27 Different Kinds of High Heels & How to Style Them

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Learn all the heels names (plus, which occasions to wear them to)
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Heels are a timeless fashion staple, perfect for adding drama to any look. But browse the heels section of your favorite shoe store, and you’ll quickly realize there’s more to these shoes than you’d think. A heel’s shape, height, style, and toe shape all determine what kind of shoe it is. Keep reading for a complete guide to the different types of high heels—plus, how to style them. We even spoke to professional stylists for their expert insight on all things high heels.

What are the different types of heels?

There are many types of heels, divided by heel shape, toe shape, height, and style. Heel shapes include stiletto, block, platform, cone, and spool heels. The shortest heels are kitten heels, while mid-height heels are the most common. Some classic heel styles are pumps, slingbacks, and D’Orsays.

Section 1 of 6:

Types of High Heel Shapes

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  1. Stiletto heels are named after an Italian dagger with a slender, pointed blade. Since the stiletto style refers to the heel shape and not its height, they can range from 1 to 5 inches (2.5 to 12.7 cm), but they tend to be on the taller side. For a shoe to be a stiletto, the heel itself must be narrower at the bottom tip. [1]
  2. 2
    Block Heels A block heel is a heel that’s chunky and usually square. Block heels give you the glamorous height of the stiletto with the addition of stability and support. They reached peak popularity in the ‘70s, but continue to trend every few years. [2]
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  3. 3
    Platform Heels Platform heels have a block heel and a raised sole at the toe of the shoe. [3] Because they’re raised in the front and back, they offer extra height without forcing your foot to bend down uncomfortably. Similar to classic block heels, platform shoes were popular in the ‘70s. Today, they’ve become a signature of pop artists like Sabrina Carpenter. [4]
  4. 4
    Cone Heels A cone heel is just what the name suggests: a triangular heel shape that’s wide on top and narrow at the bottom, similar to a skinny ice cream cone. Cone heels are usually between 3 to 5 inches (7.6 to 12.7 cm), but their triangular shape makes them slightly more supportive and comfortable than a stiletto. [5]
  5. 5
    Wedge Heels Wedge heels feature one continuous wedge piece as the sole and heel. Salvatore Ferragamo pioneered the modern wedge shoe in the 1930s. [6] While you might wobble on towering wedges the first time you wear them, they’re surprisingly supportive because of their solid base. [7]
    • Some wedges are similar to platforms, raised from heel to toe, while others feature a raised wedge heel and a flat toe.
    • Wedges are the most comfortable heel available, says stylist Susan Kim. “Since they have a high platform, it doesn't give you that feeling of literally standing on 3 to 5 inches” like a stiletto, she explains.
  6. 6
    Spool Heels The spool heel , also known as the Louis heel, the French heel, and the Pompadour heel, is one of the oldest heel shapes. Spool heels have an hourglass shape, curving inward at the middle and flaring at the top and bottom. [8] They’re named after King Louis XIV of France and his mistress, Madame Pompadour, both of whom wore the distinctive heel often in their lifetimes. [9]
  7. 7
    Sculptural Heels Sculptural heels don’t have one specific look. Rather, they feature heel shapes that are usually objects or elaborate sculptural designs. Examples of sculptural heel designs include hearts , spheres , and wavy lines. [10] They’re also known as decorative heels or novelty heels because of their ornamental baubles.
  8. 8
    Flared Heels A flared heel is thin at the top and flared at the bottom—essentially, the opposite of a cone heel. It can be thick and chunky or slim like a stiletto. [11] The heel’s wide base gives you extra support, while its curved silhouette feels playful and fun compared to the more mature vibes of a straight heel.
  9. 9
    Cuban Heels A Cuban heel is most often seen on boots. It’s a short, blocky heel that has a straight inward edge and a slightly curved back edge. Male dancers wear Cuban heel shoes in flamenco and Latin ballroom dancing. The style is also associated with ‘60s and ‘70s rockers like The Rolling Stones. [12]
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Section 2 of 6:

