We know you’re bored of hearing the phrase
“
fashion is cyclical,
”
but as we’ve sort of put
ultra-high heels
to bed for the time being, the kitten heel has reemerged as a wonderful alternative. The feminine style offers a dressed-up silhouette that you won’t want to kick off after a few hours.
Known for its curved low heel, the miniature stiletto has been around for centuries, but in terms of recent history, the low-heeled style rose to popularity in the
’
50s due largely to designer Roger Viver, preceding stints in the spotlight of both the
’
60s and
’
90s. According to an article in
CR Fashion Book
, “the name came about because the style was considered a training heel for ‘kittens,’ aka young girls not ready for grown women’s high-heel stilettos.” A symbol of timeless glamour, the low-heeled style has been favored by movie stars and first ladies alike.
Photo: GettyDesigners have begun to challenge the traditional silhouette of the kitten heel, too. What started as an attribute of a pump now transcends to sandals, boots, mules, flip-flops, and more. Recently, there have been a few incredibly iconic styles that shot across the fashion industry, like the Balenciaga Knife
Mules
, the Khaite Zebra
Boots
, and the Dior
Slingbacks
.
In my opinion, the coolest way to style them is to disregard all notions of their traditional pairings—the ultra-feminine silhouette needs something masculine to ground it. Think oversize silhouettes, denim, and boxy tailoring. You can also try implementing a little irony with contrasting statement materials like leather or sequins.
Shop Modern Updates of the Classic Style:
Kitten Heel Mule
Leather Slingback Pumps
Maelle Pumps
Croc-effect Leather Slingback Pumps
Leather Mules
Belle Vivier Buckled Patent-leather Mules
Maysale 50mm Buckle Pumps
Slingback Kitten Heel Pumps
Patent Leather Slingbacks
Eel Heel Sandals
Ava Kitten Heel Mules
Square Toe Leather Mules
Kitten-heel Boots
Toe Strap Kitten Heels
Lizzo Kitten Heel Bootie
Photos: Getty
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