JUST HEEL IT UP (?)
The art of embracing confidence and defying norms through bold, unconventional choices in footwear & life
The first picture of me in boots is from 2004. If you browse my Instagram, you'll see that boots are almost always part of my look. I’ve always loved the click-clack of heels when I walk, though I can’t say my roommates, library-goers, or anyone else always shared my enthusiasm. But don’t we all feel unstoppable in heeled boots? I certainly do.
A pair of high-heeled boots makes me feel like I could conquer the world. Over the years, I’ve built an impressive collection, from electric blue thigh-highs that I never quite figured out how to style (but couldn’t resist buying) to timeless black leather cowboy boots that you can find anywhere and always look great. Quality matters, though—good leather lasts. (Not everything I’ve put them through, though - I’ve worn out a few pairs.)
My good leather boots have walked me through all the moments that unexpectedly shaped who I am. There’s one specific pair that made history, though—I loved them so much I kept repairing them until they decided they were too full of life (and me) to keep going. When did they finally give out? Last December, on my flight to London for New Year’s (because, of course, timing is always immaculate). Those boots got me through all my exams, all my crazy nights out, and even a 14-hour flight to Chile, where I freaked out, wondering what I was doing. But too late to apologize, right? I hiked in them on Easter Island... I could go on forever, but I won’t. Just know this: all my epiphanies, worst heartbreaks, and the process of falling in love with myself and my life? You better believe I had those boots on.
However, I’ve recently noticed how people strongly believe that different types of shoes should serve specific purposes. Walking 20 kilometers in boots is supposedly wrong (but why not?). I recently walked in a conversion last week… a camera seller told a tourist at his shop, “Cameras are like shoes. Different models serve different purposes. Can you go hiking in boots with heels? Yes. Is it advisable? No.” I couldn’t help but smile, thinking, “Of course, I’ve hiked in heeled boots.” It wasn’t by choice but necessity. Would proper hiking shoes have been more comfortable? Yes. Did I have a choice? No. Would I do it again if the alternative was not hiking at all? Absolutely.
Are you avoiding something just because it’s inconvenient? Are you telling yourself you don’t have the right shoes when, in reality, you’re just scared?
Before boarding a plane, I’m often told, “Traveling in boots? Brave.” “Boots take up so much space that it’s better to wear them than pack them.” I usually reply. But honestly, I’m on a flight every other day… does anyone really think I still pack?
People always notice when something is unconventional and feel compelled to ask “why.” But things don’t always need to be practical or socially acceptable to be right. Yes, you can hike in boots. Yes, you can fly in boots. And yes, you can follow your gut, regardless of what the world thinks.
It’s not easy, but in the end, who is responsible for your life? Who will regret not trying harder, not giving it a real shot to follow what you truly want to do? If there’s one thing I believe, it’s this: “You will never regret the things you did, only the ones you didn’t do.” I think you know what I’m talking about, and I know that thing is different for everyone. So, to hell with the shoes you’re wearing (I’d love it if they’re boots). Is it advisable? No. Will you regret it? No.
Jokes aside, I don’t know what your “boots with heels” is, but find the thing that makes you feel powerful, harness that energy, and go after what scares you. As I found in an old diary of mine: “Do the things that scare you the most. Nothing good comes without fear.”
In a world that tries to keep you down, just “heel it up.”
If not now, then when? ;)
Lots of love,
Elena
“Heel it up. Find your “boots”—whatever makes you feel powerful. Harness that energy and go after what scares you.”
