Women’s high heels are a must-have in every woman’s wardrobe. They can elongate legs, dress up an outfit, and even give the illusion that you are taller than you are.
They’re also not all that comfortable. Rigorous scientific studies have shown that heels can cause long-term damage, such as lumbar spine flattening and unwelcome increased pressure on the feet. For more womens high heels, check this out.
Mary Jane
The Mary Jane was a staple in the ’90s thanks to the mod fashion movement and grunge trends, but it’s enjoying another era of popularity. From flats to manageable heel heights, they’re a fall shoe for fashion mavens, including Gigi Hadid and Zoe Kravitz. And with various colourways and styles, it’s easy to see why.
Originally named after the character in Buster Brown comic strips, the Mary Jane is usually a closed-toe shoe with a single strap across the instep. Whether you’re channelling Twiggy or Alexa Chung’s coquettish twist on the style, you can’t go wrong with a sleek black pair that’ll complement your favourite outfits. For instance, this strappy woven style by Sam Edelman looks like a classic but with a modern twist.
Pumps
The term “pump” refers to a specific style of high-heeled shoe often worn in a formal or business setting. This category’s heel typically features a closed toe, a single colour, no platform and no buckles or laces. The heel height is also usually higher than others and can range from 2 to 4 inches.
Heels in this category are arguably the most common type of high heels in the world, and they come in various shapes, colours and styles. Heels in this category are ideal for women who want to elongate their legs and add a bit of drama to their outfits.
While we often associate high heels with femininity, the trend began as a men’s shoe. Men in the 1700s wore Venetian chopines, or stiletto heels as they were known, to show off their wealth and status. This footwear quickly became a sartorial symbol of feminity and was used in erotic photography to show the curve of the female instep.
Mules
Whether paired with a classic shift dress or wide-leg trousers, mules are the perfect shoes to take any outfit to the next level. With various heel heights, including block heels, mule sandals, and mule slippers, they are perfect for everything from summer weddings to easy days spent around the house.
While some women find them uncomfortable to wear, many people enjoy how a heeled shoe adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to any outfit. There are several biological and evolutionary reasons why high heels instinctively make women look more attractive, and we all know that a well-chosen shoe is vital to any ensemble.
However, with so many different styles and heel heights, it cannot be easy to decipher all the shoe lingo. Fortunately, we’re here to help you navigate all things heel. Read on to learn more about all the different types of heels, from strappy heels that are perfect for a cocktail party to d’Orsay pumps that elevate formal attire. For more womens high heels, check this out.
Open Toes
A sexy open-toe heel is the perfect look for fall. With no slingback or trap to get in the way, these heels feature wider openings that showcase all your toes and even some flesh. They are great for showing off your favourite tights or bold colours when you walk out into the chilly breeze this season.
They are also easy to slip on, so you can quickly grab a pair and go. Whether you’re headed out to the mall or the dreamiest wedding, these heels are an excellent way to accentuate your elegant look.
Women’s high heels have long symbolised femininity, power and sexiness. Despite their often uncomfortable design and propensity to cause foot problems, they are a beloved part of many women’s wardrobes. Studies have shown that men perceive a woman in heels as more attractive. It is because the heels adjust lumbar curvature, increase pelvic tilt, and extend the legs to appear longer.