Picture Perfect Posing (Choosing The Right Posing Heels / Posing Practice) w/ TIPS
You may be wondering what the 411 is on posing heels. How should they look? How high do they need to be? Platform or no platform? Are designs acceptable?
We're here to take the guesswork out of choosing the heels you're going to wear on stage. There are do's and don'ts for what looks good on stage and is acceptable.
First and foremost your heels should be clear. Clear heels give the illusion of an elongated leg. Wearing heels with color stops the leg dramatically and becomes noticeably. With clear heels you keep the judges' attention on what really counts, your amazing physique.
NO high platforms and no color!
Some competitors opt for 4' or 6' (platforms should not exceed 1", you don't want deductions for "clunky" heels). Your walk on stage is more important than heel height! See what 5" heels do for your calves alone. The difference is undeniable!
(4" vs. 5")
Try this:
Stand flat. Look at your calves. Nothing special there. Now, raise your heels halfway. Watch those calves flex. Next stand on your tippy toes, those calves get really tight. Higher heels make for a great looking pair of legs, regardless of height.
TIP: Go .5 size smaller than your regular size to eliminate excess space at the heel of your foot.
Strap or no strap? The style of heels can be chosen at your discretion, just remember to choose a pair that feels comfortable (and makes for a natural confident walk). If you're holding on for dear life, opt for an alternate style! You want to wow the judges with amazing stage presence that exudes confidence (not a fear of falling on your face).
TIP: If you're trying to add length (or have thickness in your legs that you're trying to mask, stay away from ankle straps! Keep is smooth and sleek.
Posing practice is key! There is no such thing as too much practice. Be sure to walk on hard surfaces that resemble the very stage you'll be walking on. Practice your posing with a reliable person (such as your coach or fellow competitor) who will give honest and constructive feedback. If your walk needs some work, you want to know! Practice makes perfect.
Practice every single aspect of your routine including swinging your arms naturally (you don't want to look like a baby dinosaur), head high, and mid-section pulled in tight (yes, you may burn a few extra cals from this)!
TIP: Practice your pivots and turns on carpet. Carpet will provide some resistance and make it more difficult to transition. If you can nail it on caroet, hard surfaces will be a breeze!
Practice every single aspect of your routine including swinging your arms naturally (you don't want to look like a baby dinosaur), head high, and mid-section pulled in tight (yes, you may burn a few extra cals from this)!
TIP: Purchase two pairs of heels. Be sure to break in the pair you'll grace the stage with. Mishaps happen, the second pair will come in handy if a heel or strap breaks. You may stomp around in heels everyday but, you probably don't wear 5" heels. We repeat, break those puppies in!
Think about this! What you would decision be, if you were presented with two very similar body types (both in equally good condition)? Subjectivity comes into play. Pay close attention to the small details. Judges are often times drawn to one competitor over another, without a specific reason. Be polished in everything you do! As you watch other top-level competitors consider this....what captures your attention most of all? Find ways to add this to your very own stage presentation. Uneasiness and stiffness can be spotted a mile way in the audience (imagine how close the judges are).
Quick Tips:
- Clear heels are the way to go! Rhinestones are quite alright in moderation.
- Steer clear of platforms, you don't want a clunky chunky look on stage.
- If possible purchase at least a 5" heel to elongate those legs and maximize your stage presence.
- PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE before hitting the actual stage! Keep your movements fluid and practice those pivots and turns. Leave nothing to chance!
