Women's shoe sizing differs between the UK, US, and EU systems, which can make international shopping less straightforward—particularly when it comes to high heels. Because there is no universal international sizing standard, the same foot length may be labelled differently across brands. Use the chart above as a general reference when converting your size across regions.

Fit may also vary depending on the brand, toe shape, heel height, and shoe width. Pointed-toe pumps and slim stilettos often feel more fitted than open-toe or wider styles. Higher heels also shift more body weight towards the front of the foot, which can make the toe box feel tighter even when the shoe is the correct size. If you have wider feet, choosing a wider fit (where available) may be more effective than sizing up.

A note on Italian sizing

Although Italy uses the European sizing system, many Italian brands—particularly in the luxury and designer segment—are known for fitting slightly smaller or narrower than average, especially in pointed-toe pumps and dress heels. Some shoppers therefore prefer to go up by half a size when buying Italian-made styles, although fit can vary by brand and design.

Why some EU sizes appear as a range

The European sizing system does not always include half sizes in the same way US sizing does, and different brands may use slightly different sizing practices and lasts. That's why a US 8 may correspond to either an EU 38 or EU 39 depending on the brand. If you're between sizes and the style or brand is known to run small—particularly pointed-toe or Italian-made heels—the larger size is often the safer choice.

Sizing can also depend on how a particular style is constructed. If you've ever wondered whether high heels run small, read our guide explaining when to size up and which styles tend to fit more snugly.