All-season and all-day, there are kitten heels for everything from work to play. Whether you're looking for the classic little black shoe or a new mule for spring, keep reading.
By Lauren Caruso & Maia Torres
Last Updated May 30, 2025
What Is a Kitten Heel?
Characterized by a short, thin stiletto heel between one and two inches in height, the kitten heel is a comfortable, stylish shoe that was made to help young women acclimate to adult footwear. Originally popularized in the ’50s, the style has weaved in and out of fashion, due to its versatile and easy-to-wear design. While kitten heels were initially limited to a thin or tapered heel, the classic shoe has informally expanded to refer to a variety of heel types. Think a stunted boulevard heel, hourglass-like spool heel, and even a stacked French heel.
Still, despite the shorter heel and new design, the low kitten heel isn’t guaranteed to be the most comfortable shoe. “The kitten heel might look more comfortable than a stiletto, but it’s still easy to slip when wearing them,” says Maud Barrionuevo, womenswear and menswear buyer for 24S. To be sure of comfort, she says to look for high-quality materials like genuine leather, a cushioned insole with enough support, and (if the shoe is closed-toe) a flexible toe box that moves with you to decrease the chance of arch pain.
It’s these qualities that we’ve taken into consideration when selecting the best kitten heels.
Best for Everyday: Strappy Slingback Kitten Heels
Everyday pick: Portia in Blush and Powder Pink
On the surface, strappy slingbacks might seem like a once-in-a-while kind of shoe. But what better way to breathe life into your capsule wardrobe than with a shoe that feels both of-the-moment and timeless? When looking for a slingback you can wear day in and out, construction is key—look for the kind of leather that's malleable and either soft from the get-go or able to be broken in.
Best for Spring: Colorful Kitten Heels
Colorful pick: Portia in Red
Come spring, there's nothing quite like boxing up your boots and slipping on a kitten heel—the brighter, the better. Whether you go for a mule, slingback, or pump, the itty-bitty heel is endlessly walkable and pairs with all the little gauzy dresses and cutoff capris emblematic of the season.
Best for Metallics
Metallic pick: Karlie in Platinum
Maybe it’s the natural polish or the fact that they pair effortlessly with diamond earrings, but metallics inherently evoke a nighttime feeling. Next time you have after-work plans, don’t carry an extra pair of heels in your bag; instead, don a pair of simple silver kitten heels that'll work in your favor as a day-to-night shoe.