Never underestimate a great pair of heels. It's a shortcut to chic and—dickeys and blazers aside—one of our favorite power moves to level up a look. Consider the most basic of outfits: T-shirt and jeans. Swap flats for stilettos, and your whole look (and mood) shifts. You stand a little taller, you walk with more confidence...
Here, everything you need to know about the different types of heels—plus, how to style each one.
With their slender silhouette and low one- to two-inch height, kitten heels offer subtle lift with serious comfort. No rolled ankles, no tripping hazards—they're as polished as they are practical.
When it comes to styling them, skip the sweeping hemlines. Kitten heels look best when the ankle is exposed, so opt for midi silhouettes, cropped denim, capri pants, or Bermuda shorts. For something more feminine, opt for a streamlined LBD.
Sitting between two and three inches, mid-height heels strike the perfect balance—high enough to make an impact, low enough for all-day ease. Whether in sleek leather, rich suede, or statement-making finishes, they’re a timeless addition to any wardrobe—and an effortless alternative to sky-high stilettos.
Proportion is key when styling: Mid-height heels pair especially well with minis, knee-grazing silhouettes, and flowing midis, creating a long, balanced line.
The exclamation point of accessories. At three inches and above, high heels lengthen the legs and add instant polish to any look. Worried about the comfort factor? A wider heel offers more stability, while a lower pitch (the slope from heel to toe) reduces strain. A cushioned footbed can make all the difference.
When it comes to hemlines, high heels work with just about everything—from mini to midi and maxi. They elevate denim and daytime separates with ease, and pair just as seamlessly with sharp tailoring for work or evening.
Looking for extra height without sacrificing comfort? Platform heels offer the best of both worlds. Designed with a thick front sole that reduces the steepness of the heel, they're far more wearable than they look. Whether in lightweight cork, smooth leather, or metallic finishes, they make a statement from day to night.
Platform heels pair especially well with either mini hemlines (and bare legs) or sweeping maxis and wide-leg silhouettes, which balance their bold proportions. Hemlines that hit around the knee or mid-calf can sometimes compete with the shoe, creating a less balanced silhouette.
Named after a dagger with a long, slender blade, the stiletto is the ultimate statement heel. Its sleek, narrow silhouette adds polish to everything from denim to tailoring and evening dresses.For maximum versatility, opt for a classic pair in black or nude you'll reach for again and again.
Prefer something steadier than the stiletto? Meet the cone heel, which takes on a more triangular shape—wide at the top, narrow at the base.Its sculptural silhouette gives it a distinctly modern feel. Even a simple uniform of straight-leg jeans and a button-down feels more considered with a cone-heeled bootie.
If comfort is your number one priority, go for the block heel.The wide, sturdy base distributes weight more evenly, making it a smart choice for long days on your feet.Headed to an outdoor wedding or garden party? A block-heel sandal—paired with a midi floral dress—means no sinking into the grass. Just remember: the broader the heel, the better the support.
Flared heels are defined by a narrow top that widens into a sculptural, bell-like base. Depending on the shape, they can feel subtle or statement-making, while adding an unexpected touch to any look. Pair them with long, draped dresses or fluid tailoring that lets the distinctive heel stand out.
The wedge is a warm-weather staple. Defined by a continuous sole that connects the heel to the toe—filling the typical arch area—it supports the entire foot for comfort and stability. Available in everything from smooth leather to natural textures like raffia, wedge heels pair effortlessly with dresses, denim, and vacation-ready looks alike.
More effortless than a pump, more polished than a sandal. Slingbacks feature an open back with a single strap that rises from the side and wraps behind the heel. Worn with a sheath, a midi dress, or a cashmere sweater and trousers, the silhouette feels decidedly refined and elegant.
A timeless classic. The traditional pump is a streamlined silhouette with a low-cut vamp and clean, elegant lines.There are variations, of course, and it's the details that make all the difference—pointed toes elongate the leg, almond and round toes soften the look, while square toes offer a more modern feel. Looking for something a little more distinctive? Consider a sculptural heel or a D'Orsay silhouette with cutaway sides. Ever versatile, pumps pair well with dresses, tailoring, denim, and shorts alike.
As the name suggests, these heels boast a single strap that encircles the ankle; a buckle allows for an adjustable fit. The effect is both flattering and functional: the strap elegantly frames the ankle and keeps the shoe locked in place for long days and long nights. One variation is the T-strap, which adds a vertical band running down the front from the ankle strap to the toe—hence the T shape. Pair with shorter hemlines—the better to show off the silhouette. We especially love it with a shorts suit for a feminine contrast to sharp tailoring.
Heeled sandals are one of the most versatile categories of footwear. Defined by straps and an open toe, the lineup includes everything from single- or double-band slides to barely-there strappy silhouettes and luxe takes on the classic flip-flop. For day, wear a pair in braided raffia with an effortless matching set. For evening, opt for metallic finishes, embellished details, or both.
An elevated take on the slip-on-and-go shoe. Backless with either a closed or open toe, heeled mules are effortless by nature—great with relaxed denim or longline shorts for easy weekend outings. But the look isn't limited to off-duty dressing. For something more polished, opt for a pointed-toe mule with a stiletto heel in suede or croc-embossed leather. Styled with a sleek dress and blazer, it transitions from desk to drinks with ease.
Mary Janes have come a long way since the shiny patent pairs of our childhood. Today's versions keep the defining details—a closed toe, a low vamp, and the signature strap across the instep—but update the silhouette with bold materials, modern toe shapes, and every heel imaginable. For summer, lean into their playful side with an eyelet set. Come fall, play up the prep vibe with plaid. Prefer jeans? Go wide- or straight-leg, with a slightly cropped hem.
The cold-weather essential. Few items signal the shift into—and excitement of—fall dressing like a great pair of boots.Its defining feature: the shaft, a structured upper that rises beyond the foot, reaching the calf, knee, or mid-thigh; on a bootie, it extends just above the ankle.With so many silhouettes to choose from, there's a pair for every mood. Slouchy or Western-inspired styles channel an effortless feel, while a Chelsea boot boasts wear-everywhere versatility. For a dressier option, opt for a pointed-toe stiletto or kitten-heel boot.