Heel Types

Let’s face it, there are many types of women’s heels. With so many heels to choose from, it may be hard knowing where to start and what their differences are! There are a few things you need to take into consideration: heel shape, height, and a design that fits true to your personal style. Let’s break down a few common heel types, shall we? 

Block Heels 

Block heels might be one of the first heel styles you think of. Block heels, also known as chunky heels, tend to offer the most comfort. A thick block-shaped heel distributes your body weight evenly, so you can stand on your feet and walk for longer periods of time. Add a platform into the mix and now you have a little more height to chunky heels without losing comfort. Dolce Vita and Franco Sarto have so many block heels to choose from! Block heels are super versatile and can be worn with dress pants and a jacket for a polished look or with jeans and a vintage T-shirt for a more edgy vibe. No matter where you’re headed, block heels will take you there with ease. 

Stiletto Heels 

Stiletto heels are so iconic. Stilettos are known for their high heels that are thin and pointed. These pumps lengthen your legs and can make you feel like a superstar. Discover stiletto heels from on-trend brands like Jessica Simpson, Aldo, and Betsey Johnson. Stiletto heels go great with a bold dress, mini skirt, or wide-leg pants. These high heels require a little bit of practice to walk in, but you’ll be a pro in no time. 

Wedge Heels 

Wanting more of a casual feel to your heel rotation? Go for a wedge heel. Wedge slip-ons stand out because of their continuous wedge-shaped sole that starts at your toe and goes towards your heel while growing in height. A wedge platform brings extra height and comfort while still being able to walk easily. Browse a variety of wedge heels from Steve Madden, Marc Fisher, and Crown Vintage. Wedges go great with a flowy sundress or light-wash denim and a floral top. 

Kitten Heels 

Kitten heels are typically the shortest heel type. These heels are perfect for beginners thanks to their subtle boost of height and walkability. Kitten heels come in an array of styles like slingback heels, mule heels, and peep-toes. Anne Klein, Mix No. 6, and Vince Camuto have timeless kitten heels to add to your rotation and can be worn with floor-length dresses or midi skirts.

More Types of Heels

If a fun heel shape interests you–you’re in luck. There are more heel types to consider trying out. Flare heels are slim at the top of the heel and taper out, while a cone heel is the opposite. Cone heels have a thick base that come to a point at the end. Flare and cone heels are common in pumps and dress sandals. Like more of a classic heel? Opt for a Cuban heel, which is close to a block heel, but shorter in height. Combat boots and Western-inspired styles are known for their Cuban heel shapes. A chunky heel can also be similar to a block heel, but most times has a thicker base. Make any outfit stand out with these unique heel types. 

Popular Heel Styles 

With so many different heel types to choose from, there are a few that are super popular. These heel types can be worn with so many outfits and to so many places. Here’s a rundown of the heel types you should probably add to your closet as soon as possible. 

Platform Heels 

Platforms come in various heel heights, which makes them easy to wear with anything! Platform heels have an extra portion of sole under the toe of the shoe to add extra height and extra comfort (a win-win). When a high heel has a platform, your foot has less of an incline and puts less pressure on the ball of your foot, which means you can wear them all day!  

Platforms come in many different styles: block or chunky heels bring a bit of a retro feel, while a wedge or flatform espadrille adds a beachy element to warm-weather looks. You can literally wear a platform all season, whether paired with slacks, a sweater, or a printed maxi dress. Find platform heels from brands like Crown Vintage, Vince Camuto, and more! 

Pumps 

If timeless heel types are more of your thing, you can never go wrong with a pump. Pumps, generally referred to as high heels, are known for their low-cut front and vary in height and style! If you’re feeling bold, go for a stiletto or a block heel. If you’re wanting your look to feel a little more polished, a kitten heel or peep-toe pump is the move.  

Pumps can be a comfortable choice when going into the office or a formal event. You can wear pumps with almost anything, too! Go with a nude or black pump with tapered pants or a cocktail dress for social occasions. Not sure where to start? Kelly & Katie, Jessica Simpson, and Naturalizerhave so many pumps to choose from. 

Dress Sandals  

In case you missed it–dress sandals are trending for spring and summer. Dress sandals come in lots of colors and prints that it makes dressing up so much fun. There are many heel types that come with dress sandals such as stilettos, wedges, block heels, espadrilles, and strappy sandals. Wear dress sandals like wedges or ankle-strap heels with a pleated dress to a wedding, or even pair a block heel or wedge dress sandal with skinny jeans and a flowy top for happy hours. You can style dress sandals from brands like Marc Fisher in different ways and no matter what, they’lltake your look to the next level. 

