Meaning of "Stilettos" by Kelsea Ballerini

"Stilettos" is a song about finding strength after heartbreak. The lyrics depict a narrator who refuses to let her pain define her, instead choosing to wear it like stilettos. Stilettos are known for their elegance and power, and by comparing her pain to this type of shoe, the narrator showcases her ability to incorporate her hurt into her identity without letting it break her. She talks about putting on a show and fronting like everything is fine, emphasizing the importance of projecting strength and resilience in a world that can be rough and unforgiving. The lyrics suggest that the narrator has learned from the experience of being burned and has developed a tough exterior as a result. The repeated line "when you get burned, you learn to be strong" encapsulates the theme of the song and highlights the empowerment that can come from overcoming pain. By wearing her pain like stilettos, the narrator demonstrates her ability to showcase strength and resilience even in the face of heartbreak. The song encourages listeners to embrace their pain and use it as a source of strength and growth.