (The minimal shoe/barefoot trend also hit in my teens, and I adopted it and have worn minimal shoes more than half my life. Before that, I was a kid being sized up so I'd have room to grow into shoes... but grow I did not do much of.) So anyway, my personal preference is to have a shoe that can be stretched over padded, for the reasons mentioned--the friction and abrasions--along with trying to get the padding just right. Anyway, excited for my AD order to get here!

[@WitchyUmeko]

i first learnt about American Duchess when i was watching Bernadette Banner's videos and i fell in love with them but i wasn't committed enough and couldn't afford a pair that time, recently i decided to dump out all the unused and plastic shoes and clothes and committed enough that i finally got a pair for myself (and hopefully receiving soon) and is very excited but as my feet is very unique i'm also scared that the shoes will not fit my very strange feet. this video is so good for me to get the shoes to fit me 👍👍👍

[@melissamybubbles6139]

I have wide, collapsing arches and flexible tendons. There are limited shoe options for me. I'm grateful to have moved to a town with some great people who can fit me well. They tend to use the term straight last with me. I just thought it meant less flexible, not that it isn't a right/left setup. It makes such a difference. I've wondered how to do historical dress, since those shoes don't tend to look supportive. My feet also get cold easily so shoes that expose lots of the foot are less appealing, but tend to be considered more feminine.

[@mnels5214]

I had no idea about any of this, thank you so much! Hands down the most useful video I've seen in quarantine.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Glad it was helpful!

[@HoneyBear36]

I just got my Daphne shoes my heel does slip a little in the back so I’ll have to see if I can get the heel pads and maybe a pad for the ball of my foot to keep everything in place. This was so helpful and I am determined to make these babies work!

[@TheJulieGallagher]

So helpful! Many times I've passed up on shoes I liked because they didn't come in a wide width. Now I know how I can make it work!

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Happy to help!

[@StacyAdair-Hixson]

This is some great information. I think I’ll just stick to my round toes when possible. It’s just easier that way.

[@bridgetthewench]

This was so informative! I have a wide joint and a high arch, so shoes are a struggle.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

glad you found it useful!

[@taraloche5578]

As someone who is disabled (flat footed and having a corrected left club foot) but mobile this was very interesting, thank you for sharing!

[@cheerssteph]

This is incredibly helpful

[@rebeccaaugustine8628]

Looking forward to getting my Lilith T-straps!

[@marthaschwartz5031]

Shoes used to be available in combination lasts: narrow heel (A, AA, or AAA width) and B width ball of foot. My mother wore them; the brand was Red Cross.

[@33goodwitch]

Thank you, thank you,thank you, I have so many issues with shoes fitting and being comfortable. This video helped me to understand what it is that makes most shoes not fit my feet and gives me hope that I can get some American Duchess shoes and have them fit :) yay for streatching!!

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Izik8890]

This was the most informative source I have seen! And I have been in the topic for quite some time - even men's barefoot shoes in my size are often too narrow in the joint. Now I am armed with a lot of information! I will also attempt to make shoes for myself - now I feel more confident - I know there is a chance to make them fit even if they are not perfect. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!

[@Textile_Courtesan]

I've been waiting for this video for years! Thank you!

[@AmericanDuchess1]

You're very welcome!

[@annasarajane]

seriously revolutionary information!!! Thank you!

[@tiffanyr9975]

Omg! Foot sliding forward and toes getting squished (the proportion issue) is exactly my struggle!! Ive had toebox inserts in my shopping cart for a long time; looks like it could be time to go ahead and buy a pack to help the fit of my shoes!

[@SkipperJane]

As someone with both high arches and high instep (ask me about buying ski boots!), I really appreciated this.

[@nickyclarer]

Yep shoe fitting is complicated! I usually wear custom insole because my feet roll inwards too much so am always looking our for a slightly deeper shoe... But I also have fairly narrow feet, long toes, and half a size difference between left and right (very common I know). I love my Claire Oxfords but I probably should have ordered half a size up because they get a bit uncomfortable on my bigger foot if I wear them too many days consecutively.

[@petawatson5120]

Yeah, one foot a size bigger than the other is frustrating. Not many places are happy to sell a mismatched pair.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Have a go at stretching the Claires for your bigger foot. It can make such a huge different. We're just waiting on shipping for our shoe stretchers, so they're not available quite yet, but we have the shoe stretch spray in the Accessories section at AmericanDuchess.com now

[@lilyes1342]

Aww man, I wish I would have watched this before ordering. I hope they fit.

