Bid farewell to kitten heels—this even shorter shoe is quickly becoming a staple in every fashionista's wardrobe.
Kitten heels have become an essential and highly adaptable style in many fashion enthusiasts' shoe collections in recent years, particularly during the pandemic when comfort was prioritized. Although that period is now behind us, this trend continues to thrive. But what if we told you there's another style that combines similar grace and comfort with a slightly reduced heel height? That's correct — we refer to them as micro heels.
The micro-heeled shoe trend is comparable to a nub, or a small bump. While kitten heels typically measure between two and 2.5 inches, micro heels range from one to two inches in height. This means they sit almost flush with the ground, allowing you to stand taller with your shoulders back. Like their kitten heel counterparts, micro heels are available in various designs, including chic boots, pumps, slingbacks, and sandals, providing a wide array of choices.
Although this trend is still gaining traction, insiders have started to embrace it. For instance, we've spotted Elsa Hosk donning The Row's tan Liisa pumps, and fashion editors experimenting with Khaite's new Sybil Glossed-Leather Ankle Boots. The good news is that affordable variants can also be found from brands like Madewell, Tony Bianco, and Zara. If you're considering adding a pair to your fall shoe collection or beyond, keep reading as we've compiled a list of the 23 best styles available.
**Discover the Micro-Heel Shoe Trend**
**Micro-Heeled Pumps and Slingbacks**
- **Madewell:** The Simone Kitten-Heel Slingback Pumps. With fall approaching, this is the perfect time to invest in a pair of suede shoes like these.
- **Tony Bianco:** Crush Leopard Slingback Heels. The calf hair adds to their stunning appeal.
- **The Row:** Liisa Kitten Heel in Cotton. The Liisa line from The Row perfectly encompasses the micro-heel trend.
- **Jil Sander:** Slingback Heels. A signature style from Jil Sander, previously seen only in black; the burgundy version is even more striking.
I own these and can personally vouch for their comfort and style. The faux leather is incredibly soft and flexible, and the micro heel allows me to wear them all day.
- **Jimmy Choo:** Amelia Suede Kitten-Heel Pumps, Black. A pair worthy of investment.
- **Tony Bianco:** Charlie Heels. Ideal for those wanting to try out a print, particularly snakeskin over leopard.
- **Saint Laurent:** Cherish 30 Satin Crêpe Slingback Pumps. This chic combination of off-white and black is just as adaptable as a classic black style.
- **Free People:** So 90s Kitten Heels. This one is aimed at the edgier dressers.
- **ISABEL MARANT:** Ebisa Leopard-Print Suede Pumps. Leopard-print footwear is incredibly popular right now, and this pair is at the top of my designer wish list.
**Micro-Heeled Boots**
- **ZARA:** Leather Heeled Ankle Boots. The slightly distressed leather gives these boots a vintage flair.
- **Nakedvice:** The Stacey Boot. Animal prints are set to dominate this fall, so I recommend snagging this pair while it's still available and on sale.
- **KHAITE:** Sybil Glossed-Leather Ankle Boots. The wedge-like heel guarantees all-day comfort.
- **Loulou de Saison:** Brown Carla Boots. The wide-calf design offers numerous styling possibilities.
- **The Row:** Liisa Suede Ankle Boots. Perfectly styled with straight-leg jeans, a lace-trim camisole, and a leather jacket.
- **Glamorous:** Pointed Kitten Heel Mid Ankle Boots. Burgundy boots, especially with a croc-like texture, can elevate any outfit.
- **St. Agni:** Petit Pouch Boots. St. Agni has excelled again with these boots, featuring a sleek and simple silhouette alongside a playful pocket.
- **Toteme:** Leather Knee-High Boots. It doesn't get any more luxurious-looking than this pair.
**Micro-Heeled Sandals**
- **Open Edit:** Tori Kitten Heel Sandals. The Who What Wear fashion team discovered these sandals in March as the perfect alternative to Hailey Bieber's Toteme heels, and they have since become a wardrobe staple.
- **Larroudé:** Charlotte Sandals. I envision wearing these now with blue jeans and a white tee and in winter with sheer black tights and an LBD.
- **COS:** Crossover-Strap Kitten-Heel Sandals. This minimalist heel adds just the right touch of pep to your step.
- **The Row:** Vika Ankle Strap Kitten Heel in Leather. Another beautiful red choice that every fashion insider is eager to own.
You'll keep these in your closet for years.
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Bid farewell to kitten heels—this even shorter shoe is quickly becoming a staple in every fashionista's wardrobe.
It has the perfect height to make you feel a bit taller.
