Types Of Heels: The Ultimate List 2022

High-heels have long been a staple in women’s fashion. That is why there are more types of heels than one may care to remember.

Heels are the perfect way to add extra style and flair to your outfit and personality. Whether you are wearing a party dress or a pair of jeans, heels can instantly elevate your look.

There are many types of heels out there, from pointy stilettos to chunky wedges. Each style has its own unique look and feel. Wearing the wrong heel can be a fashion disaster. Hence, it’s important to know the right heel for your individual style and needs.

Some heels, like kitten heels and cone heels, are perfect for dressier occasions where you want to look polished and put together.

Other types of heels, like wedges or platforms, are great for more casual wear. These add a touch of height without sacrificing comfort.

Ultimately, heels are a fantastic way to make a statement and express your personal sense of style. But with so many types of heels, it can be hard to know which ones are right for you.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the types of heels available and their characteristics. So whether you’re looking for a new pair of stilettos or just want to know more about wedges, read on!

Classification of Heels based on Height

Flat Heel

Flat heels are less than 1 inch in height.

These can be found on gladiators, flip-flops, ballet flats, men’s derby shoes, loafers, etc.

Above all, flat heels are comfortable to walk in. Hence can be worn for extended periods without causing foot pain.

Flat heels are versatile enough to be worn with jeans, shorts, dresses, and skirts. Their versatility makes them easy to incorporate into your everyday wardrobe.

Low Heel

Low heels strike the perfect balance between style and comfort. Low heels are between 1 to 2 inches high.

This type of heel can be found on kitten heels, ballroom dance shoes, and many others.

Low heels are often more elegant than flats but not as difficult to walk in as high heels. This quality of low heels makes them a perfect choice for any kind of outfit. 

Hence, you can easily pair these heels with almost everything from pencil skirts and pants to dresses and jeans. 

Medium Heel

Medium heels are usually around 2 to 3 inches. This makes them tall enough to give you a little boost in your height.

These types of heels are often found on pumps, ankle straps, etc.

Medium heels also tend to be more versatile than other heel heights. These heels can dress up a casual look or add a touch of elegance to a more formal outfit.

High Heel

High heels are a type of heel that is characterized by their height.

While the standard high heel is 3 inches or more, there are many different variations of this classic style. Popular variations include pumps, ankle straps, slingbacks, and heeled boots.

High heels have a timeless appeal that always looks good with any type of fashion. High heels exude sophistication and class, whether paired with boyfriend jeans and a t-shirt or a sleek cocktail dress.

Types Of Heels For Women

Adjustable High Heels

Adjustable high heels are also known as convertible heels. These are a revolutionary type of footwear that effortlessly converts your average pair of flats into a stylish pair of heels.

With heel heights ranging from 1.7 to 3.1 inches, these versatile heels will add style and sophistication to any outfit.

Furthermore, their innovative design allows you to easily add or remove these heels from your favorite flats without any difficulty.

Whether you’re going out for a night on the town or wearing your favorite flats to work, these innovative shoes will be a game-changer in your wardrobe.

Block Heels

Block heels have become increasingly popular in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. Block heels offer better support and stability than stilettos, which can be difficult to walk in.

Block heels typically range in height from 2 to 4 inches and are available in both mid and high styles. The width of your block heel can also vary, from slender bases to full wedges.

Their broad base and sturdy construction make them well-suited for everyday wear. While their slender profiles make them a natural choice for more formal occasions.

Block heels are made using various materials, including plastic, leather, suede, wood, etc. These types of heels can be found on almost everything, including sleek ankle strap heels, elegant mules, and slingbacks.

Overall, they are an incredibly versatile footwear option that pairs well with casual and dressy outfits. Pair your favorite formal dress with block heels for a sleek and stylish look.

Chunky Heels

Chunky heels are defined by their thick, chunky design. These heels feature a large surface area and solid platform at the ball of the foot. Hence, provide lots of support and stability to your feet.

The heel height ranges from ½ to 4 inches and is often made from materials like wood, cork, rubber, etc.

Because they offer both style and comfort, chunky heels are a versatile choice for both casual and formal outfits. So whether you’re wearing skinny jeans or a flowy dress, these types of heels always look stylish and on-trend.

Cuban Heels

 Cuban heels were originally worn by the French upper class in the 1600s.

These low-style heels are characterized by their slightly tapered back and straight front. Hence, they provide a sophisticated look and a comfortable fit.