[@elisabethm9655]

This is the first time I’ve seen a video about shoe fit be so helpful and informative - the subject is incredibly important. Thank you, thank you and THANK YOU!

[@jenniferandrew3373]

My 11A flat feet thank you for a really informative video. I basically stick with lace ups or Mary Janes because it's just easier than finding a shoe I don't slip right out of.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Yes, step-ins/pumps/slip-ons can be such a challenge, especially for those with narrow heels. Lace-ups and mary-janes or t-straps really help hold the foot in position.

[@patriciaburr4826]

Yes. I always walk out of my shoes. Tried heel pads but they come right out of the shoe as I walk. Of course I am in florida so mostly flip flops and sneakers for me. Even those are mostly lace ups although I did find some vio ic slip ons that are quite comfy. I have bunion on left foot. Wide width too but flatter feet.

[@trenae77]

Best experience I ever had in buying running shoes was at a store called Fleet Feet. They had a machine I stood on and it basically took measurements of all these things discussed. They also did some manual measurements after to make sure things came through right. End result was - I walked out in a pair of shoes that fit good and have lasted me a lot longer than they should (because I keep forgetting to go back!!). Love the video, and thanks so much for the very clear break-down of details!

[@AmericanDuchess1]

We envy stores with that technology! Hope it's more common in the future. It's wonderful to have shoes that well and truly fit!

[@trenae77]

@@AmericanDuchess1 You have no need to envy! After watching your video here, I love that you provide a method that all people can use! While the technology is awesome, the knowledge behind it had to come from somewhere!!

[@humanwithaplaylist]

When ordering shoes from AD, how can we make sure they will fit correctly? I am in new zealand so shipping a wrong measurement shoe back would be very expensive

[@AmericanDuchess1]

We always recommend you order your most common dress shoe size. Unfortunately, because of all the challenges talked about in this video, shoe fit can't be guaranteed (from us or any company). We try our absolute best to provide as much information as we can and to get the sizing right according to international standards

[@humanwithaplaylist]

@@AmericanDuchess1 thank you so much for the reply! I will look into getting a pair at a later date 💚

[@louiselill1528]

Very interesting thank you . If I could afford good shoes I would definitely buy from American Ditches I love the styles 3rd .

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Glad you like them!

[@GoddessNeith]

Their lay away plans are so great. That's how I afford them.

[@Textile_Courtesan]

@@GoddessNeith I didn't know that! Thanks!

[@mollywithak1697]

Thanks for this! I’ve been considering investing in a pair of American Duchess shoes, but have moderately flat feet, which makes a lot of shoes uncomfortable for me

[@eliza7413]

Thank you for the explanation! Also useful for next time I can go out and buy shoes, sometimes I buy shoes and at the time there decent, but when I wear them for a longer time they start being uncomfortable or chafing

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Happy to help!

[@brimstonefondue]

Unfortunately, I've got extra wide feet at the joint because of bunions, and this makes my feet too wide for your shoes even with stretching :( Specialty old lady looking shoes for me.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

:-(

[@lovecats6856]

I have one bunion, and the top of the foot sticks up. So any shoe cannot cut across the bunion or press over the top.

[@FrostyXStitch]

What great information!!! Thank you so much! I now wish I would know why shoes I try on in shoe stores never ever fit me, but when I order them online they do....🤔 Also I seem to have completely different shoe sizes in shops than online 🤷🏻‍♀

[@StephanieCanada]

I wish I would’ve known all of this when I worked in a shoe store! I mean I knew some of this, but the intricacy of the measurements and how it affects the fit. So amazing! Side query: last I checked size 11.5 and 12 were not available, any chance this will change? I love the styles of shoe but after my kid my feet grew.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Glad to be of help! Currently we do not have 11.5 and 12 but we are planning to expand the size range up to 12 in some of our most popular shoes like Kensington

[@StephanieCanada]

@@AmericanDuchess1 oh now THAT is something to be excited for! Thank you!

[@lazybaden8359]

Hit right on the spot.. totally awesome.. she totally understand foot comfort ❤

[@AmericanDuchess1]

indeed! glad it was helpful and/or informative :-)

[@marybianca2722]

I'm looking for the baby doll shoe but with the depth and heel style from the 50's. They were the only shoe in a heel that ever fit and we're comfortable for me.

[@deblawson1575]

Thank You!!!!! This was GREAT. I subscribed, and now I'm a fan.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Awesome! Thank you! and welcome!

