The Types of Heels That Rise to Any Occasion
The styles you'll never grow tired of.
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
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.

Sara Holzman is the Style Director at Marie Claire, where she has worked in various roles to ensure the brand's fashion content continues to inform, inspire, and shape the conversation around fashion's ever-evolving landscape. A Missouri School of Journalism graduate, she previously held fashion posts at Condé Nast’s Lucky and Self and covered style and travel for Equinox’s Furthermore blog. Over a decade in the industry, she’s guided shoots with top photographers and stylists from concept to cover. Based in NYC, Sara spends off-duty hours running, browsing the farmer's market, making a roast chicken, and hanging with her husband, dog, and cat. Find her on Instagram at @sarajonewyork.
-
What to Remember About the 'Virgin River' Cast and Characters as the Netflix Hit Returns for Season 7Here's your guide to everyone in Jack and Mel's cozy town—including the fresh faces in the new episodes.
-
Your Guide to the Filming Timelines and 'Mormon Wives' Drama Setting Up Taylor Frankie Paul's 'Bachelorette' SeasonThe #MomTok star joins Bachelor Nation very soon.
-
The Husbands Are Ruining 'The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives'MomTok’s rise was the whole point of the Hulu reality hit. DadTok’s fragile egos are turning it into something else entirely.
-
Hailey Bieber Takes Her Rare Chanel Bag to Dinner in a '90s Skirt Trend and Slingback HeelsThe Rhode founder's throwback outfit feels right on time.
-
Sarah Pidgeon Styles One of Spring 2026's Key Denim Trends With Classic LoafersShe's bringing Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's '90s minimalism to the streets of Paris.
-
Hailey Bieber Accessorizes Her Sheer Outfit With a $2,450 Gucci Bag and The Row MulesHer lunch date look includes a sold-out crochet skirt and a vintage wool wrap.
-
Spring 2026 Reinvents Classic Florals in Favor of Something FresherCraftier, more artistic blooms are sprouting this season.
-
Goodbye, Flats—Chic, Comfortable Kitten Heels Are My New ObsessionThree styles I'm loving.
-
Discover Every Look From the 2026 Actor Awards Red CarpetSee how stars interpreted the "Reimagining Hollywood Glamour" dress code.
-
Meryll Rogge's Fall 2026 Marni Debut Is for the Fashion Freaks and GeeksMeryll Rogge's debut confirms chic clothes can still have a sense of humor.
-
My New Favorite Fashion Ritual? Wearing Chic, Ladylike Outfits to Art MuseumsA great opportunity to get capital-D Dressed.