Heeled shoes span silhouettes and can include everything from sandals to pumps, just as they range in heel heights, heel shapes and more. With so many interpretations to choose from, we created the ultimate heel guide to make it easier to find your perfect pair of heels for any outfit and occasion.
Ahead, discover everything you need to know about all the different types of high heels, from timeless wardrobe staples to the looks everyone’s loving now.
HEEL STYLES
When it comes to finding the perfect heels, we recommend familiarizing yourself with the many different types of heel styles before deciding on the look you want. Below, we delve into the different high-heel styles, from pumps to sandals to boots.
HEELED PUMPS
What are pumps? Simply put, pumps are one of the more common types of high heels around. The most classic iteration of pump heels features a closed toe, a topline that exposes the top of the foot and a heel. A staple in every polished wardrobe, pumps have since been reimagined in countless ways, from platform pumps to Mary Jane pumps, and with different toe shapes, heel shapes and heel heights.
HEELED SANDALS
Heeled sandals come in a wide variety of looks. Examples include iconic strappy stiletto sandals, ankle-wrap sandals and gladiator sandals, plus they are also available in a range of heel heights.
HEELED BOOTS & BOOTIES
Heeled boots and heeled booties come in a multitude of styles. They range from function-focused designs constructed for utility, such as weather boots, to boldly dramatic thigh-high boots, stiletto-heeled ankle booties and more.
HEEL SHAPES
Another factor to consider when shopping for your next pair of heels is its shape. Heels come in many different shapes, and depending on your choice, they can easily alter the look — and wearability — of any silhouette.
STILETTOS
Stiletto heels are defined by their streamlined and pointed shape — a detail that gives them the elegant leg-lengthening effect they are known for. The most common types of stilettos include pointed-toe stiletto pumps and sleek, strappy stiletto sandals. Due to their construction, which places the weight on just the ball of the foot and the thin heel, stiletto shoes are usually worn as evening and special occasion shoes.
BLOCK HEELS
Block heels refer to more substantial, blockier shapes. Block-heeled shoes distribute weight more evenly and, as such, they provide more support than their stiletto-heeled counterparts. Tall enough to elevate your look yet comfortable enough for everyday, they are universally loved for their wearability and versatility. The types of shoes block heels can appear on include boots, booties, pumps, loafers and sandals.
WEDGE HEELS
Wedge heels are defined by a wedged component that serves as both the sole and heel of the shoe. This detail ensures that weight is distributed evenly along the entire base of the foot for wearability. With this, wedges offer an effortless boost of style, making them equally ideal for day and night. This heel shape may be paired with everything from espadrilles to sandals to pumps to sneakers.
PLATFORM HEELS
What sets platform heels apart is the addition of a plateau at the base of the toe. This detail creates less of an incline when paired with towering high heels and, in turn, places less pressure on the ball of the foot. Platforms are a must-have look this season, and interpretations of the trend include platform stiletto heels, platform sandals, platform pumps, platform boots and more. 
SCULPTURAL HEELS
Sculptural heels are designed with a distinctively architectural sensibility. That is, they may not be uniform in shape from start to finish. This type of heel can be seen on everything from sandals — such as our PLAYA KNOT sandals — to pumps and boots, as seen on our XCURVE styles.
KITTEN HEELS
Kitten-heel shoes generally range between 1.5 and 2 inches in height, making them among the shortest heel shapes. This classic heel shape, often seen on kitten-heel sandals or kitten-heel pumps, is ideal for those looking for a subtle boost without sacrificing comfort.