What Size Am I in Italian Heels? The Ultimate Sizing Guide for Women in Australia – So You Never Buy the Wrong Fit Again

Ever bought a stunning pair of Italian heels - only to realize they don’t fit? Italian sizing can feel like a puzzle, especially when converting from Australian sizes. Between narrow fits, leather stretch, and EU size charts, it’s all too easy to end up with the wrong pair.

That’s exactly why we built this ultimate 2025 guide for Australian women. You'll learn:

• How to accurately convert EU to AU sizes
• Why Italian heels fit differently from local brands
• What to do if you have wide feet or are ordering online

I don’t use the word ‘comfortable.’ I use the word ‘wearable.’ Many of my shoes feature straps - not just for aesthetic quality, but to accommodate the reality that no two feet are the same.”
- Marion Parke, former foot surgeon and luxury shoe designer

Why This Blog Exists

Sizing confusion is one of the top reasons women return luxury heels bought online, especially when shopping across AU and EU sizing systems.
This guide exists to remove the guesswork and help you get the perfect Italian fit on your first try.

Why Italian Heels Fit Differently Than Australian Sizes

Yes, Italian heels typically fit smaller and narrower than Australian sizes. They’re crafted on slim lasts with tighter arches and real leather that molds over time. Most Australian women go up half a size when switching to Italian heels, especially in pointed or high-arched styles.

When women in Melbourne or Sydney try Italian heels for the first time, they often ask the same thing:
“Why does this size feel smaller than my usual?”

The answer lies in design philosophy, not just numbers.

Unlike many Australian shoe brands that prioritize general width and cushioning, Italian heels are built for sculpted precision. They're narrower, more form-fitting, and designed to mold to your foot over time. This creates the sleek, elevated silhouette Italian fashion is known for… but it can catch first-time buyers off guard.

How Italian Footwear Is Designed

Italian heels use what’s called a narrow last - the mold around which the shoe is formed. This tends to run:

• Slimmer through the toe box
• Higher in the arch
• With tighter leather around pressure points

It’s not about being “small,” it’s about being tailored. Many premium heels also use real Italian leather, which stretches slightly with wear - unlike synthetic materials in cheaper heels that stay rigid.

Dolci Firme’s leather heels are designed with true EU sizing in mind, meaning the fit is authentic, not vanity-sized.

Common AU-to-EU Fit Surprises

Here’s what catches most Australian shoppers by surprise when switching to Italian sizing:

• Your usual AU 8 may feel like an EU 38.5 or 39, especially in pointed or narrow-toe styles
• Break-in time matters with real leather. The first wear may feel snug, but within 1-2 outings, it softens to your foot
• If you have wider feet, you may need to size up by half or choose styles with block heels or round toes

Buying your first pair of luxury Italian heels isn’t just about picking a number; it’s about understanding the design, the material, and the shape. And once you get it right, you’ll never go back.

Here’s Where Most People Go Wrong…
They assume their Australian size will match perfectly in Italian heels. It rarely does. Most shoppers forget that EU sizing is more precise, and that Italian brands build their heels around narrower, more sculpted lasts. This leads to tight toe boxes, painful arches, and wasted returns - especially if you buy online without reading the fit notes.

AU to EU Conversion Chart: Find Your Italian Heel Size Instantly

Common Conversion Error:
AU to EU sizing isn’t a straight 1:1 swap, even half-size differences can impact comfort. Many returns happen because buyers forget to adjust for pointed toes or don’t account for leather stretch. When in doubt, size up by 0.5 - especially for narrow fits or first-time Italian heel wearers.

Based on SizeChart.com, a widely cited international sizing guide:

• AU 7.5 = EU 38.5
• AU 8 = EU 39
• AU 9 = EU 40

Wondering what size you need when buying Italian heels online?
You’re not alone, one of the most common questions women ask before purchasing luxury shoes is:

“What size am I in EU if I wear AU 8?”

Use this chart to confidently convert your Australian shoe size into the correct Italian heel size, factoring in toe shape, leather stretch, and brand fit.

Dolci Firme uses true EU sizing standards – so this guide applies directly to their full heel collection.

