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Warm weather has officially arrived, bringing with it all of the excitement and festivities that come with the sunny season. But before you dive headfirst into the summer rush, it’s time to celebrate. Regardless of your background, the extended daylight hours of summer bring forth a plethora of soirées, from weddings and vacations to graduations. The bottom line: Get ready for occasions that might require a pair of heels. I understand that “comfortable high heels” may seem like an oxymoron, but optimism is my forte. With this in mind, I sought the expertise of celebrity podiatrist Dr. Suzanne Levine, DPM, to discern what transforms a stiletto into a wearable shoe. Exploring criteria such as heel heights and materials, as well as addressing bunions and other foot issues worsened by wearing heels, I was happy to get Dr. Levine’s insight and find that, as a heel enthusiast herself, she doesn’t shy away from them.
Best Espadrilles
Cole Haan Cloudfeel Hampton Wedge Sandals
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Best Doctor Designed
Marion Parke Classic Slingback 70
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Best Heel Design
Sam Edelman Kori Flora Platform Heel
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The key is moderation, taking sitting breaks, and selecting the right heel, depending on your activity. For standing up to eight hours, your ideal heel height should stay at two inches, so go for a cute kitten heel. Increase the height, and you limit the time you can or should spend on your feet. The higher the heel, the more helpful a comfortable platform sandal can be. Of course, we always love opting for a comfortable ballet flat, too. “It’s like having your cake but not making it a daily activity,” says Levine. “It doesn’t have to be done every day or in excess, but there is nothing wrong with wearing a fabulous pair of heels.” Amen to that.
Naturally, everyone’s feet are different. What causes blisters for one person may not affect you in the same way. Additionally, purchasing over-the-counter metatarsal pads for the balls of your feet can provide extra cushioning and support. “My patients don’t give [heels] up, but you have to do something to counteract them,” she adds. And because we care about doing our due diligence, we’d like to take a moment to emphasize the importance of stretching and exercising your feet, keeping them well-moisturized, and opting for podiatrist-approved shoes when you’re not dressing up. Below, we’ve curated tips to help you discover heels that will endure throughout the night (or at least until that universally accepted moment when every woman kicks off her heels on the dance floor). Keep reading for expert advice, as well as ELLE editors’ top picks for heels that effortlessly blend style with comfort.
Best Espadrilles
Cole Haan Cloudfeel Hampton Wedge Sandals
Pros
- Classic woven jute wedge
- Ankle ribbon tie
- Front platform
Cons
- Summer-exclusive style
For a quintessential summer heel, look no further than the espadrille. This beach-inspired style offers added stability with its wedge and ankle tie, while remaining versatile enough to transition seamlessly from daytime outings to evening affairs, effortlessly adapting to both casual and formal settings.
Heel Height: 4 inches
Colors: Gold, Ivory, Black, Orange
Sizes: US 5-11
Customer review: “Cute and comfortable - Perfect for summer shorts/dresses/skirts or crop jeans”
Pros
- Suitable for high arches
- Slingback with adjustable buckle
Cons
Attending an event that calls for more elegance than your favorite mesh flats? Fear not, I’ve got you covered! Enter these mesh slingbacks from Marion Parke, boasting an insole meticulously crafted to conform to the natural contours of your foot, enhanced with scientifically supported cushioning for unparalleled comfort.
Heel Height: 2.8 inches
Colors: Black Glitter, Framboise, Beige, Acid
Sizes: EU 35.5-40
Pros
- Wedge heel
- Easy slip-on style
- Open square toe
Cons
- Lack of platform makes for a higher pitch
It goes without saying a wedge is a timeless, smart choice when wearing heels. This effortless slip-on style from Dolce Vita features a supple leather upper with subtle elastic detailing and a roomy square toe box that allows ample space for your toes to move freely and comfortably.
Heel Height: 3.4 inches
Colors: Acorn, black, ivory
Sizes: US 6-10
Customer review: “Leather is great quality, and very comfortable”
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Best Heel Design
Sam Edelman Kori Flora Platform Heel
Pros
- Beaded flower detail
- Thick platform
- Block heel
Cons
- Higher heel
- Thin ankle strap is less supportive
If height’s what you’re going for, this Sam Edelman pair is a no-brainer. The substantial platform and block heel provide sstability while preventing your foot from pitching too dramatically. The charming flower detail adds a touch of delicacy, making them an ideal summer accessory, particularly for wedding guests.
Heel Height: 5.5 inches
Colors: Pistachio, Platinum, Blush
Sizes: US 5-11
Customer review: “The Kori Platform heels ate very pretty and sexy! They are really tall, but surprisingly comfortable for a 5ft tall girl. My husband thought they were really cute. I paired them with a pair of wide leg jeans.”