[@bconsilio3764]

Makes me so sad that you don’t have wide shoes. I’m an E width. A 1/2 size up isn’t enough width. 😕 Especially with the fact that you really understand the anatomy and physiology of the foot!!

[@craftykez]

Have another look as they now do stock wide fits in some designs.

[@ghastlycreations5627]

I need this video because I always struggle finding a shoe how fit me well I have long feet but they are really thin.

[@mmesuds]

How does one get into shoemaking professionally?

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Apprentice yourself to a master shoemaker or shop and go from there :-)

[@MendyLady]

Can you make a video talking about moving buttons? I got some Tavistocks, and.. my ankles are much more slender than your base shape (at size 11).

[@AmericanDuchess1]

you can find a video right here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aGOkg6uFnbiIeas

[@MendyLady]

@@AmericanDuchess1 oh, excellent, thank you! I did look briefly, but didn't see it.

[@threadsandpurrs]

This was very helpful. I think I will initially go for a larger size and see if I can get it to fit with padding.

[@NTMagpie]

Super interesting - thanks so much for the info, fabulous Ms. Rudolph!!

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Glad it was helpful!

[@CarinRuff]

This is fascinating and so useful! Do you have a link to or recommendation for a particular shoe stretcher like the one you show?

[@AmericanDuchess1]

We're working on stocking those shoe stretchers on our website, but we're just waiting on shipping. In the meantime, Amazon has a selection available.

[@SnowyOtaku]

This is very interesting. I have a difficult time finding shoes that fit comfortably. I love light, flexible shoes that mold to my feet (such as barefoot shoes). However, finding them is very difficult to do because I have narrow, flat feet... so everything is uncomfortably loose or too tight in the toes. I find I do the best with high heels as they are often made for thin feet or boots where there is usually some extra space in the toe and I can tight-lace. I like the idea of the shoe stretcher, would save me the blisters when trying to break in a new pair of shoes.

[@FunnyBunnyHelena]

This is interesting! I have severe problems with buying shoes, so much that I won't even buy online (which is sad because I love your shoes and DO want some some day). I have dainty feet if you look at the outline, maybe even short toes. But I have very high instep, and very high arch. (I can easily slide through 1 cm high stuff below the arch) and that's problem for me. Plus on top of those problems I have to wear orthopedic soles, which add even more height. So I only wear sneakers now. :( Which isn't even good fit because the height of the orthopedic sole is adding much, around 1 cm thickness at heel level so I wear through the shoes quickly, breaking the heel part. If I could afford I would buy quality shoes, or even handmade! But no, alas. So summertime I wear simple open sandals, and then rest of season, sneakers all the time. (my body is like this, small frame, but very thick boned! Very 3d :D)

[@gittevandevelde2208]

OH MY GOD DO WE HAVE THE SAME FEET. I have to wear orthopedic soles for overpronation which add easily 2 cm on the inside of my feet but I have a weird overpronation without flat feet combo (???) + a high arch + narrow feet + a EU 35/UK 3/ US 5 or 5.5 (depends all on exact brand, you get the gist) a very high instep....and just UGH. The few times I've bought online was rahter disappointing because I have very sensitive feetskin and low pain tolerance there so I also can't stand harsh leather edges. Even most chunky orthopedic shoes aren't good because they are too wide, flat and make my very dainty feet & ankles (which are N.A.R.R.O.W.) look insanely weird.

[@FunnyBunnyHelena]

@@gittevandevelde2208 Team f****d up feet. I agree, why are the "good" shoes always so large? It is like having this view that people have WIDE and flat feet. It is ok, they exist too. But WE exist tooooooo. (I also have similar nightmare about my boobs, no bras fits me and I have tried on 50-75+ and 20 different brands haha)

[@sweetpea22000]

This is amazing information. I have only recently started taking better care of my feet with the proper shoes, and it is hard. I have a flat EE width foot with an high instep and shoe shopping is always be interesting. If y'all ever make a Londoner Edwardian Oxfords cherry in wide, I will be your first order. Thank you for sharing this amazing information.

[@kitdubhran2968]

I’m feeling so attacked right now. 😂 I had to size up twice to get a boot that even fit at all in the foot. The ankle/calf still doesn’t quite fit. But that’s something I can fix with stretching and moving buttons. Point being, this is so topical to me right now! And thank you for a fabulous boot! I love them! Even though I can only get three buttons fastened. I can fix that, now that the shoe as a whole fits my weirdly high instep.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

I'm glad we could help! Yes, move those buttons and get those boots fitting. It makes all the difference. We're continually improving fitment, especially in the ankles, so feedback like this helps.

