The Great Kitten Heel Debate: Should Women Wear Them? (2024)

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The Great Kitten Heel Debate: Should Women Wear Them?

The Great Kitten Heel Debate: Should Women Wear Them? (1)

Published Jul 13, 2012

Modified Jul 23, 2012

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The Great Kitten Heel Debate: Should Women Wear Them? (2)

The Great Kitten Heel Debate: Should Women Wear Them? (3)

Published Jul 13, 2012

Modified Jul 23, 2012

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When we asked the men of GNTLMN for some tips for New Yorkers, they added one for the ladies, too: do not wear kitten heels, ever. The site's co-founder Wesley Verhoeve even went on to tell us, "My favorite quote about women's shoes is 'kitten heels are the mullet of shoes.' The problem is that all they are is comfortable, while doing nothing to lengthen the leg... and if comfort is important then wear cute flats!" This kitten heel comment turned out to be as controversial as their firm stance against square-toed shoes for men, so we took to the streets and the fashionable ladies of a few glossy mags to see where women come down on the kitten heel issue.

Alexis Swerdloff of Paper Magazine says, "The phrase 'kitten heels' makes my skin crawl the same way a word like "panties" does... The bottom line is that they are just not that flattering—and generally make a normal, nice leg look kind of stubby. That said, I never love a 'should not' when it comes to fashion, and if someone feels like sporting a generally unflattering, stumpy heel—more power to her!"

Faran Krentcil of Nylon Magazine echoed the sentiment, saying, "It's hard to say 'never' in fashion—there's enough variety out there that many trends, kitten heels included, can look quite cool. Personally, I'm a big fan of Calvin Klein and Diane von Furstenberg's leopard print versions, which look killer peeking out of a wide-leg jean or even with a red wool pencil skirt and a plain white tee. It's true kitten heels can easily go wrong, especially if they've got over-the-top ornaments like frilly bows on them."

The Great Kitten Heel Debate: Should Women Wear Them? (4)
Photo by Rachel Pincus/Gothamist

This afternoon we took to the streets of SoHo to ask women what they thought of the style, here are some of their thoughts:

  • "Hate them." - Australian girls
  • "They're different. If they go with your outfit, they could work." - Allie from Long Island
  • Older women tend to buy them—aged 30 or 40. I don’t wear kitten heels. I’m really short so if I choose to wear heels, they have to be really high." - Nube, a salesperson at Forecast Footwear (from the Bronx)
  • Teenage girl from Connecticut: “I don’t like kitten heels and wouldn’t wear them. If other people wear
    them, I wouldn’t judge them for it, but they have to work it!”
  • “All heels look good. I love a woman in heels.” - Bored-looking boyfriend waiting on girlfriend in Top Shop
  • “I’ve actually rolled my ankle every time I wore them. And I just don’t think they’re flattering. Yeah, they look good on Mad Men, but I just hate them.”
  • "I just recently switched to kitten heels. I'm 27 and I'm starting to realize many of my aunts have knee and ankle problems from walking in flats. I see a lot of people who can't walk in their platform shoes around the Upper East Side. It's like, why would you walk in them if you don't have to? Also, part of the reason I only switched now is that I'm from California, and there it's like, you take off a shoe, you get in your car and drive, and when you're on the way to work you might be standing up for a total of 50 feet." - Kate from Upper East Side
  • "These are a decade old. I got them in Venice. Have you ever tried to walk down a cobblestone street in high heels? Some kitten heels are not very attractive. These are glam and very comfortable, though. If it weren't for shoes like this, women would be killing themselves. I'm a photojournalist, however, and when I'm actually out in the field I wear combat boots." - Carol Allen Storey, who was wearing kitten heels

Feel free to log your opinion on this Important Fashion Matter below:

Additional reporting from Rachel Pincus and Alexandra Shytsman.

The Great Kitten Heel Debate: Should Women Wear Them? (5)

Jen Carlson is a former WNYC and Gothamist editor.

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The Great Kitten Heel Debate: Should Women Wear Them? (2024)

FAQs

Why do women wear kitten heels? ›

Kitten heel shoes are comfortable to wear and are an excellent choice for those who want a little height but do not want to sacrifice comfort. The kitten heel, typically ranging from 1.5 to 2 inches in height, provides just the right amount of height without sacrificing comfort.

Are kitten heels for old ladies? ›

Oviously, the answer is No. Kitten heels are not solely for older ladies, because it´s for everyone. If you love wearing nice strapless mini dresses, try them with a pair of kitten heels.