AU to EU Conversion Table (Women’s Heels)

AU Size	EU Size (Standard)	Toe Shape Adjustment	Wide Foot Tip
AU 5	EU 36	Go up 0.5 if pointed	Size up to 37
AU 6	EU 37	True to size	Size up to 37.5
AU 6.5	EU 37.5	Pointed may need 38	Go with 38
AU 7	EU 38	Pointed = 38.5	38.5 recommended
AU 7.5	EU 38.5	May fit 39 in narrow cuts	Try both 38.5/39
AU 8	EU 39	39.5 if narrow toe	39.5 recommended
AU 8.5	EU 39.5	40 for pointed	40 recommended
AU 9	EU 40	True to size or 40.5	40.5 recommended
AU 10	EU 41	Watch narrow toe fit	Size up if needed

Note: Italian leather heels naturally stretch with wear - if in doubt, go for the snugger fit (unless you have wide feet).

What size is EU 37 in Australia?

EU 37 is roughly an AU 6 or 6.5 in women’s heels.
If the heel has a narrow toe or high arch, size up to 37.5 or 38 for better comfort, especially with Italian fits.

Myth vs Truth:
Myth: “If the shoe feels tight, it’s the wrong size.”
Truth: With Italian leather heels, a snug first fit is often ideal. Premium leather molds to your foot, so a slightly tight pair on day one usually becomes your most comfortable pair by week two.

Should You Size Up for Italian Leather Heels?

This paragraph is for you if…
You’ve ever bought heels that looked stunning but left your toes screaming by hour two. Whether you're a bride, a wide-footed shopper, or just tired of sizing roulette, you’ll find clarity (and comfort) here.

Here’s the truth: most women asking “Are Dolci Firme heels true to size?” get this answer - yes, but the perfect fit depends on three things that matter especially for Melbourne shoppers prepping for racing season, weddings or summer events:

1. Heel silhouette & toe shape – Pointed styles like the Amalfi may run snug, especially for longwear events like Spring Racing or city weddings.
2. Your foot width or high instep – If you’ve ever tried heels at Chadstone or on Chapel Street and felt the squeeze, a half-size up in Italian fits can make all the difference.
3. Leather stretch & break-in – Soft Italian leather molds beautifully over time, perfect for buyers visiting our Brighton boutique who want a tailored feel without initial pain.

Pro Tip: Trying both your usual EU size and half-size up in-store is often the best way to lock in long-term comfort.

Here’s where most women go wrong: They assume sizing is consistent across all styles or brands, and end up with a gorgeous heel that feels too tight by the second hour. Italian leather rewards you after the first few wears, but only if you start with the right size.

When Sizing Up Makes Sense

Consider going up half a size if:

• You have wider feet or high insteps
• The shoe has a narrow, pointed toe
• You’re buying a slingback or strappy heel with minimal flexibility
• You’ll wear them for extended hours or events like weddings
  
  

Why True-to-Size May Vary Across Styles

Italian leather heels are crafted with a precision fit. Even within Dolci Firme’s range, different styles can feel slightly different due to:

• Heel height affecting foot angle and pressure
• Toe box design – pointed vs. round creates room variation
• Upper materials – suede molds differently than patent leather

That’s why your “true size” may flex slightly between collections.

What size am I in Italian heels if I wear AU 8?

If you wear an AU 8, you’re most likely a EU 39 in Italian heels.
If the shoe has a pointed toe or narrow fit, consider EU 39.5 for more comfort.

Future Fit Insight (Dolci Firme POV):
As more Australian women invest in fewer, higher-quality wardrobe pieces, sizing precision in luxury heels will become non-negotiable. We predict a rise in made-for-you collections, with flexible fits, softer leathers, and forgiving designs that blend comfort with Italian elegance. The future of luxury footwear isn’t mass-produced — it’s masterfully tailored.

Quick Blog Recap:

Italian heels often feel smaller than Australian sizes because they’re crafted with narrower lasts, higher arches, and sculpted designs. Unlike many Australian brands, Italian heels are made to mold to your foot over time, not feel loose on day one.

Use this general conversion: AU 6 = EU 37, AU 7 = EU 38, AU 8 = EU 39. Opt for a half-size up if you have wide feet or are buying pointed-toe or slingback styles.

Dolci Firme heels follow true EU sizing using premium Italian leather that gently stretches with wear. Always try both your usual size and a half-size up if possible - especially for event or all-day wear.

Wide Feet? Here’s How to Get the Best Fit

What’s the best Italian heel fit for wide feet?
Choose block heels or round-toe Italian styles made with soft, full-grain leather - these allow natural stretch and comfort. Go up half a size if needed and avoid narrow-pointed toes or rigid patent finishes. Brands like Dolci Firme offer wider-fit options ideal for Australian women with broader feet.