With a heel height ranging from 1.5 to 2 inches, Cuban heels are ideal for anyone looking for a comfortable yet elegant shoe style. They are often found on ballroom dance shoes, boots, and other fashionable footwear styles.

When choosing an outfit to wear with Cuban heels, it is important to keep in mind that they will look best with tapered or slim-fit trousers. 

Curved Heels

Curved heels come in mid and high heights but usually hover around 2-4 inches. Characterized by their bulbous curve, these heels are a more innovative and modern take on the classic comma heel.

Curved heels can be found on various footwear, like slingbacks, pumps, etc.

As for styling, these types of heels look great with ankle-length jeans and knee-length dresses.

Comma Heels

The comma heel is a unique type of heel characterized by its distinct shape.

With a height ranging between 1.3 to 2.9 inches, the heel is typically low or medium type. Comma heels can be inward-facing or outward-facing, depending on the style.

Due to its versatile look, the comma heel can be found in various shoe styles. These include slingbacks, pumps, ankle strap heels, and many others. The versatility of these heels makes them a popular choice for contemporary fashionistas.

Whether you’re looking for an elevated casual look or simply want to make a statement with your footwear, the comma heel will fit the bill.

Cone Heels

Cone heels are a type of heel that is wider at the sole of the foot and narrower at the base. They are named for their shape, similar to an ice cream cone.

Cone heels can range in height from 1.5 to 3.1 inches and can be found on mules, slingback booties, and other shoes.

These heels are an excellent choice for bodycon dresses or mini skirts because they add a touch of glamour without being too over the top.

Decorative Heels

Decorative heels are a type of heel that is adorned with embellishments, such as beads, sequins, or other types of decorations.

These types of heels are often worn on special occasions, such as weddings or parties.

These heels come in almost every shape and size and can be found on pumps, ankle strap heels, cutouts, etc.

Decorative heels are primarily found in medium or high heel styles. These heels are often made in different colors or patterns, adding extra glamour to your look.

Double Platform Heels

Double platform heels are a type of heel that features a two-layered platform. This provides extra support to the feet and helps to prevent injury.

Double platform heels can range in heel height from 3 to 5 inches and are available in both mid and high heel styles.

Double platform heels are typically made from materials such as wood, rubber, or leather.

These heels can be paired with a variety of different outfits. For a casual look, try pairing double platform heels with shorts or a floral dress.

Fantasy Heels

Fantasy heels are a type of heel that is designed for maximum impact. These over-the-top heels are often tall, dramatic, and embellished with beads, sequins, or other decorations.

Fantasy heels are often used in Halloween costumes or other dress-up occasions.

These heels are the perfect choice for a night out on the town or any special occasion. 

So if you want to experiment with your look, don’t be afraid to try a pair of fantasy heels.

Flare Heels

The flared heel is a type of heel that is wider at the base. It resembles a triangle or the flared leg of a pair of jeans.

Flared heels are usually 2 to 4 inches in height. They can be made from various materials, such as leather, wood, and metal.

Flared heels are often seen on pumps and ankle booties. These types of heels are known for being both stylish and comfortable. 

A flared heel can dress up a simple outfit, but it also goes well with more formal attire and flowy dresses.

Flatform Heels

Flatform heels are a type of platform heel with a flatter and comfortable sole. These heels usually have a chunky design and range between ½ to two inches.

Flatform heels are often made from wood, cork, or rubber and provide extra comfort when walking.

While they provide the same style benefits as regular platform heels, flatform heels are great for extra comfort. These heels are perfect for everyday wear and can be styled with both casual and dressy outfits.

So if you’re looking for a versatile heel that is comfortable and stylish, consider giving flatform heels a try.

French Heels

French heel, also known as Louis heel, is a woman’s shoe heel, usually high and pitched forward. It has a backline and breast line with a pronounced curve.

They typically feature a height of two to three inches, with a medium heel type.

French heels are characterized by a broad top, thin middle, and sharply curved bottom. These heels are often found on shoes such as ankle strap heels, mules, and other styles that emphasize the elegance and class of the wearer.

Try pairing your French heels with a below-knee length floral dress for a truly eye-catching look.

Heelless Heels

Heelless heels are a type of heel that does not have a traditional heel. Instead, these heels are supported by a platform under the forefoot.

Heelless heels can range in height from medium to high and can be found on mules, pumps, and other shoes.

These types of heels are often worn by people who want the look of high heels without discomfort. Heelless heels are also a good choice for people who have difficulty walking in traditional high heels.

