Amongst the sea of shoe styles, winter and springtime footwear is my favourite of all, purely because it encompasses such a wide variety of styles.
Take boots, for instance. While we've already seen a prevalence of styles emerge as the leading winter shoe trends, from chunky biker boots to cowboy boots and pointed-toe designs, we really have been spoiled for choice with the amount of variation on the market
As timeless silhouettes like block-heel ankle boots and simple knee-high boot reign supreme, too, it can sometimes feel difficult to know which shape is best to step out in. Enter the kitten-heel boot.
If you're looking for one boot style to complement every outfit, kitten heel boots are a stylish catch-all that can seemingly always elevate an outfit, something made possible by the minute heel that delivers just the right amount of altitude and length to your ensemble. Of all the 2025 shoe trends there are, this is one I know will stand the test of time,
Admittedly go-to has always been a flat boot, but these can sometimes feel too casual or clunky for a delicate evening dress. I often struggle to pair knee-high boots with loose jeans, and anything with too high a heel is a health and safety hazard on a rainy day.
Some of our favourite stylish celebrities including Katie Holmes, Emily Ratajkowski and Gigi Hadid have embraced the kitten-heel boot trend, turning to premium brands like Khaite to nail the look. But that's not the only reason I'm getting on board with low-heel boots and swapping my flat styles for these chicer—but still comfy—alternatives.
Kitten-heel boots are somewhat of a hybrid style, offering the sleek, elevated traits of the kitten heel, which has swept the fashion scene this year after making a comeback in Miu Miu's autumn/winter runway, combined with a snug fit of a Chelsea boot.
Striking the perfect balance between style and practicality, whether you opt for a kitten-heel ankle boot or a knee-high pair, this style gives just the right amount of elevation to make you feel put-together without the discomfort of a higher heel. They're also weather-appropriate (depending on the fabric), and most importantly, oh-so chic.
Kitten-heel boots are also a versatile shoe to transition your look from day to night, as they can be paired with pretty much any outfit. Wear a calf-grazing kitten-heel boot with a dress for the office or date night, or with a long, knitted skirt or wide-leg jeans for extra warmth and coverage. Layer a knee-high pair over skinny jeans or leggings and add a chunky knit for a cosy casual look, or pair with a miniskirt and a blazer to show them off on a night out.
So, if you're looking for the ultimate go-with-everything boots that will go the extra mile in your wardrobe, it’s safe to say kitten-heel boots are it. From high-end labels such as Toteme and Jil Sander to more affordable brands like Ganni, Massimo Dutti and Zara, I've whittled down the best kitten-heel boots for every budget. Read on to find your perfect pair.
The 21 Best Kitten-Heel Boots on the Market Right Now
- Best Overall Kitten-Heel Boots: Zara Kitten Heel Boots, £70
- Best Leather Kitten-Heel Boots: Aeyde Zoe Leather Point-Toe Ankle Boots, £380
- Best Suede Kitten-Heel Boots: H&M Suede Sock Boots, £110
- Best Knee-High Kitten-Heel Boots: Toteme The Slim Leather Knee Boots, £810
- Best Luxury Kitten-Heel Boots: Jil Sander Knee Boots, £1320
- Best Budget Kitten-Heel Boots: Mango Kitten-Heel Coco Boots, £50
The Best Kitten-Heel Boots Under £200
1. Mango Kitten-Heel Coco Boots
This expensive-looking burgundy croc-print colour way is selling out fast. Thankfully, this style also comes in a smooth.
2. Marks & Spencer Leather Kitten Heel Pointed Ankle Boots
Suede boots are big news this season, but you can't go past a premium pair of leather ankle boots.
3. River Island Red Knee High Kitten Heel Boots
River Island has upped its game in recent months, and these pointed-toe, knee-high kitten-heel boots are a great purse-friendly option.
4. Zara Kitten Heel Boots
The wide leg and luxe patent effect makes this affordable style look super indulgent.
5. Massimo Dutti Split Leather Heeled Ankle Boots
With a heel under 5cm and flexible STARFIT® insole, rest assured you'll be able to stand comfortably in these for hours. I'd recommend spritzing them with Scotchgard to protect the soft khaki cowhide from stains.
6. John Lewis Scarlette Leather Kitten Heel Pull on Knee Boots
I was pleasantly surprised by the array of kitten-heel boots available to shop from John Lewis own brand along with the other labels it stocks. These caught my eye for the glossy creased leather, but you can also find pointed-toe options in smooth leather and a slick burgundy.
7. H&M Suede Sock Boots
Ankle boots have been categorised as a trope of a millennial style, but with these, H&M proves the sock boot is wearable for every generation, especially now that suede is the fabric of the season.
The Best Kitten-Heel Boots Under £500
8. Russell and Bromley Heeled Knee-High Boot
In my humble opinion, the easiest way to elevate a simple outfit is with a great pair of boots.
9. Reformation Remy Knee Boot
Reformation offers a variety of colours, prints and textures in the Remy Knee Boot. I'm torn between the Ruby Leather, Farro Suede and Boss Suede.
10. Flattered Nour Suede Sand
These would look perfect paired with jeans, wide-leg trousers or even a mini skirt.
11. Aeyde Zoe Leather Point-Toe Ankle Boots
If you can get your hands on these black leather Aeyde boots—or the brushed beige alternative—don't think twice. They're hot property.
12. Ganni Soft Slouchy High Shaft Boots
The buckle accent is an homage to sportif motifs spotted on recent kitten-heel boots offerings from designers like Balenciaga, Givenchy and Hermés. Continue the equestrian motif by pairing this style with stirrup leggings.
13. Staud Wally Suede Ankle Boots
Staud's boots are second to none. Thankfully, they come in three colours and a whole raft of sizes.
14. Staud Wally Suede Knee Boots
In fact they're so good, we included the tall version in here too!
The Best Kitten-Heel Boots Over £500
15. Khaite Davis Leather Knee Boots
Celebs can't get enough of Khaite, especially their boots. Brand founder Catherine Holstein describes the Davis style as "The perfect everyday boot—the one to wear with everything."
16. Toteme The Slim Leather Knee Boots
With a patent-leather finish, pointed toe and 5cm kitten heel, Toteme's calf-hugging pair is ticking all the boxes.
17. Jil Sander Knee Boots
These sculptural Jill Sander boots are at the top of my wish list.
18. Toteme Suede Mid-Heel Boots Black
These are absolute classics and and black suede, black leather and croc-effect in dark chocolate and beige.
19. Toteme Croc-Effect Leather Knee Boots
Toteme's knee-high boots are available in different colours and textures, including this croc version and a leopard print.
20. Brunello Cucinelli Bead-Embellished Leather Ankle Boots
These boots are the epitome of luxury.
21. Acne Studios Patent-Trimmed Leather Ankle Boots
Acne Studio's version feature a patent trimmed toe cap, slanted kitten heel and a sock-like fit.
This piece was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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