I know putting shoes in the freezer might seem strange to many of you, but I’ve sworn by this method for years to make my stilettos a little more comfortable without damaging stretching tools and costly trips to the cobbler. Using this method, you can stretch your shoes out about a half a size overnight – and for about $0.50. All you need is a freezer, 2 ziplock bags and of course…a cute pair of shoes.

For this tutorial, I’ll be using my new Micheal Shannon wedge heels. I fell in love with these the other day while I was looking for a gift at OffBroadway and haven’t stopped thinking about them since. So last night, I gave in and picked them up.

Shiny black leather, a sky high wedge and corsetting along the back of the shoe…I die for these!

So, although these fit fairly well, the problem lies with this pointy little toe that makes these so tight I can barely walk. I didn’t notice it at the store, but this morning when I tried to wear these to work I found myself walking like a chickenhead and had to take them off. Cuz there’s nothing sadder than a 30 year-old chicken head. Except for maybe a 40 year-old chickenhead, but I digress…

To get started, grab two ziplock bags. Though you can use any size you like, I recommend using the regular sandwich bags since they tend to hold just the right amount of water to get the job done.

Fill the bags about 1/3 of the way with water. Make sure to dry the outside of the bags afterward to prevent water from getting into your shoes.

Place the bags into the part of the shoe that needs to be stretched. Since I’m stretching out the toe, I pushed the bags as far into the shoes as I could.

Place shoes in the freezer overnight. I put my shoes in uncovered because they’re brand new, but if you’re doing this with pre-worn shoes I highly suggest putting the shoes in a plastic grocery bag first. You don’t want all that ickiness lingering in the same place you keep your emergency stash of Ben and Jerry’s.

The next morning, take the shoes out and allow them to thaw for about a half hour. Then, put on your shoes and go! If for some reason they’re still a little snug, repeat the process a few more times using just a little more water. If that still doesn’t work, then start looking for your receipt cuz guuuuurl you bought shoes that are way too small!