It’s not just you - many women around the world experience frustration with narrow luxury heels. In fact, industry research shows that nearly 30% of adults have wide feet, making properly fitting Italian heels a real challenge if you don’t choose wisely.

Italian luxury heels are known for elegance, but for women with wide feet, they can sometimes feel like a painful compromise.

If you’ve ever asked:
“What’s the best Italian heel size for wide feet in Australia?”
You’re not alone - and the solution isn’t just going up a size.

Signs Your Shoes Are Too Narrow

Not sure if your heels are too tight? Look out for these early red flags:

• Toe crowding - toes feel bunched or curled in the toe box
• Vamp pressure - tightness across the top of the foot
• Outer edge overflow - pinky toe spilling over the sole edge
• Immediate numbness or rubbing within 15 minutes of wear

These signs suggest the fit is too narrow - especially common with pointed Italian styles.

Fit Warning for Wide Feet

Don’t assume your usual AU size will translate perfectly in Italian heels. Many styles use a narrow last that can cause toe cramping, blisters, or pressure across the vamp. If you have wide feet, always check for leather flexibility, rounder toe shapes, or size up by 0.5 - especially in pointed or slingback designs.

Real Review, Real Fit Confidence

“Very comfortable shoes at an affordable sale price. The quality is superb, true to size and the girls in the Chapel Street store were welcoming, helpful, cheerful & friendly. I look forward to visiting the lovely store and staff again.”
- Debra (Verified 5-Star Review)

Still deciding on the right size or silhouette?
Explore our curated collection of luxury Italian heels - crafted for elegance, comfort, and all-day wear.
Discover Our Luxury Shoes Collection

Or visit our Google Business Profile for store hours and current Italian Shoe Collections.

The Most Accurate Way to Measure Your Foot at Home

If you're shopping online and wondering,
“What’s the most accurate size guide for buying Italian heels without trying them on?”
- this section has your answer.

Luxury shoes like Dolci Firme’s Italian heels are handcrafted to precise standards. That’s why your sizing should be just as precise. Here’s how to measure at home and feel confident in your fit.

Pro Tip: Measure at the end of the day when your feet are most swollen.

Reference: How to Select Shoe Size: Accurate Foot Measurement - DeCentFoot.com

3-Step Method to Measure Your Foot

You’ll need: A sheet of paper, a ruler, and a pen.

Step 1: Trace your foot
Stand on a piece of paper with your heel against a wall. Trace the outline of your foot, ensuring the pen stays upright.

Step 2: Measure your length
Use a ruler to measure from the back of your heel to the tip of your longest toe. Record the length in centimeters.

Step 3: Match to EU size
Use your measurement to compare with our AU - EU conversion chart above. For most Dolci Firme styles, AU 8 = EU 39 (approx. 25.3 cm).

Pro Tip: Measure both feet - use the longer measurement for sizing.

Mistakes Most People Make

Even high-end shoppers make basic measurement mistakes. Avoid these:

• Measuring at night when feet are swollen
• Wearing socks during measurement
• Using soft tape that curves and skews length
• Guessing based on other brands - Italian lasts differ!

Still unsure? Bring your foot length measurement to any Dolci Firme boutique, our stylists will personally match you to the perfect fit.

Dolci Firme’s Fit Philosophy

When it comes to Italian heels, no two brands fit the same, and Dolci Firme’s sizing philosophy was built with Australian women in mind.

We’ve worked with real customers in our Melbourne boutiques (South Yarra, Armadale and Brighton) to refine the fit of every collection.

• Fit-tested on real customers (not just factory lasts)
• Made from soft, premium-grade Italian leather that adapts to your foot shape
• Designed with heel stability, arch contouring, and break-in comfort as top priorities

“Very comfortable and look great with a dress or jeans… very very happy with my purchase.”
- Olga L. (Verified 5-Star Review)

How Our Sizing Compares to Other Italian Brands

Many Italian luxury brands follow rigid, narrow-last sizing that doesn't accommodate the broader fit profile of Australian women.
Dolci Firme takes a modern approach:

• More forgiving vamp and toe box across core collections
• Consistency across sizes AU 5.5 to AU 10.5 / EU 36-42

Translation? Less second-guessing, more long-term comfort.

Sound familiar?
You finally find the perfect Italian heel online, order your usual EU size… and it arrives too tight, too stiff, or just not wearable. The problem? Most brands design for European foot profiles, not Australian ones. Dolci Firme heels are fit-tested in Melbourne for real-world comfort that doesn’t sacrifice style.

