It takes a certain type of woman to wear ballet heels, and Beyonce is one of those women. Pictured in an ankle high, black patent pair in the promotional images for her album I Am Sasha Fierce, this bootilicious diva carries them off with style and sass.

Wearing just a black leotard with the boots, Beyonce finishes her look with huge drop earrings and sexy gloves.

Ballet heels may look alien to those unfamiliar with them, but they’re one of the sexiest shoes available – particularly for those who have a wicked fetish side.

Designed to force the wearer’s foot forward so that they are in an ‘en pointe’ ballet position with all of the weight resting on the toes, ballet heels are not for the faint of heart. And the higher the heel, the more pressure is put on the toes to get that sleek, pointed position.

Typically, ballet heels boast a stiletto of seven inches, as this has been discovered to be the optimum height. Any shorter and the en pointe position won’t be fully reached, any longer and a platform would be required on the toe of the shoe.

BananaShoes has several different ballet shoe designs for daring divas to choose from. If the ankle high style seen on Beyonce appeals to you then the Pleaser Shoes Ballet 1020 boot is for you. Available in either black leather or black patent leather, these gorgeously sculptural boots lace up at the front so that you can tighten them as tight as you like.

Those who want to go knee high will find patent and matt boots by Pleaser, as well as over the knee boots in both lace up and zip up styles.

If you dare to go thigh high then the Pleaser Shoes Ballet 3020 laces all the way up the thighs for an ultra-sexy look.

As well as the lace up boot styles, Banana has ballet heels in a variety of shoe styles to choose from. Shoes with ankle straps and front lace ups are both available, as well as Mary Jane style shoes in black, red or white.

Whichever style of ballet heels appeals to you, don’t make the mistake of thinking that these shoes are made for walking. Although it is possible for some people to manage a few steps, and it is a skill that can be learnt eventually, beginners to ballet shoes should stick to sitting or lying down wear only.

If you have a really wicked side you might want to experiment with different types of bondage that support your weight while you are en pointe, while you build up your skill and confidence when wearing them.

Of course, for some, the pain that walking in ballet heels causes is part of the appeal. Masochists can enjoy the feelings of discomfort, however, it is still advisable to exercise caution when attempting to wear these beautifully sculptural shoes.

Author's Bio: 

Dulce Islas is a leading fashion writer and blogs about high heels, skirts and dresses.