Putting your best foot forward isn’t exactly easy when said foot is strapped into a stiletto that leaves it achy, blistered, and bleeding. Having left parties early one too many times due to poor shoe choices, I now exclusively swear by the most comfortable heels—kitten heels, specifically. The best kitten heels are suited to occasions when I want the lift, but don’t want to spend the night with angry arches. As Kim Cattrall said in 2019: “I don’t want to be in a situation for even an hour where I’m not enjoying myself.”
Luckily for me, the best kitten heels had a resurgence on the spring 2024 runways, from the likes of Prada, Gucci, and Valentino. The shoe’s renewed popularity among major designers echoes a larger desire for modern shoppers. They want to feel beautiful in what they wear, but not for a price. “Comfort is paramount,” Neous creative director Vanissa Antonious tells me. “A slight elevation is all that is needed for the days where you need a subtle lift.”
I find that kitten heels are well suited for running between meetings on workdays, or for dinners where I want to look dressy but realistically have to navigate the subway before and after. Having searched for the best kitten heels out there right now, I’m excited to share 20 styles I know I can wear for hours on end.
The Best Kitten Heels of 2024
An ankle strap isn’t just ideal for keeping your foot stable, it’s a great way to highlight your ankle. I love the touch of ballet inspiration for this heel via the teeny-tiny bow.
Sizes: 5–11
Materials: Satin
As someone who has a slew of weddings on the horizon in 2024, I love the unique but simple look of this Bottega Veneta heel. Bonus points for how comfortable it will be on the dance floor.
Sizes: 5.5–10.5
Materials: Leather
A subtle sequin logo print makes this shoe from Gucci feel extra special. The breathable mesh also works year-round—just add black tights or socks for winter.
Sizes: 4–12
Materials: Mesh, leather sole
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Minimal and elegant, this sleek boot from Toteme is a shoe that is easy to dress up or down. It’s my go-to for colder days when my feet need to be covered.
Sizes: 35–42 EU
Materials: Leather
Best Velvet Kitten Heel
Tory Burch Eleanor Pavé Mule Sandal
Now 34% Off
Winter is the time to embrace rich textures like velvet. If you’re concerned about your toes getting cold, pair these heels with red cashmere socks.
Sizes: 6–11
Materials: Velvet
“I set out to never design shoes [that make] people look or feel uncomfortable, which is why the kitten heel is a key staple in our collections,” Antonious says. One of her favorites is the understated Irena slingback. “I wear it with everything from jeans to a miniskirt.”
Sizes: 6–11
Materials: Mesh, leather sole
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Slide your feet into these fun kitten-heeled Manolo Blahnik mules. I’ve always considered the brand to have one of the most iconic kitten heels around.
Sizes: 4–13
Materials: Textile, leather
Though they’re flashy, I consider metallics to be a sort of neutral when it come to shoes. Silver and gold go with neutral tones and bright colors alike.
Sizes: 35–42 IT
Materials: Leather
For the brides who want a little lift but refuse to spend their wedding with aching feet, these satin heels from Brother Vellies are my pick for walking down the aisle.
Sizes: 5–11
Materials: Satin
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A strappy sandal is my favorite vacation shoe, and this affordable option from Zara is simple with a trendy twist.
Sizes: 5–11
Materials: Polyurethane
A simple slingback is the ideal shoe for a day spent walking around the office. Toteme’s sleek kitten heels have a crinkled patent effect that adds a little texture to your work uniform.
Sizes: 35–42 EU
Materials: Patent leather
For a slightly b0lder choice for work, try a traditional pointy-toed kitten heel in a flashy silver that will peek out from underneath your black trousers.
Sizes: 5–11
Materials: Leather
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A nod to the vintage styles of the ’20s and ’30s, this pointed-toed Mary Jane is detailed with straps and cutouts. To keep these from feeling costumey, I envision styling them with a bodycon dress or menswear-inspired trousers.
Sizes: 6–11
Materials: Leather
Found: the perfect sandal for stowing in my suitcase and saving for a vacation somewhere warm. The thong silhouette stays put on my foot even if I’m doing lots of moving.
Sizes: 6–11
Materials: Leather
To me, this slip-on mule is the perfect power-woman shoe. It’s made with rich textures and a sleek silhouette that means business.
Sizes: 35–42 IT
Materials: Patent leather
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Best Vintage-Inspired Kitten Heel
Roger Vivier Belle Vivier Lacquered Buckle Slingback Pumps
I love a little retro color, and Roger Vivier’s buckle pump has just the right touch of nostalgia without feeling too campy. The yellow tweed adds some playful color to an all-black look.
Sizes: 5.5–12
Materials: Tweed, patent leather
It’s not exactly a loafer, or a mule, but this slide-on kitten silhouette has a witchy-meets-preppy touch to it that I find enduringly appealing. I’d style it with black tights and a plaid miniskirt to play up the prep-school feel.
Sizes: 5–11
Materials: Leather
Leave it to Loewe to create a kitten heel that’s both a sock and a sandal. This multi-purpose shoe has some quirky styling potential.
Sizes: 35–41 EU
Materials: Knit, lambskin
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If you’re planning a trip to Aspen or Whistler, having appropriate aprés-ski pieces is just as important as your slope gear. These cozy mules top my list.
Sizes: 6–11
Materials: Shearling
When the occasion calls for sparkle, sparkle we must. Mach & Mach’s bold bow mules are my dream shoe for a festive holiday get-together, like my birthday (which happens to fall on the 26th).
Sizes: 35.5–42 IT
Materials: Satin
