Heels can make or break an outfit. The right pair adds polish, height, and confidence, while the wrong pair can throw off proportions or make an ensemble feel mismatched. Whether you’re aiming for elegance, edginess, or just a little extra height, understanding different heel styles and how to pair them with outfits is key.

Types of Heels & How to Style Them

1. Stilettos – The Ultimate Power Move

• What They Are: Stilettos are the highest and sleekest of heels, typically over three inches with a thin, tapered design.
• Best For: Evening wear, formal events, power dressing
• How to Style: A go-to for cocktail dresses, sleek trousers, and structured blazers. For a modern take, pair them with straight-leg jeans and a fitted top.

2. Block Heels – Chic & Comfortable

• What They Are: A thicker, chunkier heel that distributes weight more evenly, making them easier to walk in.
• Best For: Work outfits, daytime events, casual chic looks
• How to Style: Great with midi skirts, wide-leg trousers, or even a flowy summer dress. They balance out oversized silhouettes and add a sophisticated touch to everyday wear.

3. Kitten Heels – The Effortlessly Elegant Choice

• What They Are: A small, slender heel usually around 1.5 inches—perfect for subtle elevation.
• Best For: Work, casual elegance, vintage-inspired outfits
• How to Style: Perfect with cropped trousers, pencil skirts, or a little black dress for a timeless, Audrey Hepburn-inspired look.

4. Wedges – Comfortable Height

• What They Are: A heel that extends under the entire sole, providing more support and comfort than stilettos.
• Best For: Casual outfits, summer events, beach vacations
• How to Style: Pair with sundresses, linen pants, or a relaxed jumpsuit for effortless summer chic.

5. Platform Heels – Retro & Bold

• What They Are: A heel with an extra lift at the front of the shoe, making high heels more comfortable.
• Best For: Statement looks, night-out outfits, bold fashion moments
• How to Style: Think ‘70s disco with wide-leg pants, or go full Y2K with a mini skirt and a fitted crop top.

6. Slingback Heels – Classic & Feminine

• What They Are: A heel with a strap that wraps around the back of the ankle, offering a secure yet elegant fit.
• Best For: Office wear, brunch dates, polished daytime looks
• How to Style: Works beautifully with tailored pieces like cigarette pants or structured skirts. A timeless pick for Parisian-inspired dressing.

7. Mules – The Slip-On Sophisticate

• What They Are: A backless heel that can come in various heights, from low kitten styles to high platforms.
• Best For: Easy elegance, transitional dressing, off-duty chic
• How to Style: Ideal with cropped denim, midi skirts, or monochrome ensembles for a minimalist yet high-fashion appeal.

8. Ankle Strap Heels – Secure & Stylish

• What They Are: A heel with a strap wrapping around the ankle, adding stability and a touch of femininity.
• Best For: Date nights, weddings, dressy occasions
• How to Style: Flattering with A-line skirts, slip dresses, or flowy maxi dresses. If you want to elongate the leg, opt for a nude pair that blends with your skin tone.

9. Mary Jane Heels – A Playful Twist on Classic Style

• What They Are: A heel with a rounded toe and a strap across the instep, often exuding a vintage or preppy feel.
• Best For: Feminine, playful, or retro outfits
• How to Style: Works well with tights and a-line dresses for a mod-inspired look, or pair with a structured suit for a modern contrast.

10. Sculptural & Statement Heels – Art for Your Feet

• What They Are: Heels with unique shapes, unexpected cutouts, or artistic elements.
• Best For: Fashion-forward outfits, editorial moments, stand-out styling
• How to Style: Let the shoes be the focus—keep the rest of the outfit sleek and neutral or complement the artistic vibe with avant-garde silhouettes.

How to Pick the Right Heel for Your Outfit

Match the Mood of Your Outfit

• Sleek stilettos elevate a power suit or a formal dress.
• Playful Mary Janes or kitten heels add charm to vintage-inspired looks.
• Chunky block heels balance out oversized pieces and casual outfits.

Consider the Occasion

• Office? Stick to mid-height block heels, kitten heels, or slingbacks.
• Wedding or gala? Stilettos, ankle-strap heels, or elegant mules work best.
• Weekend brunch? Wedges, block heels, or stylish Mary Janes keep it casual yet polished.

Think About Proportions

• Wide-leg pants pair well with platforms or block heels to create balance.
• Mini skirts or cropped pants shine with ankle-strap or slingback heels.
• If wearing bold colors or prints, let neutral-toned heels ground the look.

Prioritize Comfort When Needed

• If you’ll be on your feet all day, opt for wedges, block heels, or platforms.
• Avoid ultra-thin stilettos for long hours unless you’re comfortable walking in them.

Use Heels to Add Personality

• Metallic finishes, bows, flowers, or sculptural details can make a simple outfit stand out.
• Vibrant colors add a playful pop to monochrome looks.

The right heel transforms your outfit and boosts your confidence. Whether you’re reaching for a stiletto, a slingback, or a sculptural statement heel, the key is to consider proportion, occasion, and your personal style. Heels aren’t just about adding height—they’re about making a statement with every step.

What’s your go-to heel style? Let me know how you love to style your favorite pair! 

By Julia Belian