How to Buy Shoes Online and Get the Size Right

Updated 2026-11-12

Shoe sizes are not the same from brand to brand, and returns take time. A few minutes of measuring before you order saves most of the guesswork.

Measure your feet

Measure in the evening. Feet swell during the day, and evening measurements match how shoes feel when worn.
Stand on a sheet of paper. Mark the heel and the tip of your longest toe, then measure the distance.
Measure both feet. Use the longer one; most people have one foot slightly larger.
Compare with the brand's chart. Use the length in inches or centimeters, not your usual size number.

Width: look for wide or narrow options if you usually need them.
Upper material: leather gives a little; synthetics stay the same.
Owner comments on fit: "runs small" or "runs large" repeated many times is worth acting on.

Try new shoes indoors on a clean floor first, so you can still return them if they rub or pinch.

White knit walking sneakersLightweight white knit sneakers with laces, a pull tab and a thick cushioned sole for long walks.

Black slip-on knit sneakersSock-style slip-on sneakers in breathable black knit with a soft, non-slip sole.

Knit ballet flatsBreathable mesh-knit ballet flats that are soft and flexible enough for walking.

Pointed-toe flats with a knotDressy pointed-toe flats with a twisted knot detail and a cushioned, patterned insole.

Leopard print canvas slip-onsLace-up slip-on canvas shoes in a leopard print with a light, flexible white sole.

Pink linen-look slip-onsSoft linen-look slip-ons in blush pink with white laces and a cushioned sole.

Beige linen loafersBreathable linen-texture loafers with elastic laces, easy to slip on and off.

Black leather slip-on jazz shoesSoft leather slip-ons with elastic side panels and a split sole, made for dance.

Perforated cutout ankle bootiesAnkle booties with perforated sides, V cutouts and a low stacked heel, in black, taupe, grey and tan.

Platform heels with ankle strapFaux suede platform pumps with a chunky high heel and a buckled ankle strap that keeps the foot in place.

Side-zip ankle bootiesClassic ankle booties with a side zip, a pull tab and a low stacked heel for everyday wear.

Ballet flats with a knot bowSoft ballet flats with a knotted bow, a flexible sole that folds and a grippy rubber tread.