Forget about towering heels; this stylish and comfortable shoe is what every fashion insider is currently sporting.
I will always have a fondness for ballet flats, but while they’ve been my go-to choice for the last few seasons, I’ve recently made a bit of space in my collection for something with some height. Although I’m not yet ready to fully embrace sky-high stilettos again, for now, mid-heel pumps will serve me well. This newfound preference hasn't emerged from nowhere; in fact, the trend has been gaining momentum at New York Fashion Week in recent days, where I have seen it consistently among the city's fashion crowd. Just a few seasons prior, heels of any kind were seldom spotted on the streets, but now the pendulum is swinging back to these once-neglected, ’90s-inspired pumps, and their revival feels perfectly timed.
(Image credit: Getty Images) To support the shoes' imminent comeback, Kendall Jenner and Iris Law temporarily traded their favorite loafers and sneakers this week for this elegant alternative. Both styled their pairs with fitted skirts, using the shoes to elongate their silhouettes while embracing the streamlined looks their outfits already provided.
(Image credit: Getty Images) Outside the front row, Elsa Hosk embraced the shoe trend, pairing a mid-heel pump with a sharp leather pencil skirt and a boxy jacket for a look worthy of fashion week. Unlike stilettos, this style feels much more accessible yet equally sophisticated.
While fashion insiders are primarily pairing them with skirts of all lengths, I can easily envision these shoes looking just as stylish with tailored trousers for a polished appearance—or even with denim for a casual upgrade.
And if the street-style sightings weren’t sufficient evidence, retail is confirming it as well. I’ve noticed sleek mid-heel options at H&M, Zara, and M&S, along with ultra-chic selections from Aeyde and Toteme. Scroll on to see my curated selection of the best mid-heel pumps available now.
Shop Mid-Heel Pumps:
Take advantage of the sale prices.
While I adore these in the rich bordeaux, they are also available in black and brown.
Marks & Spencer
Kitten Heel Court Shoes
Honestly, I would easily believe you if you said these were designer.
Aeyde
Clara Pointed-Toe Heeled Leather Pumps
I always turn to Aeyde when looking for new-season footwear.
The chic basics from Toteme are favored by fashion enthusiasts.
Anonymous Copenhagen
Trini 40 Stiletto Shiny Lamb Chocolate
Style these with a pencil skirt or pair with sleek tailored trousers.
LK Bennett
Avalina Patent-Leather Courts
Every great wardrobe begins with a pair of black pumps.
These also come in half sizes, ensuring you find your ideal fit.
The ruched heel design gives them a distinctly modern vibe.
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Forget about towering heels; this stylish and comfortable shoe is what every fashion insider is currently sporting.
And it will be everywhere shortly.
