Second, I only really learned to wear heels in Ukraine. I think something of your grandmother’s generation has remained in the culture. I spent my first week back this January stomping around in rather high-heeled boots. Felt chic and appropriate. And in pain. Looked round and realized that Kiev women have begun to wear flatter, more comfortable footwear and I was torturing myself for nothing!

I think your strategy is our only recourse. That or not wearing them at all – but that’s no fun!