Are kitten heels appropriate for work? ›

A classic court-style kitten heel is super appropriate for a work setting, since it's comfier and more covered than a mule or slingback. Opt for a black leather or suede pair if your workplace dress code is on the formal side, or go bold in a fuchsia or leopard print pair for a fun look that stands out.

Are kitten heels better for your feet? ›

Kitten heels are a good-looking, foot-friendly option for heel wearers. With a heel height typically less than one inch, kitten heels deliver a bit of height without the pressure that higher heels can cause. Be extra careful when wearing platforms or wedges, as these styles can compromise your balance and stability.

Why do girls always wear heels? ›

They are worn to elongate legs, dress up an outfit, and even give the illusion that a woman is taller than she actually is. Heels come in all shapes and sizes and though they may often be regarded as uncomfortable, are undeniably present in modern day society.

Why do girls wear open toed heels? ›

On a more practical note, open-toes allow the feet to breathe, reducing sweatiness, and reducing risks of skin problems that come with sweaty feet. Even peep-toes leave the toes slightly exposed, where sweatiness can be the worst. Open-toes, particularly with strappy shoes, can also be more comfortable.

Are kitten heels matronly? ›

Considered matronly and lowbrow by men (who don't have to wear stilettos), the kitten heel is enjoying a colorful resurgence.

Can I wear kitten heels with skinny jeans? ›

If you want to make your skinny jeans look especially chic and sophisticated, choose a pair of slingbacks. Kitten-heel styles are particularly trendy (yet classic at the same time).

Can short girls wear kitten heels? ›

Kitten heels are another great option for petites when you are looking for comfort, but want it combined with a little height. Kitten heels are usually two inches in height or under. They usually have a nice curved shape to them.

Who wears kitten heels? ›

They were sometimes referred to as "trainer heels" in the US, indicating their use in getting young girls used to wearing high heels. However, by the early 1960s, they became fashionable for older teenagers and eventually for women of all ages.

Are kitten heels making a comeback? ›

Well we have news: they're trending again in 2022 and now you won't want to take them off. The low-heeled styles have been slowly popping up in fashion shows and in insiders' wardrobes for years. But the trend has truly exploded this year, making an appearance on the runways at labels like The Row and Khaite.

Are kitten heels harder to walk in? ›

Kitten heels are a small step up from flats, but compared to sky-high stilettos, they're easier for walking, balancing, and wearing throughout the night.

What is the best heel height for healthy feet? ›

The average heel height is around 3 inches, or 7.5cm. This falls into the mid-height range, which usually measures in at 2-3 inches, or 5-7.5cm. This is the most classic heel height, and mid-height heels should be comfortable enough to wear all day.

Is low heel better than kitten heel? ›

The lower block heel is ideal for women who are looking to walk or stand in them for a long period of time, and are ideal for outdoor wear. However, the lower block heel is typically less formal, so if you need a shoe for your big office presentation, the kitten heel might be a better option.

Do guys like it when girls wear heels? ›

Yes! Most of the men screamed the answer out right away. Men love it when a woman wears high heels. The best answer I had from a male friend was that he feels privileged and honored when his woman takes the time to make herself look sexy for him, and also wears high heels when they go out.

Why do guys like girls in heels? ›

Men find the shoes attractive not because they are glamorous or give the illusion of longer legs but because they make a woman arch her back – which is a signal that she is ready for sex, a study suggests.

Why do girls look hot in heels? ›

“[A] woman's walk [is perceived] as more attractive when she's wearing heels, due to the heels changing lumbar curvature, exaggerating the chest and hips, and increasing pelvic tilt,” explains an article on PsyPost.

What do high heels say about a woman? ›

Heels make women appear confident, taller, and attractive. It also improves their gait and accentuates their feminine trait. According to multiple research and observations, women in heels tend to appear more feminine and attractive than those in flat shoes.

Should a woman wear heels? ›

Studies show that wearing heels strengthens the ankle joints and muscles and as such, reduces the chance of women developing arthritis here when they age. Women do tend to have more issues with their legs than men as they age and it was long suspected that heels were the cause of the issue.

When should girls be allowed to wear heels? ›

Dr. Ramona Brooks, one time spokeswoman for the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), told Footwear News that you shold wait until kids are between 14 and 16 years old — if not longer—to try out that first pair of high heels.

How comfortable are kitten heels? ›

You can't beat a practical shoe, and the low heel height of the kitten heel makes them a fabulously comfortable option for all-day wear-- while their versatility means you can wear them from day to night, summer to winter and to casual or formal events.

