I'm a Fashion Editor with a Dislike for Flats—Here Are 6 Heeled Shoe Trends I'm Embracing This Winter (and 6 I'm Not…)

      Okay, maybe I don't completely dislike flat shoes—but I have to admit I would choose heels any day. As a five-foot-tall woman, I appreciate how a good heel—whether it's a micro heel, kitten heel, or stiletto—adds those extra inches, allowing me to stand taller with my shoulders back and my confidence boosted. Over time, I've built quite the collection of heeled shoes. However, like many things in fashion, shoe trends shift. I realized this over the weekend while organizing my closet. Some of my older pairs—with rounded toes or chunky block heels—began to feel a bit outdated and less chic than before. So I created a donation pile, browsed through Pinterest and Instagram for current inspirations, and did some online shopping to see what piqued my interest. During this process, I also noticed several heeled-shoe trends that feel "out" for 2025—and fresh styles that are worth transitioning to. So keep scrolling to discover six heeled shoe trends to embrace this winter—and six to avoid—especially if, like me, you enjoy how a great heel can elevate both your outfit and your mood.

      Avoid: Round-Toe Kitten-Heeled Ankle Boots

      Opt for: Pointed-Toe Kitten-Heeled Ankle Boots

      You can disagree with me all you want, but pointed-toe boots feel more aligned with 2025 than rounded-toe ones. They have a sleeker design, making legs appear longer. However, don’t just opt for any pointed-toe boots; select ones with an elongated toe box, a delicate kitten heel, or a unique curved shape, along with an ankle design that fits snugly like a sock. This style pairs perfectly with jeans or trousers. As for materials, there are plenty of choices, including croc-effect, calf hair, suede, patent leather, and smooth leather.

      Shop the trend:

      MANGO

      Faux-Croc-Leather Pointed-Toe Ankle Boots

      Toteme

      Slim Glossy Leather Ankle Boots

      Avoid: Ankle-Strap Pumps

      Opt for: Ballet Pumps or High-Vamp Pumps

      Ballet pumps and high-vamp pumps are two fashionable styles that, if stripped of their heels, would still resemble chic flats. The ballet pump is just as it sounds—a ballerina silhouette with a block heel. High-vamp pumps are akin, as many feature a block heel, but the upper part of the shoe rises slightly higher on the vamp. These shoes look lovely with dresses and skirts; however, I particularly enjoy that when worn with pants or jeans, they cover any exposed skin at the top of the foot, creating a sleek, polished appearance similar to boots, without covering the ankle.

      Shop the trend:

      Gap

      Vegan Patent Leather Heels

      AEYDE

      Gabby Leather Pumps

      ZARA

      Low Heeled Leather Ballet Flats

      Avoid: Low-Vamp Pumps

      Opt for: V-Cut Pumps

      V-cut pumps are a style of heeled shoe that cut off toward the middle of the foot and extend further up the sides in a V shape. These shoes reveal just a small portion of skin, drawing the eye upwards toward the ankle and shin and creating a longer visual line. They slim the foot and give the appearance of added height. This trend is already part of some fashion icons' wardrobes that I admire. For instance, Elsa Hosk is a fan, as is London-based content creator Marilyn, who stands out for her choice of V-cut heeled shoes, imparting a fresher and more polished feel to her outfits.

      Shop the trend:

      Anthropologie

      Classic Pointed-Toe Pumps

      Emme Parsons

      Veneto Leather Kitten-Heel Pumps

      Avoid: Block-Heeled Knee-High Boots

      Opt for: Thin-Heeled Knee-High Boots

      Knee-high boots are essential for any fashionista's winter wardrobe. For flat styles, riding boots and low-profile sock boots are great choices. When it comes to heeled knee-high boots, the only pair worth investing in this winter for a refined and sophisticated look are knee-high thin-heeled boots. Whether they are kitten, stiletto, or mid-height, thin-heeled boots exude a delicate yet sharp aesthetic, complementing trousers, pencil skirts, and dresses beautifully.

      Shop the trend:

      Nordstrom

      Dauphine Kitten Heel Knee High Boots

      Saint Laurent

      Francoise Smooth Leather Knee-High Boots

      Open Edit

      Elara Pointed Toe Knee High Boots

      STAUD

      Sebastian Leather Knee Boots

      Avoid: Polka-Dot Pumps

      Opt for: Animal-Print Pumps

      To prevent winter outfits from feeling monotonous, use your shoes to introduce a hint of flair. Go for luxurious prints and patterns, like snakeskin, leopard, eel, or ostrich designs. These styles will lend depth and interest, particularly to an all-black ensemble, making you appear like