[@kitdubhran2968]

American Duchess yeah, I have a really bizarre small foot with high arches and incredibly big calves/ankles. I’m a size. Idk 8 or so. But my ankle is 11 inches around. The length of my foot is about twice the diameter of my ankle. Makes certain shoes look just ridiculous on me.

[@mokanger97]

I have very wide feet, a high instep and fairly low arch and am a size 42, so I find it very difficult to find shoes that fit. I spent years in very cheap cardboard flats that fell apart quickly because they were the only thing I could get on my feet, even though I spilled out the side and ended up wearing through. I live in Australia, and there is a wonderful company here where all the shoes are designed by a podiatrist and they have lots of different fitting options, so that is where I get all of my shoes from now. I would love to buy American Duchess shoes, I think they're the most beautiful things in the world, but due to the difficulty in shipping and exchanging over huge distances that might not happen for a while.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

yep, podiastrist-designed shoes will always be the best fit

[@lizcademy4809]

Thank you for the anatomy lesson! I learned a lot. Unfortunately, it doesn't help me find shoes that fit. Like several other commenters, I have very wide feet - but mine are also short. I start with size 7EE or EEE (US women's) and adjust from there. I learned today that I have short toes, non-fleshy feet, and high arches, with a normal heel. Hobbit feet! I would love to buy American Duchess shoes, but doubt you'll ever make any that fit me. Instead, if you ever see an older woman in period clothing with Birkenstocks, that's me!

[@AmericanDuchess1]

I'm glad the video could help

[@bripk9598]

I have very tiny and wide feet. With leather shoes specifically I almost always buy for length and just cry until I get them to stretch across the top.

[@OofusTwillip]

I have seriously weird feet. Completely flat, very long, with long toes (2nd toe longer than big toe). And extremely narrow heels (4A). I just got a pair of your Hepburns, and I love the rounded toes, thick Cuban heels (so my loose ankles don't wobble), and the support of the oxford style. The one trouble spot is the usual one for me: the waist of the shoe, where my foot keeps sliding forward, so the shoe cuts in right on the most sensitive part of the super-sensitive bone. My solution is to pad the top of my foot, and pad inside the toe of the shoes, so my feet can't slide forward. Ultimately, I should be getting completely bespoke shoes...but they won't look as nice as those Hepburns.

[@CarniFitMe]

Fabulous tutorial. Absolutely fascinating. Thank you so much.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

glad it was helpful!

[@gittevandevelde2208]

I measured it, and my feet are 20 cm at the joint, 20,3 at the waist, 20,6 at the instep and 22,3 in length. Measured horizontally flat, my ball of the foot is 8,3 cm

[@flamelily1]

This was amazing, I wish I could find someone to look at my feet and tell me what the heck I need to wear. Currently I have blisters on the soles of my damn feet, and can't wear any shoes - never mind fluctuating fluid retention combined with size 10 feet mean I can't find shoes to fit me. So much pain and frustration now, I could scream.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Have you visited a podiatrist? It sounds like it would benefit you in many ways

[@flamelily1]

@@AmericanDuchess1 I shall, thanks :)

[@brooke_reiverrose2949]

Sounds like me with bras. Good luck!

[@Cinderbloom]

as a woman with forefoot collapse, I have to have pretty sizeable inlays in my shoes (we're talking full length, lifting the arch about 3cm off the floor kinda deal). Shopping for shoes is always such an absolute pain, and doing so online is incredibly daunting. Not even sure I could use them for anything with any sort of heel.

[@ABlindMoose]

I have a super high instep. Like... I've never been able to wear Mary-Janes (the straps are *always* too short) or mules (feet literally don't go into the shoe)... I just tried some gorgeous Oxfords from you and... No. Too low. Big sad...😢 But worth trying.

[@rejoyce318]

This was fascinating!

[@isabelhess1510]

This was very informational thanks!

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Glad it was helpful!

[@davidhutchison3343]

The Queen of England actually has a human shoe stretcher. It's a member of the Royal staff who has the same size/style of foot as the Queen, and breaks in the Queens new shoes, so that they are comfortable for the Queen to wear.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

interesting!

[@ellegy22]

This is super informative and helpful! Awesome video :)

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Glad it was helpful!

[@KissMyFrog42]

Excellent and useful information, but how do I try on shoes when they are in America with you, and my feet are here in Australia?

