Natalie Glebova, winner of Miss Universe 2005 has mastered the art of walking like a pro in high heels. Here, she shares her secrets to sashaying in stilettos in an excerpt from Universal Beauty: The Miss Universe Guide to Beauty (Rutledge Hill Press).

Aside from the sash and crown, the mark of a genuine Miss Universe boils down to one question: How does she do in heels? Natalie Glebova does quite well, thank you very much. Before winning her title, she glided across the stage in four-inch stilettos as the hem of her evening gown swirled precariously around her feet. Meanwhile, the millions of women watching at home were eyeing Natalie's feet with a combination of awe and envy, asking, "How does she do it?" No doubt, a fabulous pair of heels can make a ho-hum set of legs look longer, leaner and more elegant — assuming, that is, you know how to wear them.

Find comfortable shoes

It doesn't matter how low or high the heel is — if the shoes don't fit properly, you'll be a hobbling mess. Rather than going for the skyscraper-high heels, consider a two-inch lift — you'll still get height, but you'll wreak far less havoc on your feet. And be sure to take several laps around the shoe store — preferably on uncarpeted ground — before purchasing the shoes.