As a self-confessed shoe fanatic, my favourite topic of discussion is the latest trends in footwear. To quote the great Carrie Bradshaw, a good pair of shoes not only makes or breaks an outfit but also has the ability to "rescue your ankles from a life of boredom," and given the amount of time we spend in shoes working, socialising and travelling, it's only right that they should be special to make the journey a little more fun.
The latest style I have fallen for? Kitten heels. While I consider them an obviously wise investment—they are chic, playful, and, most importantly, easy to wear—I am told that they are a controversial choice. Once synonymous with "conservative" dressing, kitten heels have earned a bad reputation as being functional over fashionable, and while they may not be the sexiest shoe on the market, according to some haters, therein lies their appeal.
After making an unexpected comeback a couple of years ago thanks to Manolo Blahnik’s Maysale pumps, all was quiet on the kitten-heel front until a Miuccia Prada renaissance changed the look of the micro heel, shaking off its stuffy connotations and finally giving us a fashion-forward shoe we could actually walk in. (I'm looking at you, Versace platforms.)
Kitten-heel slingbacks at Miu Miu S/S 22.
While everyone was suitably distracted by the micro miniskirt, south of the model's ankle was a pointy loafer-meets-heel, preppily styled with ribbed socks and reminiscent of the previous year's razor-sharp Prada heels, a sporty pop of colour in an otherwise pared-back show.
Kitten heels at Prada S/S 21.
But as with any style, the only way to know if it will make the mainstream is when it starts to pop up on the street style set—fashion's most influential editors and content creators, who have the ability to turn a runway moment into a living, breathing trend. And as the Prada shoes took over our feeds on the likes of Pernille Teisbaek, Anna Vitiello and Emili Sindlev, along too came kitten-heeled mules, sandals, boots… You name it; it's been micro-heeled.
KITTEN HEELS ON SOME OF OUR FAVOURITE INFLUENCERS
Style Notes: Staying true to Prada's minimalist styling, Pernille opted for all black with a pop of colour, this time in bag form.
Style Notes: If you weren't sold on socks and sandals, try socks and slingbacks to play up the vintage vibe.
Style Notes: The new kitten heels come in open-toe versions, too, and we love the classic simplicity of Lorna's white mules.
Style Notes: Sylvie shows not only how to wear kitten heels with jeans but also how to make them work for autumn and winter.
To make the most of summer, I'm investing in low-heeled sandals and mules, but as soon as the weather gets colder, you can bet on seeing me in kitten-heel slingbacks or knee-high boots. Until then, keep scrolling for some of the best kitten heels to invest in now. Trust me—your feet will thank you.
SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST KITTEN HEELS TO BUY NOW
The slingbacks that started a revival are now available in new-season black mesh.
Wedding shoes so comfortable you won't need to change out of them.
Dakota Johnson is a fan of these Gucci It shoes, and so are we.
These fiery-red sandals are perfect for dinner, drinks and dancing. Not necessarily in that order.
Whoever said that the stiletto was the ultimate party shoe had never seen these.
Just add jeans, a tee and a blazer for an easy weekend outfit.
These minimal, chic sandals look at least three times their actual price tag.
Jimmy Choo's latest collection has three colourful slingback heel styles, but the black mesh will go with everything in your wardrobe.
Treading the line between a flip-flop and a heel, the Taralita is the perfect summer sandal.
If you're looking for slick leather mules, BY FAR has the most extensive range… by far.
These are a statement shoe lover's dream. Wear with a maximalist party outfit and lots of attitude.
Everyday heels comfortable enough to wear to the office.
These are in the sale right now but still available in all sizes, so you won't find a better pair for cheaper. There are also pink and black.
How to do kitten heels the French-girl way.
Gold lamé, square toe and ankle ties? These shoes have party written all over them.
Don't forget Topshop in your online searches. Although there might not be physical stores, there are the same trend-led high-street pieces that made the brand popular in the first place.
Channel Prada-runway energy with these satin pumps in the same shade of tangerine.
Okay, slightly taller than the one-inch specification of what constitutes a "kitten heel," but still a comfortable low-heel option.
All of the refined style of slip-on loafers with a little extra lift.
Up Next, 10 Major Shoe Trends That Will Be Everywhere This Autumn
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I'm a Shopping Editor—These 5 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Finds Are Living Rent-Free in My HeadKitten heels, burgundy flats, and more.
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If You Want to Look Like a Chic Fashion Person, Wear This Shoe Trend With Cropped PantsSelena Gomez is on board.
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Keep This Between You and Me: I Just Found a $165 Alt for The Row's Viral and Sold-Out $1300 HeelsYou're welcome.
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Yeah, You *Have* Been Wearing Athletic Shorts With the Wrong Shoes This Whole TimeHere's the *right* way.
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Forget Flip-Flops and Strappy Sandals—This Is the Elegant Shoe Trend Fashion People Are Wearing With Pedal PushersHailey Bieber and EmRata are among the fashion girls.
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I Swear By Elegant Outfits—35 Standout Items That Would Fit Right Into My ClosetHere's to a chicer outfit rotation.
