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.
-
William Is Helping His Kids to Develop "Strategic Thinking" Skills"Usually everyone gets very cross."
-
Kate Middleton Turned Down an Unprecedented Christmas Invitation"She declined. William met her decision with silence."
-
Gwyneth Paltrow Trades Goop Neutrals for a Bubblegum Pink SetIt's been her staple for decades.
-
Kylie Jenner Brings the Heat in a Bright Red Latex Halter Dress and PVC HeelsThe shade of her dress would make Santa Claus proud.
-
Selena Gomez Styles an Asymmetric Little Black Dress With Tacori Diamond JewelryShe twinned with actress Amanda Seyfried, who wore an Armani LBD to the movie screening.
-
Rihanna Trades Her Duster Coat and Platform Heels for a Little Black OutfitLoud luxury accessories took the superstar from day to night.
-
Lily Collins's Schiaparelli Haute Couture Dress Is Adorned With Feathers and PetalsThe 'Emily in Paris' season 5 photocall was a seriously sophisticated affair.
-
Some Would Say My Ring Stacks Are \201cToo Loud\201d and \201cTacky\201d—I Couldn't Disagree MoreThe right ring combo elevates even the most basic T-shirt and jeans.
-
Dua Lipa's $5,100 Fendi Peekaboo Bag Pairs Perfectly With Two Totally Different OutfitsProof that animal-print accessories work for every occasion.
-
The Most Elegant Gifts to Give and Get, According to the Stylish Women in My LifeAlexis Badiyi asked her inner circle for their most worth-it presents.
-
I Have Enough Reformation Dresses, So I’m Using Cyber Monday to Shop Its It Girl-Approved Shoe SelectionThey're all on major sale for Cyber Monday.