If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional high heel styles, heelless heels are great to go.

High Heels

High heels are a popular style choice for women looking to add a touch of elegance to their outfits.

These types of heels make the wearer appear taller, accentuating their natural curves and lengthening their silhouette.

Many high-heeled shoes also feature strategically placed cutouts or slits. These reveal tantalizing glimpses of the wearer’s muscular legs.

High heels are made from various materials such as leather, suede, or even plastic and come in a wide range of styles and shapes. Whether you prefer classic pumps or edgy heeled boots, there is no shortage of style options in high-heeled footwear.

From stylish mini skirts to sleek pencil skirts, these striking heels always look fabulous.

Kitten Heels

Kitten heels were introduced in the late 1950s as an alternative to higher heels for young girls. At the time, high heels were considered inappropriate for girls as young as thirteen. Hence, kitten heels provided a more appropriate option.

Kitten heels feature a low 1.5 to 2-inch heel height. Hence, they are ideal for providing a little lift without compromising comfort or stability.

The heel itself is thin in shape with a slight curve that sets it in from the back edge of the shoe.

Kitten heels are often made from patent leather, embellishments, or fabric coatings. These types of heels can be found on different shoes, such as pumps, mules, slingbacks, etc.

Despite their unassuming appearance, kitten heels are incredibly versatile. These can be paired with both casual and formal outfits with great success.

Mid-High Heels

Medium heels are perhaps the most versatile type of heel, as they can be worn with both casual and formal attire.

With a heel height ranging from 2 to 3 inches, these shoes strike a perfect balance between comfort and style.

These heels provide just enough lift to make the wearer appear taller and more confident without sacrificing comfort or stability. This quality of medium heels makes them ideal for everyday wear.

As far as materials go, medium heels can be made from leather and suede to plastic and metal. And when it comes to style, these versatile heels can be found on everything from classic pumps to edgy ankle boots.

A fashion tip when wearing a medium heel is that it goes perfectly with knee-length dresses and jumpsuits.

Pin Heels

Pin heels are a quintessential fashion accessory for keeping your look on-trend and polished. Their sharp and slender design adds a touch of sassiness to any outfit.

With a heel height ranging from 2 to 4 inches, pin heels are sharp and thin, mimicking needles or small rods. 

They are stylish and versatile and can be worn with a little black dress for a classy look.

Platform Heels

As the name suggests, a platform heel is a high-heeled shoe with a platform at the sole.

With a heel height of 1 to 4 inches, these heels provide added style and comfort. This makes platform heels a versatile choice for both casual and formal outfits.

Platform heels are made using wood, rubber, leather, etc.

Whether you are wearing vibrant tights or pairing your platform heels with a skirt or dress, they always look stylish.

Sculptural Heels

Sculptural heels are a shoe style that’s characterized by their bold designs and creative flair.

These heels incorporate an asymmetrical, sculptural, or architectural element into the shoe’s heel. This gives these heels a one-of-a-kind look.

Whether you prefer a heel height of 2 inches or 4 inches, a pair of sculptural heels will suit your taste and style. These heels go great with flared pants, as the extra volume on the bottom balances out the volume on the top.

Spool Heels

Spool heels are a popular style of medium heel, dating back to the 1860s and 1950s.

Spool heels are typically 2-3 inches tall. They are wide at the top and bottom and narrower in the middle.

Spool heels are named after their resemblance to a spool of thread or an hourglass. They can be found on peep-toe pumps, mules, ankle strap heels, t strap heels, and other shoes.

When choosing an outfit to wear with spool heels, it is best to choose something classic. A pair of jeans or a maxi skirt/dress will look perfect with these heels.

Square Heels

Square heels are a type of heel that is square in shape, as the name suggests. These heels range from low to medium height, with most square heels falling somewhere in the middle.

One of the benefits of square heels is that they provide more stability than other heels. This makes them ideal for everyday wear.

Another benefit of these heels is that they can be found in various styles and materials. Whether you prefer classic pumps or edgy ankle boots, a pair of square heels will suit your taste.

Stiletto Heels

Stiletto heels or very high heels were first introduced in the 1950s. However, stilettos didn’t really catch on until the 1960s, when they became a symbol of feminine empowerment. Since then, they’ve been a staple in women’s fashion, appearing on everything from pumps to sandals to boots.

Stiletto heels are high-heeled shoes that feature a thin, long, and tapered heel. The heel height varies between a few and ten inches, depending on the wearer’s choice and style.

