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    1. Fashion

    You Need a Kitten Heel In Your Closet

    Check out these purrr-dy styles to buy now.

    Katie Attardo's avatar
    By Katie Attardo
    Published 7 December 2020 In Buying Guides

    When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

    kitten heel
    (Image credit: Getty Images)
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    Welcome to The Essentials, our weekly series highlighting a must-have classic, key to building a timeless, pulled-together closet.

    This season, brands like Miu Miu, Prada, and Valentino took a break from the towering heels of the past and opted for something more modest: The kitten heel. Originally put on the map in the '50s, kitten heels flaunt a heel that's usually only around two inches. The low heel offers a practical but stylish (and foot-friendly) alternative to the classic heel.

    Off the runway, kitten heel inspiration is everywhere. From Marilyn Monroe to Carrie Bradshaw to Naomi Campbell, there's plenty of style inspo for those in need. Looking for tips? Pair an open toe kitten-heel with a floral dress for a breezy take. Add a pointed-toe version to cropped jeans, or a bootie to a mid-length dress. Kitten heels are both feminine and retro, but more importantly, versatile—you'll have them in your wardrobe for years to come. Perfect for work, evening, and anywhere in between, here are some of the best options to choose from right now.

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    kitten heel

    1. Sam Edelman - Judy Strappy Heel
    $43.95 AT SAMEDELMAN.COM

    Try this metallic strappy pair from Sam Edelman for a sophisticated evening look.

    kitten heel

    2. Kwaidan Editions - Pink Special Pointy Toe Kitten Heels
    $372.00 AT SSENSE.COM

    Looking to try some patten play? Pair this lilac floral style with a floral dress with a different pattern for a contrasting look.

    kitten heel

    3. Charles & Keith - Slingback Kitten Heels
    $33.00 AT CHARLESKEITH.COM

    This black kitten-heel slingback is a wardrobe staple.

    kitten heel

    4. Mara & Mine - Azeline Kitten Heel Sandals
    $93.00 AT SHOPBOP.COM

    This knotted style will be perfect for summer 2021.

    kitten heel

    5. 8 by YOOX - 8 by YOOX Pump
    $210.00 AT YOOX.COM

    The ankle tie on these satin pumps gives them a sophisticated flare.

    kitten heel

    6. MM6 Maison Margiela - Metallic-Sheen Slingback Pumps
    $318.00 AT FARFETCH.COM

    Pair these kitten heels from MM6 with a cigarette pant for a tailored look.

    kitten heel

    7. Marciano - Strappy Faux-Croc Kitten Heel
    $119.00 AT GUESS.COM

    Pair with a white dress for a breezy vacation look.

    kitten heel

    8. Titi Adesa - S’oke Gold 70
    $495.00 AT TITIADESA.COM

    Cleopatra wishes.

    kitten heel

    9. Proenza Schouler - Tie-Fastened Kitten Heel Mules
    $715.00 AT FARFETCH.COM

    This cream pair from Proenza Schouler is perfect for the gal with a 9 to 5.

    kitten heel

    10. find. - Women's Tie Up Sandal
    $51.10 AT AMAZON.COM

    Pair with an LBD and voila!

    kitten heel

    11. Stuad - Blue Nappa Gita Heeled Sandals
    $143.00 AT SSENSE.COM

    This strappy baby blue pair will give your look an added pop of color.

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    Marie Claire Newsletter

    Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!

    By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.
    Katie Attardo
    Katie Attardo
    Social Links Navigation

    Katie Attardo is the Accessories Editor at Marie Claire, covering all things fashion and jewelry-related.

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