[@Spinsjal]

this is lovely and I learned a few things but I'm still not sure I know what size American Dutchess to order. I'm the minority with very narrow feet.

[@kennashey]

So glad I came across this!!! I've always been a lover of shoes, but hate my feet!! I have short toes, with large big toes and the other toes are smaller as well as having crooked pinkie toes. I also have very flat feet. I go barefoot around the house and sometimes outside as well being over weight. I have a low instep as well. Add in narrow heels, and you'll discover why I don't wear heels or flats. Mostly live in tennis shoes. I regularly buy a 9 1/2 women's, a 9 wide (typically a C width) or stretchy shoes in a 9. Recently I developed plantar fasciitis in the left foot as well as swelling in both feet. What would you recommend for these conditions? I'd really would like to purchase some 18th and 19th century shoes (slippers, walking boots as well as riding boots) but really don't know how to do it without trying on pair after pair...

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Well, luckily all of our shoes are leather and can be stretched. We even have shoe stretchers now, and the shoe stretch spray to accelerate the process. If you normally buy a 9 or 9.5 that's where I recommend you start, but also know that as dress shoes they will and should fit snug all over the foot - not tight and pinching, but a good, close fit, which is very different than tennis shoes.

[@kennashey]

@@AmericanDuchess1 Yeah, I do wear dress shoes for working at the office, and get ones that fit snugly but not tightly (favorites are a cross between an house slipper and a flat, they'll curl up when not on my feet, but look like regular flats when on). Thanks, for the help!!

[@bonniecolleenpappin8807]

Thank you for this very useful information.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Finsirith]

Wow, I learned a lot! I learned that I should just give up and go barefoot..... :)

[@GoddessNeith]

Thank you, this was very helpful.

[@AmericanDuchess1]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lieselemay]

This was awesome. I am getting caught up on the American Duchess stuff. I only found your group last month. I am actually wanting to look into learning how to make shoes. Lasts are soo expensive, though. Any ideas on resources for lasts?

[@AmericanDuchess1]

You might try antique or vintage lasts on eBay or Etsy. Other than that, sourcing lasts from Italy, Mexico, Portugal, Spain, or China might be cheaper

[@lieselemay]

@@AmericanDuchess1 Awesome, Thank you.

[@eric_the_egggremlin]

this video is making me confront an aspect of gender dysphoria I didn't know was in me, also I think I know now why I stopped getting blisters when I started wearing 9.5 instead of just 9W

[@SingingSealRiana]

I am tall and have comparitivly small feet ... But wide feet in the front.... The messurements made so much sense of why shoes never seem to fit me, 9, 9.75, 9.75 for a 9.75 long foot.... There is like only one single model work protections shoes that fits me....

[@Martina_E]

This helped me. I just found I have wide feet for the top part you described. I want some GH bass loafers & Mary Janes. If I go up 1/2 will that help or do I need a shoe stretcher?

[@AmericanDuchess1]

glad it helped! Shoe stretchers are always a good thing to have on hand, even if you don't need to do serious stretching work. For instance, I have a high instep and I use shoe stretchers to gently ease that area on all of my shoes.

[@cfrygirl]

Whoa! This is awesome!!!

[@AmericanDuchess1]

thanks!

[@sabrinal.nelson6714]

Considering how much you know about shoe sizing, it would be lovely if you offered wider width shoes, such as 8 EEE for those of us who adore your shoes but cannot wear them because they're too narrow. Also wondering if you'd ever consider making custom versions of your shoes. I would gladly pay for a genuine AD shoe that actually fit my strange duck feet. Thank you for reading.

[@lesleyharris3198]

Thanks for the great information, yes I've got strange feet, lol

[@AmericanDuchess1]

You and me both!

[@tohrurikku]

I have been to specialist shoe stores and they never took those measurements. I have a hard time finding good shoes. My feet are wide and most stores do not sell wide shoes anymore. Lately I have been buying men's shoes that are too big for my feet. They are perfect for the width but the length is too long and I can not walk too fast in them because of it. My job is on my feet and I want to walk even more for health reasons, but my shoes do not want to keep up and they hurt my feet. They also end up falling apart within a couple of weeks, I get blisters, then they make my feet tender and I dread putting the shoes back on. I need better shoes. I am tempted to get your shoes as I have been hearing good things about them, but they are more for special occasions or office work not for everyday walking and running. It would be nice if more shoe companies take more pride in their work and make shoes better for their customers.

[@dancingkatz]

Thank you so much for making this video! Having this knowledge is going to save my tootsies a lot of pain.