7 Types of High Heels You Need in Your Rotation

No footwear collection is complete without a good pair of high heels. While sneakers and ballet flats may be the most used pieces in your wardrobe, it’s important to have a few high heels in your rotation to elevate a look, and not just in the literal sense. 

High heels are most often worn for formal occasions, after all, a pointed-toe stiletto was made for a fancy dinner date. However, high heels aren’t just for stepping out on the town. They can also complement (and upgrade) a more casual look when styled right. Kitten heels with a T-shirt and jeans? You’ll be the best-dressed person at your weekly girls’ brunch. Ankle boots with a sweater and leggings? It’s the perfect winter outfit for running a few errands. Truly versatile high heels will make it easy to transition a look from day to night, giving you maximum wearability out of your footwear.

Ahead, we rounded up seven essential high heels you should add to your collection–that is if you don’t have them in your closet already.

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Kitten Heels

On those days when your feet simply can’t handle stilettos, you’ll be happy to have a pair of kitten heels in your closet. They’re comfortable, easy to walk in, and still add a sophisticated elegance to an outfit. “Kitten heels are one of my favorite ways to dress up any day-to-night look, especially if I want to feel a bit more elevated,” says stylist and personal shopper Ashley Jebran. “Try pairing them with loose-fitting jeans, a fitted tee, and a cropped cardigan for a modern, minimalist aesthetic.” A sleek black pair will go with everything, but if you prefer for your footwear to stand out, reach for ones in a vibrant hue.

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Pointed-Toe Pumps

“A lot of people have this misconception that pointed-toe pumps are ‘office shoes,’ but I’m here to tell you, they are a closet staple must-have,” says Jebran. “Their sleek silhouette and elongating effect make them perfect for dresses, skirts, or pants.” While black or beige patent leather pumps are a sleek choice and offer maximum wearability, Jebran instead suggests opting for pumps “with contrasting details or luxurious materials,” such as satin, suede, or mesh. An interesting texture will elevate the timeless silhouette for a shoe you can style with everything from straight-leg trousers to a strapless midi dress.

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Knee-High Boots

Knee-high boots are a fall and winter staple that no closet would be complete without. Jebran calls this style a “true must-have for mini skirt enthusiasts” as they can “add a touch of edgy glamour to any ensemble.” For knee-high boots with maximum comfort that don’t sacrifice style, she suggests reaching for ones with a chunky block heel. Though this type of heel can often fall on the more formal side, they can also be dressed down for a casual daytime outing. Jebran recommends pairing knee-high boots with “an oversized knit sweater, a mini skirt, and a blazer for a sophisticated yet relaxed look.”

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Ankle Boots

Another cold-weather staple is the ankle boot. Thanks to its short length, you can fit this sleek option over a pair of leggings or under a wide-leg trouser. “In the fall and winter, I usually wear chunkier and looser outfits that I often get lost in. These versatile boots will fix that and add some height and poise to any outfit,” says Jebran. Available in a range of heel heights, you can pick a pair that best suits your needs, from a kitten heel to a stiletto. Heel height aside, Jebran suggests pairing your ankle boots with an oversized leather jacket and tailored mom jeans for a cool and edgy look.

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Open-Toe Mules

Add a pair of open-toe mules to your closet for a perfect alternative to flat slip-on sandals that will give you just the right amount of height. Jebran says these are her go-to shoes for a look that feels “elevated yet laidback and cool.” Even with an open-toe silhouette, you can bring this mule style into the colder months. Jebran suggests pairing mules with cargo pants and a cropped oversized jacket. For the summer, create the ultimate vacation look by styling your mules with a maxi dress or a crochet set.

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Slingbacks

If you’re considering adding one sexy shoe silhouette to your rotation, it has to be a slingback stiletto. This shoe has a timeless silhouette that will carry you through every season but can also be found in bold designs, from buckle embellishments to metallic hardware. Despite the sultry nature of slingbacks, you can pair the shoe with nearly any outfit. They look just as good with a T-shirt and jeans as they do with a bodycon dress. For an ultra-cool girls’ night outfit, Jebran recommends styling your slingbacks with wide-leg leather trousers and a black blazer.

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Platform Heels

“If traditional heels are too uncomfortable for you, platforms are the perfect alternative,” says Jebran. “While they are the most comfortable and supportive heel on the market, they always look good too.” The chunky silhouette of platforms makes them a breeze to walk in—yes, even if you’re donning a 4-inch pair—and, as a bonus, they will subtly elongate your legs. “The best way to pair them is either with a super flowy boho-style dress or even with longer trousers/jeans that need that extra lift to show off their style,” explains Jebran.