Why Some Styles Stretch More Over Time

All Dolci Firme heels use genuine leather, which means your shoes will stretch subtly over time, but only in ways that enhance comfort, not compromise shape.

• Soft suedes and nappa leathers break in faster
• Patent and croc-embossed styles hold firmer structure
• Slingbacks and strappy styles mold more noticeably around foot curves

Fit Tip: If you’re between sizes, opt for the softer leather finish in your true EU size.

Are Dolci Firme heels true to size?

Yes, most Dolci Firme heels are true to EU sizing, especially round and almond toe designs. For pointed styles, consider sizing up by 0.5 EU for the best comfort.

Still Unsure? In-Store vs Online Fitting

You’ve read the size guide. You’ve seen the chart. But if you’re still debating between sizes, toe shapes, or leather types, here’s how to decide your next step with confidence.

Whether you visit our boutique or order online, Dolci Firme makes sure you get a flawless fit either way.

Visit Us In-Store at South Yarra or Brighton

Prefer to try before you buy? Step into one of our Melbourne boutiques to explore the full Dolci Firme collection in person.

Slip on your favourite styles, compare fits across toe shapes and leather finishes, and get a true feel for how Italian heels should wear.

Come visit us in South Yarra, Armadale or Brighton – no appointment needed. Our staff will help you find your perfect pair.

Ready to browse?
Shop our Best Sellers – featuring the most-loved heels designed for women who want elegance without compromise.

“Elegant and beautifully made. Covers the forefoot enough so as to not rub and be comfortable. Bought them in both colours. Very happy with my purchase.”
- Adriana L. (Verified 5-Star Review)

Because in luxury footwear, almost the right size isn’t good enough.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do Italian shoes run small or narrow compared to Australian sizes?

Yes, many Italian heels come in narrow lasts, giving a slimmer fit than Australian brands. They often feel “smaller” not because the size is wrong, but because the toe box and vamp are more sculpted. This is typical of true European craftsmanship, especially in pointed styles.

2. What size is EU 37 in Australian women's heels?

An EU 37 usually fits like an AU 6, or sometimes a 6½ depending on toe shape. It’s not a straight swap - pointed toes or firm leather may feel tighter, and many women size up slightly for comfort.

3. How accurate are AU - EU conversion charts when buying Italian heels?

Conversion charts are useful, especially when they include half-sizes and stylistic fit notes (e.g. “full size up for narrow toes”). But beyond the raw numbers, you still need to factor in heel shape, last, and leather stretch for luxury Italian heels.

4. Should I size up for Italian leather heels if I have wide feet?

Yes, wide-footed buyers often benefit from going up half a size or choosing wider styles. Real Italian leather should break in and mold slightly, but the narrower lasts can feel restrictive initially, especially in strap or pointed designs.

5. Can I accurately measure my foot at home to buy Italian heels online in Australia?

Absolutely. Use the ruler + paper method: trace your foot, measure heel to longest toe, then consult the AU-EU size chart. It’s best done in the evening (when your feet are slightly swollen) and with the socks or sleeves you’ll wear with your heels.

6. If I wear an AU 8, what size should I choose in EU for Italian heels?

AU 8 usually equals EU 39 in standard leather styles. Pointed, narrow, or strappy designs may feel tight in EU 39, so sizing up to EU 39.5 is recommended for high fits or wider toes.

7. Are Dolci Firme heels true to size across all styles?

Yes, most Dolci Firme styles follow authentic EU sizing, with size testing across their range. Styles like Amalfi run true, while narrower styles (e.g. Verona) may feel tighter - so we recommend trying both EU sizes or visiting a boutique for fitting.

8. Do Italian heels stretch over time, or remain rigid?

Luxury Italian leather naturally softens and molds to your foot with wear. Soft nappa and suede break in faster, while patent or croc-embossed styles hold their shape longer. Everything softens subtly, but you should still feel a good fit from the first wear.

About the Author

Bianca Buccheri is the founder and designer behind Dolci Firme, one of Australia’s leading luxury footwear boutiques. With over 20 years of experience in Italian fashion and shoemaking, Bianca brings European elegance and modern Australian sensibility to every collection. From the cobbled streets of Milan to her flagship stores in Melbourne, Bianca’s mission is simple: to empower women with footwear that blends beauty, craftsmanship, and wearability.

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