With its sharp, long, and thin shape, the stiletto heel can give the illusion of longer and slimmer legs.

Stilettos have a small diameter, usually less than half an inch. They are typically made of plastic, leather, wood, or metal.

Stiletto heels are available in a wide range of styles, from classic black pumps and boots to glittery party shoes and sandals. Whether you’re dressing for a special occasion or just want to add a touch of glamour to your everyday look, stiletto heels are always a chic choice.

Thick Cuban Heels

The thick Cuban heel is defined by its thick, chunky design, ranging from 2 to 4 inches.

Cuban heels are often made from materials like leather or patent leather. These heels can be found in various shoe styles, such as oxfords, loafers, and boots.

Pair your Cuban heels with a flared skirt or wide-leg trousers for a retro-inspired look. Or, for a more modern take on this classic style, try pairing them with skinny jeans or a fitted dress.

Wedge Heels

The wedge heel is a design that dates back to ancient Greece. Greek actors would wear shoes with wedge heels to signify their status in those days. Over time, the wedge heel became more colorful and outrageous, especially during the 1970s-1990s. 

Wedge heels are a type of heel extending from the back of the shoe to the front of the shank, forming a tread.

With a typically four inches high heel, wedge heels offer plenty of stability without sacrificing style or comfort. Wedge heels are also wider than typical heels, providing a more stable base for your foot. 

Wedges can be made from various materials, including rubber, wood, cork, etc.

Wedge heels are found on many different shoes, including ankle strap wedges, platform wedges, and closed-toe wedges.

When selecting an outfit to wear with wedges, it is best to choose a dress or skirt with a flared silhouette. This will help balance out the shoe’s width and create a flattering look.

Types Of Heels For Men

The most popular types of heels for men include:

Chunky heels

Chunky heels are a stylish footwear option for men, and they can be found on boots, oxfords, derby shoes, and more.

At a height of 1.5 to 3 inches, these heels provide a fashionable lift without being too high or uncomfortable.

These heels are perfect for a sleek and sophisticated or rugged and casual look.

Cuban heels

Cuban heels are a popular choice for men who want to add a stylish touch to their footwear.

With a heel height ranging from 1 to 3 inches, these types of heels are ideal for different styles and outfits.

Cuban heels can be found on various shoes, including cowboy boots, Chelsea boots, and oxfords. They are usually made from leather or patent leather and can be found in multiple colors.

Heels Based On Materials/Outer Covering

Cork Heels

The cork heel is a type of high heel made from cork material.

This sustainable material is environmentally friendly and provides a unique look. Cork high heels can be found in various styles, from classic pumps to strappy sandals.

Cork heels are often used as an alternative to leather or suede and are a great way to add interest to any outfit. If you’re looking for something different from the usual stiletto or kitten heel, consider giving cork heels a try.

Heel Inserts

Heel inserts are shoe inserts that can add height to the wearer.

They are designed to be inserted inside the shoe and can typically add around 1.5 to 2 inches. Heel inserts are available in various materials, including gel, foam, and Air-filled plastic.

They can be purchased at most shoe stores and are usually relatively inexpensive.

Heel inserts can be a great way to add height without wearing high heels, which can be uncomfortable or difficult to walk in. However, it is important to ensure that the heel insert fits well inside the shoe, as it can cause rubbing and discomfort.

Leather Heels

Leather heels get their name because of their construction using leather.

Leather heels can be found in high, mid, and low heel options, allowing you to choose the heel that best suits your needs. Mid-heel leather shoes are a versatile option. Likewise, low-heel leather shoes are a comfortable option for everyday wear, and high-heel leather shoes are perfect for special occasions.

Leather heels look great with a pair of denim, making them the perfect choice for a casual day out.

Lucite Heels

Lucite heels are popular high heels known for their clear or transparent appearance.

Lucite heels typically range in height from 2 to 4 inches. These types of heels are usually made from polycarbonate, lucite, acrylic resin, or another suitable material. They are most often found on shoes with ankle straps, slides, etc.

Because of their versatile and elegant design, lucite heels are a fashionable choice for party dresses or any other outfit. Whether paired with tights or worn as a bold finish to a pair of jeans, these heels are the perfect accessory for any modern fashionista.

Patent Leather Heels

These heels are made from patent leather, a shiny, smooth leather.

This type of material can be found in a variety of heel types, including high heels, stilettos, and kitten heels.

Patent leather heels are perfect for special occasions because of their shiny and dressy appearance.