Types of Heel Heights

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  1. 1
    Kitten Heels Kitten heels are a specific type of low shoes, ranging from 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5.1 cm) in height. They typically have a stiletto heel shape. While they were created as training shoes for girls who weren’t ready for high heels, they’re now worn by people of every age. Their smart appearance is associated with the style of the 1950s, the decade they emerged. [13]
  2. 2
    Low Heels Low heels are around the same range as kitten heels, averaging 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5.1 cm) in height. Because they’re so short, they barely strain the foot, making them a popular choice for everyday wear. If you’re tall and want to wear heels without gaining too much height, a low heel is ideal. [14]
  3. 3
    Mid Heels Mid heels , also called medium heels, are heels that fall between 2 inches (5.1 cm) and 3 inches (7.6 cm). They give you more height than a kitten or low heel, but don’t quite meet the threshold for high-heel status. Mid heels are the most common and classic height, suitable for most dressy occasions—as long as the dress code isn’t formal, which calls for a higher heel. [15]
  4. 4
    High Heels High heels are between 3 to 4 inches (7.6 to 10.2 cm). They’re best for dressy, formal occasions—but think about how long you’ll have to stand in them before you go for a pair. [16] Consider practicing walking in your high heels ahead of time so you’re used to how they feel.
    • Fit goes a long way in terms of comfort and balance. Make sure you’re wearing the right size heel for your feet. Consult a footwear professional if you’re unsure—they can help you measure your feet to find your size.
  5. 5
    Ultra High Heels Any heels about 4 inches (10 cm) get the designation of ultrahigh (or very high). They usually feature a platform toe to avoid overextending your foot when you wear them. Because these are the most difficult heels to walk in, reserve them for occasions where you’ll spend most of your time sitting. Or, bring another pair to switch into after an hour. [17]
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Section 3 of 6:

Types of Heel Styles

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  1. Pumps are closed-toe heels with a low-cut front. This front part is called a “vamp” in shoe terminology. They tend to be around 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) tall. Their name is thought to come from “pomp,” referring to their sophisticated, showy look. In British English, they’re called court shoes. [18]
  2. 2
    Slingback Heels You’ve probably worn a pair of slingback heels without even knowing it. The popular style features an open back that exposes the heel, along with a strap that sits around the back of the heel to keep your foot secure. Some slingbacks have buckle straps so you can adjust them for the best possible fit. [19]
  3. 3
    T-Strap Heels This popular style features a T-shaped strap down the front of the foot for a chic design and extra stability while wearing. Mary Jane heels often have thick T-straps. [20]
  4. 4
    D’Orsay Heels A D’Orsay heel covers the heel and front of the toes while exposing one or both sides of the foot. [21] The style has its origins in the French military, as Count Alfred D’Orsay requested a pair to accommodate his wide feet. [22] While the shoe’s unique design makes for a sexy silhouette, it isn’t the most secure, making it best for short-term wear.
  5. 5
    Espadrille Heels In the summertime, espadrille heels and wedges are everywhere. Their distinctive woven heel and canvas upper create an earthy, casual feel, while their height makes them a classy alternative to flip-flops. [23]
  6. 6
    Heeled Sandals Like regular sandals, heeled sandals feature one or more straps—usually over the toes and around the base of the ankle. Heeled sandals come in a variety of heights, heel shapes, and details, from chunky block heels to strappy stiletto gladiators . They’re a great choice for summer events. [24]
  7. 7
    Heeled Boots From ankle boots to dramatic thigh-highs, many boot styles feature a raised heel for added height and style. [25] Ankle boots rise to just above the ankle and look great with boot-cut jeans. Heeled thigh-high boots are perfect for wearing with minidresses or short skirts. [26]
  8. 8
    Heelless Heels One of the boldest kinds of heels doesn’t have a heel at all: the seemingly gravity-defying heelless heel . Appearing on runways before making their way to consumers, heelless heels make a bold, high-fashion statement. They’re also incredibly hard to walk in, with even trained models taking a tumble in them. [27] You’ll have to decide if the look is worth the risk.
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Section 4 of 6:

