Summer should be about sunshine, confidence, and feeling good in your own skin - especially for our girls and teens. But for those who need large-size shoes, it can feel like the season of sandals and flip-flops was made for everyone else.
As a mum of a daughter who needs large-size shoes, I’ve felt this first-hand. Shoe shopping isn’t joyful; it’s limited. We go from store to store and get the same answer: “We don't stock your size.” So most of the time, we settle for the single option, if we’re lucky, or men’s shoes. And she’s only a teen.
This post is about supporting girls who need large-size shoes, and supporting you, as a parent or guardian, especially in summer.
1️⃣ Acknowledge the Challenge
Start by naming it, without shame. Girls who need large-size shoes often internalise the idea that something is “wrong” just because their size isn’t widely available.
Let your daughter know this isn’t just her. Lots of girls who need large-size shoes wear UK size 6 + from as young as 9 or 10. It’s normal, natural, and nothing to feel awkward about. The struggle isn’t her body, it’s the market that hasn’t caught up.
2️⃣ Focus on Comfort First
Summer means sandals and light shoes, but these can be a nightmare if your child is wearing something that doesn’t fit properly. Tight or flat shoes can cause discomfort, blisters, or posture problems. Comfortable shoes for growing feet are essential. Look for:
- Foot shape, not just size
- Adjustable straps or supportive backs
- Breathable materials to keep feet cool
- Arch support for developing bones
Get her involved: talk about width, arch height, and how shoes should feel, not just look. (I do this with clothes as well.)
3️⃣ Measure — Don’t Guess
Most of us stop measuring feet after early childhood, but growth doesn’t stop there. Even after 18, feet can change. And a size 9 in one brand may feel totally different in another.
That’s why we created a foot-measuring guide to help girls and teens measure their feet accurately at home. It covers length, width, ball girth, and toe shape — especially helpful for those who need more than just a number.
👉 Download the guide here — it’s free and easy to follow.
4️⃣ Support Style
It’s okay to want pretty shoes. Many teens want shoes that reflect their personality — bright, sporty, subtle, bold. But when you’re stuck in adult or men’s sections due to size, styles can feel a world away. (We’re changing that.)
For now, that might mean searching harder and sticking to simple colours. Ask what she likes and how she’d design her own shoes. What colours make her feel good? What outfit is her “happy place”? Your encouragement goes a long way.
5️⃣ Share Real Stories
It’s one thing to say “you’re not alone.” It’s another to see it. Talk openly about the challenge of finding shoes for girls with larger feet — whether it’s your daughter, your niece, or your younger self.
I had the same problem; UK size 6 or 7 wasn’t available in the children’s section when I was growing up. We’re building a community where girls with large feet feel seen, supported, and celebrated — and you’re already part of that by reading this.
6️⃣ Start with What Feels Good
If nothing fits quite right this summer, don’t let that define her look. Focus on what does make her feel great:
- A favourite outfit
- Painted toenails
- Ankle bracelets or fun socks
- A confident walk
Help her reclaim joy in the season — even if she’s wearing shoes she doesn’t love. Her confidence is bigger than any shoe.
7️⃣ Help Shape What’s Coming Next
We know the struggle — because we’ve lived it. That’s why Lofty Little Boutique was born: to design shoes that actually fit the girls and teens that brands have forgotten.
- 👉 Join our Measure Your Feet Campaign
- 👉 Send your measurements and sign up for the Feet Squad
- 👉 Help us build the shoes your daughter deserves
Final Thoughts
Summer should feel easy, not frustrating. And while finding the right shoes might still take some effort, there’s strength in knowing your daughter isn’t alone, and better things are on the way.
With the right support, education, and a bit of style confidence, girls who need large-size shoes can step into summer feeling seen, comfortable, and unstoppable.
🌼 Confidence booster & affirmation: “You are growing exactly as you should, your strength, your height, your feet, all of you belongs.”
With love,
Vanessa
Founder, Lofty Little Boutique
Mum to a girl with UK size 9.5 feet (EU 43–44) - who deserves shoes her size.