The Best Heels

High heels are an easy way to boost your confidence in an instant. From picking out a pair to wear to the office every day to choosing the right shoes to add a "wow" factor for formal occasions, heels can make or break any outfit. But with so many different styles, colors, materials, and patterns out there, it can be an overwhelming task to find a new pair to add to your shoe collection.

What to Look For

When you’re shopping for new heels, we suggest focusing on three key qualities: heel height, quality of the materials, and versatility. With those factors informing our own search, we decided on a few favorites. For example, we love the Dream Pairs heels for their versatile, strappy design that can be worn with almost anything. Alternatively, Cape Robbin’s stilettos are a sexier option, making them the ideal shoes for date night or cocktail events to make a statement. Explore these and our other favorite heels to find your perfect pair.

Dream Pairs Low Heel Pump Sandals

Tried and true

This classic block heel sandal is a style you can wear anywhere.
Best Overall

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This strappy sandal is a versatile pair of shoes worth adding to your wardrobe. Made with a comfortable block heel, each sandal has a thin ankle strap for a delicate and feminine look. An adjustable buckle allows you to achieve the perfect fit, while the rubber sole gives you sure footing on any surface. You can wear these with jeans for a casual look or pair them with a cocktail dress to elevate your ensemble.

Pros:

  • We love that the shoes are offered in different colors and fabrics, so you can find the perfect match for any outfit.
  • Even though they have a three-inch heel, the block style makes them comfortable enough to wear from morning until night.

Cons:

  • They’re not well-suited for those with wide feet.

Ankis Open Toe Heels

Back to black

This pair of black strappy sandals effortlessly completes any outfit.
Best For Women

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These heels are a must-have for every discerning lady’s shoe collection. At 2.75 inches high,  the block heel is the perfect height to transition for any occasion. From brunch to date night and everything in between, these shoes are can easily pull together any look. Choose from a range of natural and metallic shades to find a pair that meshes with your existing wardrobe. That way, you can start wearing them right away.

Pros:

  • Even after hours on your feet, these shoes will remain comfortable thanks to the wide heel and cushioned insole.
  • The ankle strap is adjustable, ensuring you can find a comfortable fit that keeps the shoes secure.

Cons:

  • They may be a bit wide for those with narrow feet.

Allegra K High Chunky Heel

Around the block

A chunky block heel defines this versatile pair of shoes.
Best Chunky Heel Design

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This pair of neutral, faux suede heels will elongate your legs to make them look extra long. Perfect for parties, weddings, dates, and other formal events, these shoes are a pair you can wear over and over again with dozens of different outfits. From ball gowns to jeans, they’re a wardrobe workhorse that you can pair with almost anything. Plus, you can choose from a wide variety of colors to find your favorite.

Pros:

  • The faux suede material is soft and pliable, helping to prevent blisters and eliminate break-in time. That way, you can wear them right out of the box.
  • Because they have a thin, flexible sole, they’re comfortable enough to walk for hours. Even if you’re on your feet all day, they’ll keep you pain-free.

Cons:

  • They run large, so consider sizing down.

Cape Robbin Ada Stilleto High Heels

Strap in

This pair of strappy stilettos is a sexy and statement-making option.
Best Strappy Style

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These eye-catching shoes will instantly elevate any outfit. The leather straps criss-cross at both the toes and ankles, creating a sexy and sultry final look. The 4.5-inch stiletto heel adds amazing height, and the adjustable buckle allows you to get the perfect fit. Consider pairing them with a cocktail dress for a formal event, or wear them with jeans and a tee for date night to amp up your ensemble.

Pros:

  • We love that they come in neutral shades like black and nude as well as eye-catching colors like yellow and red.
  • The heels are made from high-quality materials for a style that will hold up, even after multiple wears.

Cons:

  • They may be too narrow for those with wide feet.

Clarks Linvale Jerica Pump

To the point

This pair of classic pumps gives you a professional edge.
Best Pointed Toe

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These black pointed-toe pumps are ideal for those who need a more understated style in their closet. The pointed toe adds polish, while the nearly two-inch heel adds the perfect amount of height. A cushioned insole also delivers hours of comfort, making them a great option for everyday wear at the office. Choose from classic black, snakeskin, red, and other versatile shades to find the right match for your closet.

Pros:

  • Despite the heels, it almost feels like you’re wearing flats with these pumps. They’re insanely comfortable, even after hours.
  • These heels can easily transition from professional events and conferences to more formal affairs, like cocktail parties, so you can wear them almost anywhere.

Cons:

  • The sizing is inconsistent with other Clarks-branded shoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are heels bad for your back?

When worn for extended periods, high heels can put stress on your body. If heels are too high, they can cause problems with both your stride and posture, which can lead to alignment issues in your back. Consider wearing a lower pair of heels or a block-style heel to minimize the impact.

How are heels supposed to fit?

When wearing heels, finding the right fit is integral to keeping your feet comfortable. When you first try on heels, they should be loose. After hours of wear, your feet will swell slightly, so you want to be sure you have a little bit of extra space. Ideally, you want about a quarter-inch to half-inch of space in the toes. They also should not pinch, rub, or squeeze your feet to help prevent blisters.

Do heels make you look taller?

Heels can help to elongate your leg, giving you the illusion of looking taller and slimmer — especially when worn in a nude shade.

About the Author

Hannah has always had an eye for fashion and beauty and is often inspired by the styles she sees on the streets of her beloved New York City. She closely follows the top fashion blogs and icons, and her goal is to help everyone look and feel their best through their clothing choices. Hannah’s work can be found in Boston Magazine, Hamptons Magazine, and more.

Why Trust Us

Since 2001, our experts at TheFashionSpot have been providing millions of people with our take on the latest trends. TheFashionSpot is constantly looking for the hottest styles in clothing and accessories for people of all body types. Our team knows that beauty starts well before the closet, so we are also dedicated to finding the best products for your skin and hair.