Heeled Boots 

Let’s talk about a different heel type: heeled boots. Booties with heels are a great option during the cooler months and can bring a bit of edge or head-turning feel to an outfit. Heeled booties from brands Sam Edelman or Betsey Johnson feature eye-catching details like cutouts or gleaming rhinestones, while brands Madden Girl and Dr. Martens have trending boots with heels such as Western-inspired boots or always-cool combat boots. You can wear a stiletto-heeled bootie with a curve-hugging dress, or a heeled combat boot with ripped jeans and a band T-shirt. Heeled boots vary from short to tall heel heights, so it’s easy to choose what fits your personal style.

Statement Heels  

When in doubt, stand out. That’s where statement heels come in. Statement heels can bring an extra-fun feel to any look. Statement heels include colorful stilletos from Steve Madden, rhinestone-embellished heeled boots from Betsey Johnson, platform heels from Dolce Vita, and daringfantasy heels from Jessica Simpson. No matter where you go, you’ll be seen with every step you take in statement heels.

Heel Trends 

You’ve got all the different heel types down, but did you know there are even more details that come with heels? There’s more to heels than just their height and heel shape. Try out different types of styles like modern square-toe heels, heels with secure ankle straps, T-strap-accented heels, bold lace-up heels, dressy slingback heels, playful mule heels, or sophisticated Mary Jane heels.  

Heels by Occasion 

When you think of all the different types of heels, of course you’re also thinking about where to wear them! There’s a list of occasions you can where all heel types to, but the setting is something you need to think about. You’re going to want to wear something that is comfortable enough to be on all day or night, and easy to walk in if you’re going to be moving around. You also want to make sure the type of heel is appropriate for the occasion, too! 

Wedding Heels 

Weddings are one of the first occasions that come to mind when picking out a pair of heels. There’s a long list of heel types to choose from, but it’s up to you and your comfort zone on what will be best. If you’re hoping to secure a spot on the best-dressed guest list, look to trending heel types like colorful block heels, platforms, or strappy sandals that pair with a midi skirt or floral dress. If you’re the bride, go for a classic pump, kitten heel, or a daring stiletto if you want to make an entrance in your wedding heels. As part of the bridal party, it’s always a good idea to go with a neutral block heel or wedges, that way, they will match the color of your dress and you can wear your heels again for a future engagement. Plus, you’ll be comfortable while standing and dancing the night away. 

Another factor on the types of heels you can wear for a wedding is the time of year the event will be. If it’s a spring or summer wedding, a platform dress sandal from Vince Camuto or mule heels from Kelly & Katie are the perfect addition to your look. If you’re attending a fall or winter wedding, go for a pump from Franco Sarto or heeled boot or bootie from Crown Vintage.  

Formal Heels 

Is your social calendar packed this year with all sorts of events like galas, celebrations, or even holiday parties? Have no fear, because there are a lot of formal heels you can wear. When it comes to special events like charity auctions, dances, or evening celebrations, a classic pump or ankle-strap heel is a classy addition to gowns or pantsuits. If you’re planning to attend events like birthday bashes or New Year’s Eve parties, a fun statement-making heel is in. On-trend sparkles or vibrant colors will pair well with daring dresses or playful jumpsuits. 

Going Out Heels 

Heels and a night out–they just make sense together. Hitting the club for girls’ night out? A sky-high stiletto heel or strappy block heel will grab attention to anyone you pass by. Trying out a new restaurant for date night? A flare heel or nude pointed-toe pump will be a sophisticated move. Don’t forget about vacations! You’re going to want to look your best, no matter the destination. For island getaways, a boho-inspired espadrille wedge heel or low block heel with raffia detailing is perfect for dinner by the beach. If your trip entails a new city, a metallic stiletto heel is the just-right style to wear for rooftop drinks.  

Casual Heels 

Who said heels were only for special events or going out? Not us! You can totally wear different types of heels in casual settings. Heading to brunch with your close friends? Go for a Mix No. 6 kitten heel with details like braided straps or a Vince Camuto sandal with a wood block heel.  

Believe it or not, there are everyday heels you can wear that are comfortable enough to be on the go, whether you’re running errands or grabbing coffee. Show off your laid-back style in an ultra-comfy wedge heel from Crocs or low platform sandals from Steve Madden. Casual heels are great for your work-to-weekend looks, too. Stacked block heels, wedges, or platforms are the types of heels that pair with a blazer and chino pants or a floral wrap dress seamlessly.

TYPES OF HEELS FOR EVERY OCCASION AT DSW 

On-trend block heels, towering stilettos, and double-take-worthy platforms–the choice is yours on the heels you want to wear. No matter your plans or personal style, the limit of heels you have in your closet doesn’t exist! Stock-up on a variety of heel types for any outfit and occasion because you can never have too many options. If you are looking for more inspiration on how to style your new shoes you can venture over to influencer edit to see how all your fave influencers are styling their shoes. Looking for more? Shop our new arrivals to see all the hottest styles right now. AND don’t forget you can score extra with perks from our VIP Rewards (hello, 5% back on every purchase). Browse all the heels online at dsw.com, in the DSW app, or check out your local store.