Types of Heels for Women: A Complete Style Guide

2025-05-27 18:40:43

Let’s be honest, no outfit feels truly finished without the right pair of heels. Whether you’re dressing up for brunch, a festive party, or the office, heels instantly add height, poise, and confidence.

But with so many different types of heels for women, choosing the right one can be tricky. This guide breaks down the most popular types of women’s heels, explains when to wear them, and shares styling tips so you can find your perfect match.

What Are Heels?

Heels are a type of women's footwear designed with an elevated heel, making the back of the foot higher than the front. They come in many forms, varying in shape, height, and comfort.

While the type of heel often defines the shoe’s look and purpose, each offers a different vibe, some bold and dramatic, others elegant or casual. Let’s explore the different types of high heels you can wear for any occasion.

Different types of Heels for Women

Stiletto Heels 

The queen bee of all heels. Stilettos are sleek, sharp, and instantly elevate your entire look—literally and stylistically. Named after a specialized dagger with a long slender blade and needle-like point, these heels have a sharp quality and can elevate any look to the next level. Stiletto heels may vary in length from 2.5 centimetres (1 inch) to 25 cm (10 inches) or more if a platform sole is used and are sometimes defined as having a diameter at the ground of less than 1 cm (slightly less than half an inch). 

Why we love them: 

• They elongate the legs and define your silhouette 

• They scream power, confidence, and hot girl energy 

• Ideal for night-outs, parties, and glam events 

Style them with: Bodycon dresses, slit skirts, tailored trousers, or a blazer dress if you’re going full boss mode. 

✨ Shop stilettos at Mochi for bold, statement-making pairs that turn heads. 

Block Heels 

Block heels are the chill girls of the heel world. They give you all the height without the wobble—making them your BFF for all-day events or city strolls. Their stable base makes them easier to wear for longer durations and more forgiving on your feet. Here’s what makes them great. 

Why they’re a win: 

• Super comfortable and stable thanks to the wider heel base 

• Versatile enough for casual to formal wear which makes them one of the most common choices for most of us 

• Look cute with everything from jeans to dresses, as long as you pick the right ones 

Style them with: Flared pants, wrap dresses, ethnic wear, or even denim co-ords for that comfy-chic vibe. 

Go bold with colours or keep it classic in nudes—there’s no wrong way to block heel. 

Kitten Heels 

Meet the heel that’s cute, classy, and incredibly comfy. Kitten heels are back (thankfully!) and hotter than ever. A kitten heel is a type of stiletto heel that is generally less than 5 cm (2 inches) in height, featuring a slight curve that sets the heel in from the back edge of the shoe. Here’s what makes them special. 

What makes them stand out: 

• Tiny heel, huge impact in terms of style 

• Vintage, Parisian-inspired vibe which gained prominence in the 1960s, largely due to the influence of fashion icons like Audrey Hepburn, who helped popularize kitten heels as a fashionable yet functional choice 

• Perfect for when you want a polished look minus the pain 

Style them with: Pencil skirts, midi dresses, cropped denims, or high-waist trousers. 

Looking for an entry-level heel? Start with a sleek pair of kitten heels from Mochi—you’ll never look back. 

Wedge Heels 

Wedges are your go-to for summer vibes and stability. They give you that high heel feel but with a solid base, making them perfect for all-day wear. With a design that dates to ancient Greece, wedge heels have stuck around for good reason. 

Here’s why they slay: 

• Even weight distribution = less foot pain which makes them a popular choice among many 

• Ideal for weddings, brunches, or casual dates, with scope for details on the sides of the wedge 

• Super easy to walk in, even on grass or cobblestones, giving you a stable platform to rely on 

Style them with: Flowy maxi dresses, linen trousers, or ethnic fits. They’re also beach-vacation approved. 

Bonus: Great for outdoor events where stilettos would sink into the ground! 

Platform Heels 

Platform heels for women are the answer when you want major height without the major foot drama. To put it simply, in a platform type footwear, the entire sole is thick and then there’s an added heel height. This gives it a sleek high heel look without the discomfort of typical heels. 

What makes them a fave: 

• Cushioning under the forefoot balances the heel height 

• Adds a bold, retro touch to your outfit 

• Great for party nights or standing events 

Style them with: Wide-leg pants, jumpsuits, or anything Y2K-inspired. You’ll feel tall, comfy, and stylish all night long. 

Explore bold prints, metallics, or even pastel hues to add a little extra drama. 

Peep-Toe Heels 

The perfect mix of playful and classy, peep-toe heels show just a peek of your toes—ideal when your pedicure’s on point. 

Why they’re cute: 

• Slightly flirty but still sophisticated 

• Work with both Western and ethnic wear 

• Available in various heel types (block, stiletto, wedge) 

Style them with: A-line skirts, palazzos, or sarees for a modern desi twist. 

Pro tip: Match your toenail colour to your bag for that ‘I plan every detail’ energy. 

How to Choose the Right Heels for Women 

Not all heels are made for every event—or every foot. Here’s how to pick the pair that suits both your style and your lifestyle: 

Need	Go For
Office Wear	Kitten heels or block heels
All-Day Comfort	Wedges or platforms
Party-Ready Vibes	Stilettos or peep-toes
Wedding Functions	Block heels or wedges
Everyday Casual	Kitten heels or loafers

Also consider: 

• Toe shape (pointed for formal, round for casual) 

• Heel material (suede = soft & matte, patent = glossy glam) 

• Straps for extra support, especially if you’re on the move 

Tips to Care for and Maintain Your Heels 

Love your heels? Show them. 

Quick care checklist: 

• Wipe them down after every use—especially patent and leather 

• Store with shape—use shoe shapers or tissue paper 

• Avoid wet surfaces, especially with suede or fabric heels 

• Rotate your pairs—don’t wear the same ones every day 

Need a weekend project? Give your shoes a spa day—clean, condition, and air them out! 

Conclusion 

From stilettos that scream power to wedges that whisper comfort, each heel type has its own charm. Understanding the different styles of heels helps you build a wardrobe that matches your personality and lifestyle.

At Mochi Shoes, you’ll find every kind, from chic stilettos to everyday block heels, all designed to help you step confidently and stylishly.

Step up your style game, shop the latest types of heels for women at Mochi Shoes today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Types of Heels

1. How many types of heels are there for women?

There are over 15 different types of heels for women, but the most common include stilettos, block heels, wedges, kitten heels, platforms, and peep-toes.

2. Which type of heel is most comfortable for beginners?

Block or kitten heels are ideal for beginners—they offer stability and comfort without straining your feet.

3. What’s the difference between stilettos and high heels?

All stilettos are high heels, but not all high heels are stilettos. Stilettos have thin, pointed heels, while high heels can also include block, platform, or wedge designs.

4. Which heels are best for office wear?

Kitten and block heels are perfect—they look polished and professional while keeping you comfortable all day.

5. Are wedges suitable for formal events?

Yes! Sleek wedges in neutral or metallic tones can work beautifully for weddings and outdoor formal events.

6. What are the best heels for short women?

Platform and stiletto heels help add height while keeping proportions balanced.

7. How can I make heels more comfortable to wear?

Use cushioned insoles, pick the right size, and avoid wearing them for extended hours without breaks.