Tiny heels are back and the fashion world couldn't be more welcoming of the news. Not only are they categorically chic, but they’re also uber-comfortable.
Technically speaking, a kitten heel is a short stiletto heel, with a slight curve setting the heel in from the back edge of the shoe. "2024 is the year of the kitten heel," explains publicist Kendra Hettig, "Seen on the SS24 runways of Prada, Valentino and more, the kitten heel is sure to be next year's it shoe."
© GettyWhat are kitten heels?
First introduced back in the 1950s as a formal shoe option for younger girls to wear to events, kitten heels were often referred to as “training heels’ because of the minuscule heel height. In the 1960s an unknown woman (to whom we owe our life for making comfortable shoes acceptable) started sporting kitten heels of their own, styling them for fancy events, day trips and casual dinners.
MORE: I tried Balloon Jeans and now they're my most loved wardrobe staple
RELATED: These influencer-adored ballet flats now come in a new party season colourway
Seen on runways around the world and sported daily by some of fashion's most notable names, like Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner, the kitten heel are widely considered the superior heel silhouette. Available in an array of different forms including pointed-toe silhouettes, suede constructions and slingback shapes, there’s truly a kitten heel for all.
If you value comfort and style, consult my list of a few of my favourite kitten heels on the market right now and how to style them...
How we chose the pieces:
Price: I have included a mix of both high street and luxury brands, which results in varying price points.
Style: I have chosen to include a range of different styles, however, all of them fit under the ‘kitten heel’ definition.
Why you should trust me:
I am Hello! Fashion’s Fashion Features Writer. With a love for all things fashion (the quirkier the better), I can usually be found playing dress-up in my own wardrobe, watching Gilmore Girls for the eighth time or finding new outfit inspo and DIY musts on TikTok, nothing in my closet is safe from a safety-pin bow embellishment. I have been in the styling world for almost 5 years now, specialising in editorial features, luxury campaigns and music videos. As for the world of magazines, I have worked for various digital and print publications around the world, focusing on fashion. Basically, fashion is my bread and butter.
GG Slingback Pumps 35
Gucci
Possibly the most perfect pump ever made, these Gucci crystal monogrammed mesh heels have my heart for reasons that need no explanation. Almost too good to wear, I would either wear them with everything (even my pyjamas) or nothing at all and just look at them every day in awe.
Satin Heeled Mules 35
Prada
They say perfection doesn't exist, but then explain these Prada pumps. A lustrous shade of apple green paired with a futuristic design culminates in a dreamy transitional shoe. Add to bag.
Emmy Pointed Kitten Heel Pumps
Charles & Keith
Channel your inner Jackie Keneddy with these gorgeously retro chalk-coloured pumps. I would go all out and pair this heel with a matching two-piece tweed suit.
Leather Mules
Bottega Veneta
Slip into sunshine with Bottega Veneta's leather mules, complete with a buttery smooth finish and petite kitten heels.
Sidney Slingbacks
Schuh
You can never go wrong with a pop of crimson - or a slingback for that matter. Schuh's affordable slips ons are the perfect blend of Y2K flirt and everyday elegance.
Leather Mules
Mango
Inject texture into your everyday with Mango's befurred mules. Kitsch and cool in the extreme, these ponyhair slip-ons are true conversation starters.
Reem Heels
Bobbies
In need of the ideal It-girl pumps? Look no further than Bobbies. The Parisian label is brimming with sweetheart styles, such as these cosmic silver Reem heels.
Pointed Leather Pumps
Maje
Tune into girlish glamour with Maje's pointed pumps. Offering a gentle pop of blossom pink, these easywear heels are both feminine and flirtatious - perfect for any after-hours event.
HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.
