Just a year ago, many of us were ready to banish high heels from our lives completely. But as we warm up to fashion again, we're ready ready to trade our slippers for something sky-high. Whether you prefer a demure kitten heel or want to add height with a stacked platform style, follow our guide to the types of heels to get re-acquainted with. With so many options on the market there's really something for everyone. Whether you're headed to a wedding or out for dinner with the gals, details like feminine bows and florals will boost your look and your attitude. For those of us back to the office, smaller heel heights adorned with hardware and smart fabrics, like linen and leather, and totally boardroom-approved. Make room in your shoe wardrobe.
Kitten Heels
Defined by its shorter stiletto-style heel—usually around one inch high—kitten heels are not just for heel trainees. The slightly retro, undeniably chic heel height is optimal for high-heel pros, and they're suited for both work and play.
Shop Our Favorite Kitten Heels
Platform Heels
While platforms were once used to add height to Greek thespians performing onstage in 220 B.C.—a higher heel height equaled higher seniority—today's stacked heel options can be worn with far less drama.
Shop Our Favorite Platform Heels
Pumps
Known for their closed-toe makeup and a one-inch-or-higher heel, pumps are a classic choice with modern-day iterations that come in punchy colors and lively prints.
Shop Our Favorite Pumps
RELATED STORY
-
Sure, I'll Wear This Sarah Pidgeon-Approved Spring Shoe Trend to the AirportFoot-baring footwear is popping up in gates far and wide.
-
Hailey Bieber's Coachella Weekend Two Manicure Gives French Tips a FaceliftOf course she outdid herself.
-
Queen Elizabeth Revealed She Stopped Watching One Game Show Because of a Corgi-Related Problem, Says Royal AuthorBiographer Gyles Brandreth says the late Queen told him the very matter-of-fact reason she quit tuning into one of her favorite programs.
-
In 'Mother Mary,’ Fashion Answers Every Burning Question You Might Have About the MovieCostume designer Bina Daigeler shares how she created Anne Hathaway's pop-star persona and *that* final dress.
-
Gen Z Hates Carrie Bradshaw, But I Still Love Her—Here's WhyTikTok has put the 'Sex and the City' star on trial. I'm her biggest defender.
-
Jennifer Lawrence Swaps Out Her Favorite Adidas Sneakers for $40 SlidesThe cult classic is finding its footing again.
-
2026's High-Vamp Heel Trend Pairs Perfectly With Lily Collins's Balenciaga Cut-Out DressThe actress's outfit debuted at Paris Fashion Week just last month.
-
The Chicest Summer Shoes at Nordstrom Right Now Are All Under $200Sandals, sneakers, and more.
-
I’m Walking 20,000+ Steps on My European Vacation—4 Comfortable Shoes I’m Packing With MeThese sneakers and flats made the cut.
-
Kaia Gerber Injects Her Classic Gucci Bag and Linen Pants With a Major Spring 2026 Color TrendThis season's color-pop trend is all about maximalism.
-
Zendaya's Airport Style Cleverly Pairs Two of Spring 2026's Biggest It-Girl TrendsThe actress is stealing some elements of her 'The Drama' character's style.