Pairing patent leather heels with a little black dress is the perfect way to create a chic and elegant look.

Stacked Heels

The stacked heel is a heel style defined by its distinctive look and unique construction.

Made of layers of leather, this type of heel is typically tall and thick, with heights ranging anywhere from two to four inches. Its shape can vary depending on the shoe style. Materials used in the construction of stacked heels include leather and suede.

Stacked heels are most often found on cowboy boots and loafers, though they may also be seen on other types of footwear. This stylish heel provides an effortlessly chic look when paired with jeans or dress trousers.

Suede Heels

Suede heels are a type of heel made from suede, a soft and velvety kind of leather.

This material can be found in many different heel types, including block heels, comma heels, cone heels, stilettos, etc.

Suede heels are perfect for creating a casual and chic look. Pairing suede heels with jeans or a denim skirt is the perfect way to achieve this look.

Thermoplastic Heels

Thermoplastic heels are a type of high heel that is made from thermoplastic materials, like PVC.

This type of heel can be found at various heights, from two to four inches. Thermoplastic heels are most often found on shoes with ankle straps or slides.

Because of their versatile and elegant design, thermoplastic heels are a fashionable choice for party dresses.

Whether paired with tights or worn as a bold finish to a pair of jeans, these heels are just perfect.

Wooden Heels

Wooden heels are a type of heel that is made from wood. This environmentally friendly material provides a unique look to any shoe style.

Wooden heels can be found in a variety of styles, including classic pumps, block heels, and wedge sandals.

Wood heels are perfect for creating a natural and earthy look. These are often used as an alternative to leather or suede and are a great way to add interest to any outfit.

Pairing wood heels with a flowy dress or skirt is the perfect way to achieve an eye-catching look.

Heels In The Past

Chopines

Chopines were a type of platform heel popular in the 15th and 16th centuries.

They were often made from wood or cork, and they had a variety of purposes. For one, they helped to define the status of the wearer. The higher the chopine, the higher the status of the wearer.

In addition, they were also used as a form of protection from mud and water.

Kothorni Heels

Kothorni were a type of thick-soled heel worn by actors in ancient Greece.

Kothorni heels were first developed around 200 BC. They quickly became popular for adding height and creating an imposing silhouette.

Kothorni were typically made with wooden or cork bases, which could be up to four inches thick. This added to the shoe’s height and made it easier for the actor to balance on stage. In addition, the thick soles helped to protect the feet from nails and other sharp objects that might be found on the set.

Today, kothorni heels are best known as the inspiration for modern platform heels.

FAQs

Which types of heels are most comfortable?

In general, the shorter the heel, the more comfortable it is.

Some types of heels that are generally considered more comfortable than others include kitten heels, block heels, and wedges. 

Kitten heels are a type of heel that is shorter and has a smaller base, which makes them less likely to cause pain or discomfort.

Block heels are another type of heel that is comfortable for many people as they provide more support than other heels.

Similarly, wedges are also quite comfortable as they distribute your weight evenly across the foot.

The main thing to look for in any heel is comfort. If a heel feels unstable or like it’s going to collapse beneath you, it’s probably not the most comfortable choice. But as long as you can walk without pain or wobbling, you should be good to go.

What types of heels are best for beginners?

When it comes to choosing the perfect heel, it is important to consider both style and comfort.  There are a lot of different options of heels to choose from.

If you’re just getting started with wearing heels, it’s a good idea to start with block heels or chunky heels.

These styles provide a boost in height without sacrificing much stability. Additionally, they are more comfortable to walk in than stilettos or other slim heels. 

Of course, there is no hard and fast rule when it comes to choosing the right heels, and ultimately it is up to each individual to decide what works best for them. With a little trial and error, anyone can find the perfect heels to suit their needs.

Which types of heels are best for dancing?

For dancing, it is best to choose heels that are comfortable and stable.

Block heels or chunky heels are a good option, as they provide both height and stability. Wedges are also a good choice for dancing, as they offer similar benefits.

Stilettos should be avoided when dancing, for they can be difficult to balance and are more likely to cause injury. 

As with any type of shoe, it is important to break in your shoes before wearing them for an extended period of time, such as dancing. This will help to avoid blisters and other types of discomfort.

Conclusion

So there you have it, a complete guide to the types of heels.

Now that you know all about the different types of heels, which one will you choose? Will you go for a classic stiletto or something more unique like lucite or cork?

Whatever your choice may be, we hope this guide has helped you narrow down the options and find the perfect heel for you.