10 Kitten Heels That Offer Comfort and Style
As editors, we independently curate the products we love and would recommend. If you buy from our link, we may receive affiliate commission, which supports our work.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of @nycxclothes
After a decade of suffering in heels—thanks to the early 2000’s penchant for sky-high elevation, kitten heels are once again part of the fashion zeitgeist. These types of shoes, which feature heels measuring between 1.5 and 2 inches, boast a silhouette one could call conservative, but what they lack in outward sex appeal they make up for in practical elegance. Audrey Hepburn, Princess Diana and Michelle Obama are among the celebrities who’ve embraced the style, but public endorsements aside, the biggest selling point is that kitten heels are undeniably comfortable shoes.
With ‘90s minimalism being the de-facto source of inspiration last year, a range of brands are offering their versions of kitten heels to complete their runway looks. Miu Miu’s patent leather slingback kitten heels created the blueprint for thousands of dupes to follow, cementing their place as the IT-shoe of fall 2023. As entrepreneurs whose schedules often involve attending panels, dinner parties and meetings, the kitten heel comeback fits right within our lifestyles. In fact, our go-to kitten heels are the Gucci slingback pumps.
Kitten heels—whether they’re fashioned as mules or slingback pumps—provide all the fashionable comfort one can desire in a shoe. Chances are, you already own a pair or two, but if you happen to be on the market for new ones, we found some seriously irresistible options—vetted for durability. From Jacquemus’ quirky linen styles to Anine Bing’s edgy Rooney mules, scroll on for the sleekest and most polished kitten heels of the season.
Under $100
Charles & Keith Gabine Slingback Pumps
Charles & Keith knows a thing or two about producing on-trend footwear. If you aren’t looking to splurge on the designer versions, consider these slingback pumps ($86) the next best alternatives. The edgy silver hardware makes them ideal for daytime wear, right on time for Fashion Week.
Charles & Keith Gabine Slingback Pumps
$86
Banana Republic Factory Leather Low-Heel Mule
$70
Banana Republic Factory Leather Low-Heel Mule
For endless versatility and timelessness, turn to these simple low-heel black mules ($70). Featuring an easy slip-on silhouette and a directional pointed toe, these kitten heels make a subtle statement that lend themselves to office days. Nail the professional look with tailored pants and a relaxed button-down.
Mid-Tier
Reformation Wilda Kitten Mule
These are kitten heels with attitude, perfect for edgy shoppers who want to make the trend their own. The Wilda Kitten Mules ($278) will see you through daytime meetings and late-night parties with its subtle day-to-night glam. While they don’t offer as much sole support, you can spend a solid few hours in them. From tailored to sweater dresses—they will elevate any sartorial combination.
Reformation Wilda Kitten Mule
$278
W Concept Belted Slingback
Between the moody color choice and the delicate eyelet strap detailing, can these slingbacks ($239) look any cooler? Their versatility lies in the muted shade, making them finishing accessories for any neutral, colorful or dark outfit combination. Take your everyday uniform to fashion-forward heights with this reliable pair.
W Concept Belted Slingback
$239
Jacquemus Les Chaussures Duelo’ Heels
A pared down yet quirky take on kitten heels, these slingback pumps ($301 originally $700) will finish off your wedding-guest looks in style. Take them on the next tropical vacation for elevated comfort.
Jacquemus Les Chaussures Duelo’ Heels
$301
Tony Bianco Kelsey Black Nappa Heels
Tony Bianco Kelsey Black Nappa Heels
$160
A chic and tailored take on the kitten heel ($160). The buckle details give this pair an added edge. It’s alluring yet playful for day to day wear. What more could you want from a shoe?
Anine Bing Rooney Mules
Anine Bing creates Scandi-inspired clothes and accessories with a rebellious attitude, and the Rooney Mules ($400) are just an example of this. With the subtle hardware that enhances an otherwise simple slip-on silhouette, the mules not only exude a cool-girl sensibility, but they will also effortlessly transition from work meetings to after-work cocktails.
Anine Bing Rooney Mules
$400
A Splurge
Miu Miu Patent Buckle Trio Slingback Pumps
No wonder there are so many dupes of these Miu Miu pumps ($1,270). They exude a kind of self-assuredness that is as appropriate for happy hour cocktails as it is polished for a night out.
Miu Miu Patent Buckle Trio Slingback Pumps
$1,270
Jill Sander Pointed-toe Leather Sling
All the cool girls wear Jill Sander and these pointed-toe leather sling kittens ($950) are an example of the effortlessly chic style.
Jill Sander Pointed-toe Leather Sling
$950
Gucci Crystal-embellished Mesh Slingback Pumps
$1,150
Gucci Crystal-embellished Mesh Slingback Pumps
The slingbacks ($1,150) that made us fall in love with kitten heels. This pair is as versatile as it is practical. Have a work conference? Pair them with a tailored suit. Your company’s holiday party is coming up? They will work just as well with a slinky knit dress. Truly, there aren’t many occasions these shoes aren’t appropriate for..