This Ankle Strap Is Driving Me Nuts!

Marc Fisher Jericho

Few things can cause more discomfort than an ankle strap. Whether they're too loose, too tight, broken, have a scratchy seam, or they just rub and cause blisters, ankle straps can make or break a shoe. Luckily, there is a lot you can do to save those shoes and make them wearable again!

First, take a look at the shoes you want to fix. Many shoes have ankle straps that are threaded through loops (like the silver Marc Fisher heels pictured to the right). And even though that strap has no buckle, you can still adjust the fit! Below are my favorite ideas to get you started:

1. Take the shoe to a cobbler or shoe repair store to have the strap cut and sewn closer together for a smaller fit or have elastic added in for a looser fit.


2. For the most custom fit every time, cut the strap and remove it completely. Then thread the ribbon of your choice through the exisiting loops and tie a pretty bow. This looks great with evening shoes and ballet flats.


3. If you prefer the clean look of a buckle, try replacing the offending strap with a slim watch strap instead. Watch straps are usually easier to find than an identical replacement shoe strap.

Joe's Kai Sandal

If the ankle strap on the shoes you want to fix does not go through a loop, like the brown and black heels by Joe's pictured to the right, you may have to be slightly more creative, but you still have some options for adjusting the fit:

1. Punch additional holes in the strap for a looser or tighter fit


2. If a decorative element on the strap prevents you from adding additional holes and you need a the strap to be tighter, have a cobbler or shoe repair person sew a piece of flesh-tone elastic on the inside of the strap creating a smaller area for your ankle to fit into when the shoe is buckled. The existing shoe strap will not appear to be tight around your ankle, but the shoe will not flop around so few will notice.


3. If the strap is rubbing or scratching, try adding a cushioned sticker to the offending area like Strappy Strips from Foot Petals.