What does kitten heels mean in slang? ›

kitten heel. noun. a low stiletto heel on a woman's shoe. a woman's shoe with a low stiletto heel.

What is the difference between kitten and stiletto heels? ›

Kitten heels are a type of heel defined by their height: less than 3 inches tall. Stilettos are, along with their width, also defined by their height: more than 2/3inches tall (depending on who you ask!). Kitten heels can be any shape and width.

Are skinny jeans still in style 2023? ›

Fortunately for millennials the world over, the answer to the question "Are skinny jeans still in style?" is a resounding "yes!" — even if TikTok tells you otherwise. Granted, the best skinny jeans of 2023 have evolved since the late aughts. For one, the skinny jean silhouette has softened.

Can you wear socks with kitten heels? ›

You don't need stilettos to stand out. Kitten heels paired with vibrant socks pump things up a notch.

What kind of heels should short people wear? ›

Classic pumps will make legs appear longer, slimmer, and shapelier too, so they're an excellent choice for short women. If the pumps have a pointed toe, all the better because pointed toes elongate and make petites look taller. A V-shaped vamp can also help add to a longer look.

Can a 5 6 girl wear heels? ›

Yes ! There is no height limit for wearing heels , you could be 7ft , if you want to wear heels , go for it !

Can a 5 7 girl wear heels? ›

Absolutely! Wearing heels has nothing to do with your height.

Can you dance in kitten heels? ›

The next thing to consider when dancing in heels is to pick low-height heels. As mentioned above, stilettos are unlikely to offer you the support you need to dance the night away. Low-height heels like kitten heels could be a good place to start.

Are kitten heels popular? ›

Sleek smoking loafers, chic pairs of sneakers, the Mary Jane, even the occasional Birkenstock—there is a slew of shoes vying for our attention right now. But the one pair that's really ticking all the boxes for spring? Kitten heels. Yes, really.

What toe shape is in style 2023? ›

The square toe shoe trend is back in fashion for 2023.

What heels are in style 2023? ›

Slingback heels are a classic shoe trend that's reemerging in 2023. The silhouette of this heel type usually consists of a strap around the back of the ankle and a pointed toe. This alone is enough to elevate any outfit, whether you pair them with plaid trousers or a flared jean.

Are flats in style 2023? ›

(ICYMI: Ballet flats are one of the biggest shoe trends for Spring/Summer 2023.) While leather versions have trended in the past, balletcore-inspired flats are everywhere for the seasons ahead.

What is a Cuban heel? ›

: a broad medium-high heel with a moderately curved back.

What heel height is hard to walk in? ›

Anything greater than four inches should be paired with a platform to help reduce the ball-of-foot pressure," says Dr. Javed. "As the heel height increases, the more the foot slips forward. This causes the toes to grip harder for balance, inverting the foot, and causing the ankle to become unstable.

What do kitten heels go with? ›

Add a fitted t-shirt for a cute and casual look. Leather pants and an oversized knit: Combine a red-hot pair of leather pants with your kitten heels to take the world by storm. Faux leather pants are perfect for heating up your wardrobe in winter, particularly with a pair of kitten heels to keep you looking sharp.

Are kitten heels frumpy? ›

Kitten heels are notorious for looking frumpy or juvenile, but this season they're actually a hot trend. Here's exactly how to wear them.

What height is considered a kitten heel? ›

What are kitten heels? Kitten heels are typically only between 1.5 and 2 inches tall, with a short and tapered heel, making them a perfect heel for beginners.

Is 3 inches a kitten heel? ›

KITTEN HEELS

Kitten-heel shoes generally range between 1.5 and 2 inches in height, making them among the shortest heel shapes.

Are kitten heels healthy? ›

Kitten heels are a great option for those who want to wear heels without compromising their foot health. With a heel height typically less than one inch, kitten heels offer a bit of height without the pressure that higher heels can cause.

How do you rock kitten heels? ›

Pair kitten heels with a casual dress for a polished weekend look. Choose a shift-style dress for a more bohemian look, or a fitted dress with a blazer for a more structured style. Wear a long sweater or coat with a pair of kitten heel boots for a chic, urban look. Dress up a pair of jeans with kitten heels.

Are chunky heels more comfortable than stilettos? ›

Dr. Sutera says that “chunky, stacked heel, wedge or platform heels are often more comfortable because these offer more stability and transfer weight across a greater surface area as opposed to a stiletto or pump.

What is the best heel height for walking? ›

The best height heel height is between one and two inches. If the shoe is extremely tall, it will cause jamming of the toes and ball of the foot every time you walk. Pay attention to the shape of the toe box, whether it's pointy or curved.

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