The 5 Best Heels for Women

Most women probably have a pair or two or ten of high heels in their closet. There’s just something about a good heel that’s hard to resist. It turns a nice outfit into an amazing outfit and it automatically turns any walk into a serious runway-worthy strut. Heels can work wonders. The styles can range from sky high stilettos to more reasonable, wearable heels for a long workday. And some designs and finishes, like a patent pump, will never go out of style. There’s truly a heel for every mood or occasion.

Calvin Klein Brady Pump

Classic but not boring

This high heel style will never go out of style and for good reason.
Best Overall

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A shoe you can wear with anything can be pretty hard to find, but here you are. It’s the Brady heel from Calvin Klein. Made of 100 percent leather, the classic pump covers all your bases. It’s trendy with the pointy toe but also classic enough to be worn from work to weekend. Clocking in at a four inch heel, you’ll receive a much needed boost without totally falling over. The question isn’t what can you wear these heels with, but what can’t you wear them with? From skinny jeans to pencil skirts to trousers, they work with pretty much everything you have in your closet.

Pros:

  • Classic, sophisticated cut
  • Available in a range of colors and prints

Cons:

  • Go up half a size
  • Minimal padding on the foot bed

Dream Pairs Chunk Low Heel Pump Sandals

Comfort meets style

Stilettos will always be sexy, but when you need something that’s also easy on your feet? These heels do the job
Best Block Heel

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On those spring or summer days when you want your toes to breathe but you need a boost of height, Dream Pairs has a heel option. For anyone who’s ever attempted to walk for hours in a stiletto, then you know a chunky heel makes a world of difference. The block heel provides major stability without the clunkiness of a wedge. These come in a variety of fun colors so grab a pair (or two?) for the summer wedding you’ll be attending or for a heel that’s comfortable for a night on the town.

Pros:

  • Padded insole for additional comfort
  • The three inch heel height is comfortable and walkable for most

Cons:

  • The foot strap might be tight for wider feet

Clarks Adriel Viola Dress Pump

Shiny and chic

Without a patent heel, your shoe closet just isn’t complete.
Best Patent Pump

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There’s just something about a patent pump. The shininess means you don’t mind being seen but the classic cut means you’re all about your business. Clarks is known for their comfortable shoes and they added that comfort to a three inch heel with a .5 inch of platform support. The addition of an ortholite footbed means feet stay cool and comfy, even after you’ve been standing or walking for long periods of time. The rounded toe on these heels would look amazing with your favorite go-to dress or skinny jeans.

Pros:

  • The insole features cushion soft comfort
  • The heel height is comfortable for most people
  • 100 percent leather exterior

Cons:

  • Wider feet may need to order a half size up

Lala Ikai Gold High Heels with Rhinestone Ankle Strappy Heels

Not for the meek

There’s no way you won’t be noticed once you step into these killer heels.
Best Party Heel

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After you have your classic pump or work heel, it’s time to add a party heel to your cart. It doesn’t get any better than this pair from Lala Ikai. It has all the elements you could want and more. There’s the heel that measures in at just over four inches, the multilayer adjustable gold ankle straps and who can ignore that heel. Though it’s a thicker block heel, the rhinestone details is what really steals the show. You’ll turn heads from every which direction when you step out at night or for a fun party. These would look great with a mini skirt or dress so the shoe is completely on display.

Pros:

  • Adjustable straps
  • Statement shoe for a party night or special occasion

Cons:

  • Runs slightly large
  • Not for extended wear

Cape Robbin Clear Chunky Block High Heels

Hot stepper in lucite

You may not be wearing this heel 5 years from now but in the moment, they’re straight fire.
Best Trendy

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What used to be called stripper shoes are now just super trendy heels fashionistas enjoy wearing. The clear straps blend into all skin tones and the lucite block heel will give the illusion of an invisible heel, kind of like you’re floating on air. At four inches and with no built in platform, these heels are for the woman who are no amateur to the high heel life.

Pros:

  • The ankle buckle strap keeps feet secure
  • Affordable version of higher end shoes that are a similar style

Cons:

  • The toe strap can feel tight for narrow feet or after extended wear
  • The clear strap can cause feet to get sweaty

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can you wear high heels?

The length you wear high heels for can greatly depend on how used you are to heels and your activities. Some heels are great for walking to and from the car and others might hold up for a night of dancing. It depends on your tolerance and the heel height.

Are high heels good for your feet?

Extended wear of really high heels can definitely cause foot pain, calluses and maybe even extended nerve damage. It’s best to not wear really high heels for long periods of time and give your feet a rest.

What is a block high heel?

While a stiletto high heel has a pointy design, the block heel provides a sturdier base for walking. As the name suggests, the heel is shaped like a block, and gives you more stability and distributes your weight evenly.