Heels can transform any outfit from drab to fab in seconds! As a fashion expert who’s wobbled, strutted, and occasionally face-planted in every style imaginable, I’m thrilled to guide you through the wonderful world of elevated footwear. Whether you’re a heel newbie or a seasoned pro, this rundown of 19 different heel types will help you step up your shoe game.
1. Stiletto Heels
The divas of the heel world! These pencil-thin spikes add instant drama to any outfit while testing your balance skills to the extreme.
I’ve worn stilettos to boardrooms and bars alike, always feeling like I’m one wobbly step away from disaster. Yet somehow, they’re worth every precarious moment.
2. Block Heels
Hallelujah for these sturdy saviors! Block heels offer stability without sacrificing style, perfect for those of us who’ve experienced the sidewalk wobbles.
Whenever I need to look polished but know I’ll be standing for hours, these chunky champions come to my rescue. Your ankles will thank you profusely.
3. Kitten Heels
Though petite in stature, these mini-heels pack a mighty punch of sophistication! Standing at just 1-2 inches tall, they’re the gateway drug to the heel-obsessed world.
I adore slipping into kitten heels when my feet demand a break but my style standards refuse to lower. Small yet mighty fashion heroes!
4. Wedge Heels
If comfort had a heel soulmate, wedges would be it! Unlike their pointy cousins, these beauties distribute weight evenly across your foot instead of concentrating it on your poor toes.
My summer wardrobe would collapse without wedges – they’re my go-to for garden parties where I’d otherwise sink into the grass.
5. Platform Heels
Hello, height without the hurt! Platforms cheat the system by elevating both your heel and toe, reducing the actual angle of your foot.
Whenever I’m feeling vertically challenged but dread the aftermath of traditional heels, platforms swoop in as my knight in shining leather. They’re practically an optical illusion for your feet!
6. Cone Heels
Much like an ice cream cone (but significantly less delicious), these heels start wide at the sole and taper down to a point.
I find cone heels delightfully retro yet modern – a paradox in shoe form! Their geometric shape brings architectural interest to otherwise ordinary outfits, making them my secret weapon for boring basics.
7. Spool Heels
Imagine if an hourglass had a baby with a shoe – that’s a spool heel! Wider at top and bottom with a cinched middle, these vintage-inspired gems offer surprising stability.
Whenever my outfit needs a touch of Mad Men elegance, I reach for spool heels. They’re like the sensible cousin who still knows how to party.
8. Comma Heels
Grammar nerds rejoice! These uniquely curved heels resemble their punctuation namesake, sweeping forward dramatically from heel to ground.
I fell head over heels (pun absolutely intended) when these artistic wonders hit the scene. Though they’re conversation starters, beware – explaining why your shoes look like punctuation can get exhausting!
9. Cuban Heels
Not just for flamenco dancers! These slightly tapered heels with a straight front edge bring masculine energy to feminine footwear.
I love how Cuban heels let me channel my inner cowgirl without committing to full Western wear. Their moderate height makes them surprisingly practical for everyday strutting about town.
10. French Heels
Ooh la la! These curved beauties (also called Louis heels) exude aristocratic vibes with their inward curve and flared bottom.
Whenever I’m channeling my inner Marie Antoinette (minus the unfortunate ending), French heels transport me to a world of baroque elegance. They’re history on your feet – with better arch support!
11. Prism Heels
Geometry class never looked this good! These architectural marvels feature triangular or multifaceted shapes that catch light from every angle.
I reserve my prism heels for when I’m feeling particularly bold. Nothing says ‘fashion forward’ quite like walking on what essentially looks like crystallized mathematics – trust me on this one!
12. Chunky Heels
The reliable workhorses of heel world! Thicker than blocks but with more personality, chunky heels offer substantial support with a dash of attitude.
My feet sing hallelujah when I swap my stilettos for these substantial friends. They’re like the difference between balancing on a tightrope versus a sidewalk – fashion with forgiveness built in!
13. Stacked Heels
Think of these as layer cakes for your feet! Made from stacked pieces of leather or wood, they create a natural, earthy vibe that pairs beautifully with everything.
I’m particularly fond of stacked heels in autumn when their organic texture complements falling leaves and pumpkin spice everything. They’re practically seasonal decor for your feet!
14. Sculptural Heels
Who says heels can’t be art? These conversation-starting showstoppers feature abstract shapes, from spirals to spheres to things that defy description.
I save my sculptural heels for when I want my footwear to be the main character. They’re less shoes and more wearable art installations that happen to elevate you off the ground!
15. Ankle Strap Heels
Though not technically a heel shape, these security-conscious shoes deserve recognition! The strap keeps you locked in, preventing embarrassing shoe-ejection incidents.
I’ve learned through mortifying experience that ankle straps are non-negotiable for dancing. Nothing kills your vibe faster than a shoe flying across the room mid-shimmy!
16. Peep-Toe Heels
Again, not a heel type per se, but these flirtatious shoes with a small opening at the toe deserve mention! They’re the perfect compromise between pumps and sandals.
I love how peep-toes allow just enough toe visibility to showcase a pedicure without full exposure. They’re like the tasteful teaser trailer of the shoe world!
17. Transparent Heels
Clear heels are having a major moment! Whether made from lucite, acrylic, or PVC, these see-through stunners create the illusion of floating.
I was initially skeptical about what essentially amounts to wearing Tupperware on my feet, but I’ve become a convert. They’re surprisingly versatile and make your legs look miles long!
18. Mule Heels
These backless beauties let your heels live their best free-range life! The lack of rear coverage makes them easy to slip on and off.
I adore mules for their effortless elegance, though I must warn you about the distinctive slapping sound they make. Your colleagues will hear you coming from halfway across the office!
19. Corset Heels
These sultry numbers feature lacing up the back, reminiscent of Victorian undergarments! The adjustable closure ensures a perfect fit while adding dramatic flair.
Whenever I want to channel my inner burlesque dancer (which is more often than you’d think), corset heels are my go-to. They’re unapologetically sexy with a historical twist!