Types of Toe Shapes on High Heels

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  1. 1
    Round Toe A round-toe heel is curved at the toe, allowing maximum support. No need to worry about your foot slipping down like you might with an open-toe shoe. This style is common on pumps and kitten heels, especially those with suede, leather, or velvet canvases. [28]
  2. 2
    Square Toe The square toe is a modern, geometric design that offers your toes more wiggle room than a round or pointed toe. It features a boxy, square-shaped toe and sides that angle outward toward the back of the shoe. It’s common on a variety of heel styles, from sandals and mules to platforms. [29]
  3. 3
    Almond Toe While a pointed-toe heel is strictly triangular, an almond toe heel has a rounder point resembling the shape of its namesake. If you find rounded-toe heels too confining and pointed-toe heels too painful, consider an almond toe for a happy medium. [30]
  4. 4
    Pointed Toe Heels with a pointed toe have a triangular silhouette that ends in a point. While they might squish your toes a little, the design visually lengthens your legs to help you look taller. Plus, there’s something undeniably elegant about pointed-toe heels. [31]
  5. 5
    Peep Toe A peep-toe heel features a strap that covers most of your toes. The big toe and second toe “peep” through at the very front of the shoe, hence the name. [32] It’s a more conservative version of the open toe, a style that exposes all of the toes. Peep toes offer ventilation, which is good during warmer months so your feet can breathe.
    • Open-toe heels expose all of your toes. It’s the most common toe type for heeled sandals and can be rounded, pointed, almond, or square in shape.
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Section 5 of 6:

Styling Heels by Occasion or Outfit

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  1. Choose a 1 to 3 inches (2.5 to 7.6 cm) heel to dress up a look without sacrificing comfort. Beyond height, certain styles are considered more casual than others, including block heels, wedges, and kitten pumps. [33] Stick to neutral colors like tan, white, or black, depending on your outfit—save the sparkly stilettos for nights out.
  2. 2
    Wear slender high heels for formal or evening occasions. If you’re attending a formal or semi-formal event like a wedding or corporate dinner, pick a heel that’s at least 3 inches (7.6 cm) in height. A stiletto is the standard choice, but you may find that a slim spool heel or a slingback style is also appropriate. The style of the shoe plays a part in determining its formality—look for sleek, simple designs. [34]
    • While it’s common to buy a new pair of heels for an event, be sure to break them in so they’re not too uncomfortable on the big day.
  3. 3
    Embrace heeled sandals in spring and summer. When the temperatures rise, ventilated heels keep your feet from feeling sweaty and suffocated. Enter heeled sandals, which add a little lift without cramping your feet. Consider heeled gladiator sandals, mules (a kind of peep-toe heel), and cork or espadrille wedges. [35]
    • Stylist Tannya Bernadette cautions that heeled gladiator sandals are a statement look. “If you want them to be the centerpiece of your outfit, you have to keep everything else more simple,” she says.
  4. 4
    Wear heeled boots and closed-toe heels in fall and winter. When it’s chilly outside, protect your feet from the elements with a closed-toe pump or a platform boot. Heeled ankle boots are a fall staple, while velvet or sequin pumps are perfect for end-of-year holiday parties. [36]
  5. 5
    Use colorful and open-toe heels to dress up jeans. Wearing a cute pair of low or mid heels is an easy way to make a jeans outfit feel dressier. “For dark jeans, definitely go with a cami top in the spring or summer and some nice open-toe heels,” recommends Kim. Another option is to wear a bright red or yellow heel with regular or light-wash jeans for a cute pop of color.
    • “Red heels pair well with jeans,” confirms stylist Veronica Tharmalingam. If you don’t own red heels, pick your most eye-catching pair to elevate your denim ‘fit.
    • “Make sure the hem of the denim falls on your ankle or calves (depending on the look/style/fit of the denim) so your heels are not forgotten,” Kim suggests.
  6. 6
    Pair platform heels with a skirt to lengthen your legs. Platform heels add height without forcing you to do the same balancing act as stilettos. Wear a pair of platform heels with a silk midi skirt and sweater to achieve a dressy vibe for a date night, or rock them with a denim mini skirt for a more casual daytime look. [37]
    • “A mini skirt, dress, or a pair of shorts are great to pair with chunky heels because showing some leg will balance the thicker shoe silhouette,” explains stylist Erin Micklow.
    • If you’re wearing a skirt to the office and want to add heels, opt for sensible pumps or kitten heels that match your workplace’s dress code.
  7. Aiming for a dressy, semi-formal look? Balance out the flowing silhouette of a jumpsuit or wide-leg slacks with pointed-toe pumps. Almond-toe heels are another good option. Look for a stiletto heel for a classic, polished appearance, or choose a cone heel for slightly more support. [38]
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Section 6 of 6:

