Why can't I walk in high heels (surely it's not just me?)

[SomewhereNow]

They hurt my feet - kill the balls and scrunch up my toes - and I always feel like they're going to fall off unless they have an ankle strap (even the right size). Instead of improving my posture they make me totter - I can't do long graceful steps as I feel like I'll fall over. And don't get me started on trying to negotiate the tube, uneven pavements and the sort of shiny slippery floors you get in posh hotels, stations etc.

Where am I going wrong? I do carry flats whenever possible but there are times when it'd just be nice to look like an elegant grown up instead of a kid dressing up in their Mum's shoes .

start with ankle boots, which can look great with a lower, thicker heel (and you feel much more secure/can actually walk)

That will get you used to it and see how you go - if I wear heels I wear thin heel pointy toed, but mine are never that high - i search for those that look like they are high but are actually more like half way to a kitten heel.
Something like this shape and height - www.dunelondon.com/aisla-mid-heel-pointed-court-shoe-0162509920001143/?cswatch=1

I stopped wearing heels about a decade ago (after spending my 20s in DMs I tried heels in my 30s but I hated them). I work in a smart casual environment so today I had on white loafers, gingham wide legged trousers (like these but navy and white gingham) and a navy loose v-neck linen-cotton mix top from COS. This time of year I wear a lot of loafers with trousers, in the winter I live in brogues and ankle boots which I wear with either trousers or skirts/dresses.

Women on tv who stride about in high heels wear them for literally seconds at a time. The second the shot is completed they will be in slippers or Uggs until the cameras roll again. They also have the advantage that if they stumble or trip they can have a second try - a luxury not available in the real world.

www.aldoshoes.com/uk/en_UK/women/sale/footwear/Coroniti-Blue/p/12646671
I’ve just bought these and can’t believe how comfortable they are!

I can't walk in heels, but I can walk ok in wedges. Like you, I do need some kind of strap to hold my foot in.

copious amounts of alcohol may also help