The kitten heel was introduced as a “training shoe” for younger women. The short, slender heel is around 1.5 inches tall, and the shoe helped young ladies transition from flats to high heels. The practical style became a hit with women of all ages, and became an iconic style thanks to Audrey Hepburn. This style maven sported glamorous kitten heels in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” and women were quick to replicate her style. The kitten heel has gone in and out of vogue in the decades since then, brought back often by style icons such as Jackie O, Michelle Obama, and the Kardashians.
The classic kitten heel has been a wardrobe staple for many women. It pairs perfectly with either a little black dress or a pair of jeans. Kitten heels are ideal for women who need to look elegant while spending long days on their feet. The new version has a fresher, more modern look. New cuts and proportions make today’s kitten heel look less like a throwback and more like fashion. This summer’s short heels showed a little skin, either via a slingback or a sandal style. What’s in store for fall’s kitten heels? Here is a look at some of our favorite renditions.
Yvon Sling by Victoria Beckham
Victoria Beckham was spotted wearing one of her line’s kitten heel sling backs on one foot with a boot on the other foot earlier this year. An injury sustained while on holiday landed her in crutches, but she maintained her style while walking safely in a heel shoe. She gushed about how thrilled she was to wear these shoes after they debuted in her line this year. She had taken to wearing flats and sports shoes due to her active lifestyle, and these kitten heel shoes are the perfect go between to wear instead of high heels. This pointy toed shoe is made from leather lined black and white satin. The shoes have a sling strap with a silver buckle and studs. The Yvon Sling by Victoria Beckham retails for $745.
Classic Kitten Heel Pumps from Charles & Keith
The fall and winter collection from Charles and Keith features these delightful classic kitten heel pumps. These fabric shoes have a mustard checked print. The toe is offset with solid black fabric. The classic pumps have a pointed toe and a low heel. The shoe is also available in a solid black as well as a solid gray finish, but this checkered pattern is definitely the most fun! Purchase these classic kitten heel pumps at the Charles & Keith site for $1,790.
Haircalf Ruby Mule by Gianvito Rossi
This luxurious kitten heel is crafted from leopard printed hair calf. This sexy shoe from Gianvito Rossi has a belt buckle situated over a pointed toe. The 55 mm height of the heel makes the shoe comfortable while maintaining its elegant and sleek appearance. The Haircalf Ruby Mule shoe from Gianvito Rossi sells for $915.
J’Adior Heels in Patchwork Denim by Dior
Dior kitten heel pumps embody femininity. Christian Dior used to say that these shoes go with everything. These J’Adior heels in patchwork denim have feminine curves and luxurious materials. The shoes are designed to accentuate the figure with their slingback design. The leather sole features a star accessory, one of Dior’s favorite symbols.
Kitten heels can take you from work to happy hour, or wherever you need to go, in style and in comfort. For more fabulous footwear finds, see our article about the season’s best shoes for travel.