Frequently Asked Questions

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  1. 1
    What’s the difference between a pump and a stiletto? A pump is a specific style of high heel, while a stiletto is a heel shape often found on pumps. A stiletto is a slender, straight heel shape. Many pumps feature stiletto heels, though some pairs have block heels for increased stability and comfort. [39]
  2. 2
    What makes a heel a pump? Classic pumps are heels with a closed toe, a low-cut front, and a 2 to 3 in (5.1 to 7.6 cm) heel height. However, pumps come in several styles and heights. The designation is loosely applied by shoemakers and buyers to heels that meet one, if not all, of the criteria of a classic pump. [40]
  3. 3
    What are the easiest high heels to walk in? Kitten heels are the easiest heels to walk in because of their short height. However, the easiest high heels to walk in are platform, block, or wedge heels. Their thick heel and sole designs offer your feet extra support, making walking in them less of a balancing act. [41]
  4. 4
    How do you break in new heels? To break in a new pair of heels quickly, put on a pair of thick socks. Warm up the heels with a hair dryer on low. Next, put the heels on over your socks and walk around in them until they’ve cooled—about two or three minutes. [42]
    • Another method to make new heels feel more comfortable is to wear blister prevention tape around the parts of your foot that get the most pressure when wearing the shoes.
      • Typical problem areas are the back of the heel, the sides of the feet just before the toes, and the sides of the toes themselves.
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      References

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      2. ↑ https://www.clarks.com/en-us/blog/editorial/four-essential-types-of-heels
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      22. ↑ https://footwearnews.com/shoes/womens-footwear/womens-heels-guide-1203198460/
      23. ↑ https://footwearnews.com/shoes/womens-footwear/womens-heels-guide-1203198460/
      24. ↑ https://www.denisejoanne.com/how-to-style-heels-casually-for-everyday-wear/
      25. ↑ https://www.charleskeith.com/us/guides/heels.html
      26. ↑ https://www.vogue.com/article/comfortable-shoes-summer-best-sandals-work-office-appropriate
      27. ↑ https://jesskeys.com/velvet-shoe-trend-winter/
      28. ↑ https://footpetals.com/blogs/foot-petals-blog/your-guide-to-wearing-platform-heels
      29. ↑ https://www.instyle.com/shoes-to-wear-with-a-jumpsuit-8598621
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      31. ↑ https://shoefairyofficial.com/blogs/news/difference-between-high-heels-and-pumps
      32. ↑ https://footwearnews.com/shoes/womens-footwear/womens-heels-guide-1203198460/
      33. ↑ https://www.the-independent.com/life-style/fashion/shoes-how-to-break-in-stretch-quickly-fast-heels-rubbing-pain-too-small-blisters-a8116536.html

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