August 07, 2024
Once divisive, low heels are back in our wardrobes again after seeing a resurgence both on the runway and in street fashion.
The beauty of the cheeky low heel is their ability to fit in among casual and formal vibes. Elevate an outfit for brunch with the girls, a date night in town - even graduation and work events. These versatile shoes give you extra height, while the shorter heel means you don't sacrifice on comfort.
After making an editorial comeback, the low heel is here to stay. Find out how to wear low heels for all occasions with our style guide.
What's on this page
A low heel is pretty much what it says on the tin - a shorter heel than that of its traditional high-heeled sister. Their height usually sits at around one or two inches, making them perfect for the working day, as they don't put too much pressure on the balls of your feet.
They were all the rage in the 1930's, when women began to prioritise both comfort and style. Because of this association with an older generation, they began to slip out of fashion over the following century. However, today they're making a revival for their timeless look, but with a modern twist.
For example, you can find low heels in various styles, including:
They're also super easy to throw on to dress up almost any outfit. From leggings and a baggy blouse, to tapered trousers or a mini skirt, the low heel is often more versatile and comfortable than its taller siblings.
If you're looking for an easy way to style an outfit for a party, you can't go wrong with low heels. They're sophisticated enough to embellish any outfit, all while looking totally effortless. As a throwback item, they look great with '90s-style dresses, smart trousers, or jeans.
Try pairing your low heels with:
Low heels are great for uplifting your favourite dresses. Midi dresses and low heels can make your outfit look more mature and intentional with this classic silhouette. You can also modernise traditional low heels with a flowy, patterned maxi dress for a contrasting look.
These chunky nude low heels from Truffle feature an open toe and adjustable transparent straps for a retro feel. The plastic block heel offers extra support at just over two inches.
Style tip: Pair these see-through outfit saviours with a cute party dress and get ready to dance.
A classic pair of versatile black low heel sandals are great for all occasions - but they're especially handy for parties. The knotted strap and buckle really help to make a statement, while the padded insole means you're ready to tackle any party.
Style tip: Style these with a patterned dress or skinny jeans to uplift your outfit with ease.
These sling back low heels are the ultimate party shoes. This comfortable pair by Truffle offers an elasticated slingback strap to hold your feet firmly, with a padded insole to cushion the soles.
Style tip: Go bold and choose this shoe in red or green too. Show them off with a little cocktail dress, or style a monochrome outfit where these shoes can be the highlight.
Low heels are a great addition to your work wardrobe, whether you fancy dressing up your more casual items for an informal dress code, or for standard business attire. The perfect balance between formal and laid-back, low heels are a fun and classy way to add variety to your regular work rotation. Plus, they're often much easier to walk in than ordinary heels!
Try wearing low heels with:
These black heeled boots from Lotus are perfect for work. The padded insole supports your feet, with a zip fastening for easy wearing. The sleek black finish also creates an air of effortless professional glam.
Style tip: Dress up a business casual outfit with a pair of jeans and a blazer, or pair with smart trousers or a dress for a more formal look.
If your work dress code is more formal, these black leather low heels are an excellent option for everyday wear. Offering a wide fit slip-on style, you will be comfortable all day.
Style tip: Match these with a pair of patterned or neutral tapered trousers for added height – or wear them with a classic pencil skirt.
Low heel pumps are great for when you don't want too much height but also don't want to wear totally flat shoes at work. These black leather loafers from Caprice are sumptuously comfortable and lightweight.
Style tip: For a casual work vibe, wear these with skinny or cropped ankle jeans, a nice blouse or a cute graphic tee.
Going for brunch or enjoying a cheeky shopping day out in the city? A pair of low heels has your back. Not only do they make fantastic summer staples, but they're also great for transitional weather once we step into autumn.
Available in a range of colours and styles, low heels are ideal for creating a capsule wardrobe. Their small heel makes it easy on the feet if you're walking for longer periods of time, which is always a bonus on day trips.
>You can wear them with:
A modern interpretation of the low heel, these bold green mules from Truffle have a small platform that offers extra height without the extra fuss. If green isn't your style, they're also available in black.
Style tip: Wear your favourite patterned trousers, flares, or wide leg jeans to highlight these striking mules.
A throwback to the '90s, these open toe nude heeled mule sandals are the perfect low shoe for going out in. Easy to slide on and go, they have a chunky neutral heel and translucent upper, making them the ultimate wardrobe staple.
Style tip: Level up your outfit and pop out to lunch in a floral dress, mini skirt, or cuffed jeans with these trendy mules.
A cross between chunky low heels and boots, these black buckled heels from Sedai are super cute for everyday wear. Adjustable buckles give you a custom fit while the thick heel and outsole is sturdy and comfortable.
Style tip: Match these with tapered trousers and a crop top, emphasising these bottom-heavy shoes.
Throwing on a pair of low heels with your faithful jeans is an easy way to dress them up when you're running low on time to style an outfit. Style your low heels with ripped, boyfriend, or wide leg jeans for a casual look, or opt for cropped straight leg or skinny jeans for a seamless shape. Pair with a patterned blouse, blazer, or boxy tee to complete the outfit.
Low heels have click-clacked their way back into our hearts, and for good reason. Easy to walk in and style, these low-key staples are very much in vogue again – and we're glad to see it.
Check out the shoezone blog for more style tips and footwear suggestions for every occasion.