Looking for that dreamy pair of heels, the one that keeps appearing every night in your dreams but can’t find in real life because your feet are too small? Then you are in the right place because we’ll share with you everything we know about the different types of heels for petite women and where to buy them.
Being petite can get a little difficult to shop for basically anything, so we’re here to give you some pointers. Just because you have small feet doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a good pair of heels. Though smaller sizes may seem neglected at times, heels are not that complicated, or at least it shouldn’t have to be.
Heels are a staple piece in women’s wardrobes unless you are not into them for some reason, which is highly unlikely. They not only suitable for numerous social occasions but offer special benefits for petite women. Heels have the ability to make you a few inches taller as well as stylize your legs.
Heels Origin
Did you know that heels were not originally meant to be worn by women as they are now, but rather as a man’s shoe!
They were most popular with kings and other noble and wealthy men long before making it on women’s feet.
In previous centuries, the heel enabled men to stand up in their stirrups and better utilize their weapons during war. A common theory is that high heels came about as a way of straddling stirrups for equestrians. Cowboy boots today still have low heels allowing for quality stability. Heels used for this purpose date back to the Persian Empire in the 10th century.
Women began wearing heels until the mid-1500s. Previous to this, women had only worn platform shoes.
And though they may often be regarded as uncomfortable, they are undeniably present in modern-day society.
Types of heels
Heels come in all shapes and sizes; check out some of the most common heel types, most flattering for petite sizes.
Slingbacks
The high heel pumps are a wardrobe essential without a doubt. The best pumps for petite girls should have no ankle strap.
We’re going for here to form an unbroken line from your legs to your feet so that you look taller and your proportion looks better.
Ankle strap heels may be a versatile shoe; however, they can make the legs appear shorter and are best suited for taller wearers, while slingback heels keep the bridge of your foot bare for an elongated, straightforward look.
We like this J’Adior in technical fabric slingback heels from 24s.com
Pointed toe
Pointed-toe heels are popular with petite women, and for a good reason, it is the most flattering style for petite women.
It may seem to be just a one-inch difference at the toes, but they make a huge difference and make your legs look so much longer and will help you rock every dress, denim jean, or maxi with ease.
We like this COLETER Women’s Sexy Pointed Toe High Heels from Amazon because it is a classic pointed toe that will surely elongate your leg lines visually.
Stiletto
Stiletto heels are the classic high heel that can provide you a desired illusion of height and lengthen your legs, making them a highly coveted type.
The stiletto heel is sky-high in height; they can range from one to 10 inches and typically feature a pointy, thin heel.
This signature heel can be the perfect complement to cocktail attire, leggings, or spice up a double-denim look. We like this one from Amazon.
Heels with low vamp
Though you may not know exactly what these are, you’ve probably seen them somewhere or on someone.
These are the shoes that show a little bit of toe cleavage. The lower the vamp, the less covered your feet are, thus the longer your legs look.
We like this Pointed Toe Low-Cut Vamp from Amazon; the heel measures approximately 4.5 inches” and is the perfect go-to style for all occasions.
Peep toe
A peep-toe heel has an opening in the front of the shoe that offers exposure to your toes, good to give your feet some breathing space – while keeping an elegant appearance.
Peep toes are incredibly versatile and work well with everything from skinny jeans to evening gowns. Petites should be fine wearing a peep toe heel as long as these are to their preferred height.
We like this Peep Toe Slip On Pumps from SO SIMPOK. The heel height measurement is approx: 11.5 cm. Find them on Amazon.
Block heel
Block heels are chunky heels with a square or cylindrical appearance and are super comfy while making you look super trendy and stylish.
The heel shape distributes weight evenly, making them one of the more comfortable types of heels you can wear. Block goes fantastic with skinny jeans, casual skirts, and dresses.
We like these Large Buckle Block Heel Open Toe Sandals from Amazon. The platform measures approximately 1 inch, and they have a rubber sole.
Mules
Mules are a slip-on shoe available in various textures and a range of heights. This heel type is backless, and it looks best with summer dresses and midi skirts, also evening looks.
There’s are myriad silhouettes to choose from, including closed-toe designs, strappy silhouettes, and exaggerated shapes.
We love these VETASTE Woven Leather Mule Sandals from Amazon. The heel height measures approximately 3.5 inches, and it gives height to your figure and lengthens your leg curve to make you look slim and elegant.
Over the knee boots
Knee-high boots are a must for Petites since this has the power to extend your legs -which is important when you have small feet because this creates length in your styling.
This type of boots can really make your proportions look better when paired with the same color as your jeans. If you wear them with a short skirt or dress, throwing a pair of stockings will give you the length illusion you are looking for.
Check out this Vince Camuto Women’s Fendels Fashion Boot from Amazon. The heel measures approximately 3.5.
Other known types of heels like wedges and platforms or any shoe with chunky heels are not flattering for petite women with small feet. It is all about your personal preferences. However, the reason is that heavier heels add too much weight to your bottom half and make you look shorter.