Women’s Fashion: The Complete High Heels Buying Guide

Women’s fashion is often an unforgiving and ever-changing landscape but one trend that has remained constant is the popularity of heels. Their origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where both men and women would wear elevated shoes as a symbol of power and social status.

Over time, they found their way into modern fashion, evolving into a variety of styles that cater to different preferences and occasions. They’re not only a fashion statement but also can significantly alter one’s posture and add a touch of elegance to any outfit.

How Many Types of Heels Are There?

While there are endless designs and variations of these stylish shoes, there are a handful of options that are just as timeless as they are popular. Depending on your outfit, event and personal preference, you’d need to browse through the assortment of women’s high-heel shoes to find the right pair.

Stilettos

A staple in the high heels category, stilettos have a thin and high heel that can range from 4 to 6 inches. They are designed to elongate the legs and give off a seductive vibe, making them perfect for formal events or a night out on the town.

However, they’re not the most practical option for everyday wear due to their height and lack of stability. They’re often associated with a glamorous and sophisticated look, making them a go-to choice for red-carpet events.

Platforms

Platforms are characterized by their thick sole that provides elevation to the entire foot rather than just the heel. They can range from 1 to 5 inches in height and come in various styles such as pumps, sandals, and boots.

They offer the same leg-lengthening effect as stilettos but are more comfortable due to the added support from the front platform. They’re ideal for those who want some extra height without sacrificing comfort.

Wedges

Wedges have a heel that runs from back to front, providing support throughout the entire foot. This makes them more stable and easier to walk in compared to stilettos or platforms. They come in a variety of styles including espadrilles, boots, and sandals.

Wedges are perfect for outdoor events or casual occasions since they offer both height and comfort. They also pair well with summer dresses or jeans for a chic yet laid-back look. Despite their practicality, wedges can still create a stylish and polished appearance.

Chunky

Chunky heels have a wider and thicker heel compared to stilettos, making them more sturdy and comfortable to wear. They’re a great option for those who want some height without sacrificing stability. They come in various styles such as pumps, sandals, and boots.

They can add a touch of elegance to any outfit while also providing more support for the feet. As such, they’re a versatile choice for both formal and casual occasions. You can pair them with a pencil skirt for the office or with a flowy dress for a night out.

Kitten

Kitten models are low and thin, typically ranging from 1 to 2 inches in height. They were popularized in the 1950s and have since made a comeback in recent years. They offer a subtle lift to the foot and are easy to walk in due to their short heel.

These heels add a touch of femininity to an outfit without being too overpowering. They’re perfect for work settings or events that require more conservative attire. Kitten heels also pair well with cropped pants or midi skirts for a sophisticated look.

Slingback

Slingback options have a strap that goes around the back of the foot, keeping the shoe in place. They come in various heel heights and can be found in both open-toe and closed-toe styles. Slingbacks offer a mix of elegance and comfort, making them suitable for both formal and casual events.

They can be worn with dresses, skirts, or pants and are a great option for those who want to show off some skin in a subtle way. They’re also a popular choice for the warmer months, as they allow for more airflow around the feet.

Peep-toe

Peep-toe options have an opening at the front of the shoe that exposes the toes. They come in various heel heights and can be found in both pumps and sandal styles. Peep-toe heels add a touch of playfulness to an outfit while still maintaining elegance.

They’re a versatile choice that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. You can pair them with a little black dress for a night out or with jeans and a blouse for a more casual look. They also come in different colours and patterns, making them suitable for any personal style.

Wedge

Next, wedge women’s high-heel shoes have a thicker sole that spans the entire length of the shoe, providing better arch support and comfort compared to other types of heels. They can be found in both open-toe and closed-toe styles and offer a modern twist on traditional high heels.

Wedges are perfect for those who want the extra height and stability of heels without sacrificing comfort. They pair well with flowy dresses and skirts, but can also be worn with jeans for a more casual look. They come in a variety of heights and materials, making them suitable for any occasion.

Ankle Strap

These have a strap that wraps around the ankle, adding an extra element of support and security to the shoe. They’re just as versatile as other types of heels and can be found in different styles such as pumps, sandals, and peep-toe.

They’re a great option for those who want to wear high heels but have concerns about them slipping off or causing discomfort. They’re also a popular choice for formal events as they offer more stability when walking or dancing. With various designs and colours available, ankle strap heels can add an extra touch of elegance to any outfit.