Pros
- True stiletto style
- 6mm of extra footbed padding
- Expanded toe box
- Style available in three different heel heights
Cons
Never thought a pointy-toe pump could offer comfort? Me neither, until now. With a spacious toe box, anatomically designed arch support, and added footbed cushioning, this pair from Sarah Flint is backed by both technology and rave reviews.
Heel Height: 3.9 inches
Colors: 8 options
Sizes: US 4-13
Customer review: “The perfect pump is pure perfection. This pump is exquisite. I have never had a shoe this well made before. The wider toe box helps so much, giving my little toes extra space. The arch support is incredible, like no other dress shoe I’ve ever owned. The non-slip bottom gives me confidence in this high of a heel. Every individual deserves a shoe this well crafted & special. It is evident Sarah put much thought & careful consideration in the design of these shoes. I will continue to share the Sarah Flint brand with everyone I know!”
Pros
- Platform allows for lower pitch
- Insole padded with memory foam
Cons
What is a high heel if not a statement shoe? This striking pair is guaranteed to turn heads no matter the outfit. The vibrant red croc-embossed leather, set in a chunky silhouette, is the perfect complement to the memory foam insole and secure ankle strap—ensuring both comfort and style in this standout sandal.
Heel Height: 3.5 inches
Colors: 8 options
Sizes: EU 36-41
Customer review: “Just stopping by to let you know that wore my Taxi for the first time last Saturday and danced all night, no blisters or pain”
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Pros
- Thick heel
- Sustainable
- Timeless
- Italian leather
Cons
Everlane’s heels are chic, sustainably made with quality materials, and the perfect height for everyday wear. Just as its name suggests, this specific silhouette is meant to be worn 24/7, thanks to its supple Italian leather upper, manageable two-inch block heel, and elasticized heel design that helps prevent blisters. Plus, thousands of reviewers rave about these.
Heel Height: 2 inches
Colors: Black, Bone Stacked, or Light Taupe
Sizes: 5-11 (including half sizes)
Customer review: “A pillow of comfortable delight without any compromise on style.”
Pros
- N5 comfort footbed
- Adjustable buckle ankle strap
Cons
- Reviews mention material looks cheap
The fusion of a sturdy block heel with a delicate ankle strap creates the perfect recipe for a versatile and contemporary pair of heels, guaranteeing endurance throughout the night on the dance floor. Naturalizer specializes in crafting shoes for comfort and provides inclusive sizing, which means everyone finds their perfect fit.
Heel Height: 3.75 inches
Colors: 6 options
Sizes: US 4.5-12
Customer review: “They fit perfectly and feel so comfortable - my feet do not get sore!”
Pros
- Many straps across the foot for security and comfort
- Italian leather
- Straps have small elastic for adjustability
Cons
- No ankle support
When it comes to the straps on this pair, we believe more is definitely more. An effortless slip-on style designed to embrace your foot with luxurious Italian leather straps, complete with subtle elastic detailing for that extra touch of adjustability.
Heel Height: 3.1 inches
Colors: Black, Tan, White
Sizes: EU 35-42
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Pros
- Trendy Western style
- Cushioned footbed
- Full coverage
Cons
- Reviews say style runs small
Step into these mid-calf cowboy boots from Free People to infuse a hint of Western charm into your look. With a cushioned footbed, sturdy block heel, and full foot coverage, these boots offer an elevated style suitable for festivals and nights out alike.
Heel Height: 3.5 inches
Colors: Bone, flame taupe, black
Sizes: US 6-11
Customer review: “I wore them to a country concert and it was pouring rain and the boots are still in great shape. The rain didn’t tune or fade the red at all. They were comfortable for walking all day and I would highly recommend.”
Pros
- Inclusive sizing including three width options
- Ankle wrap detail
- 5 mm of foam padding on the insole
Cons
For a slightly lower lift, this 2.5-inch tall Margaux sandal offers comfortable versatility in a neutral hue, complementing both dresses and jeans effortlessly. The gladiator-style leather ankle wrap, with beautiful contrast stitching, delivers additional extra ankle support but also serves as an extra visual accent.
Heel Height: 2.5 inches
Colors: 6 options
Sizes: US 3-13
Customer review: “As always Margaux hits the high notes with this one! The stacked heel with an excellent fit (I’m a size 11and the 42.5 Medium fits like a glove on me) and style for everyday wear and all day comfort. Couldn’t ask for a more perfect heeled sandal!”
Best Platform Sandals
Marc Fisher Chesse Heeled Sandal
Pros
- Adjustable ankle strap
- Front platform
- Block heel
Cons
- Summer-exclusive style
These Marc Fisher platform sandals feature a lofty platform and block heel, accented with beachy braided upper straps and an adjustable ankle strap for maximum stability. Reviews also highlight their suitability for those with wider feet, making them an excellent choice for all-day comfort and style.
Heel Height: 3.94 inches
Colors: Natural, sky blue, black
Sizes: US 5-11
Customer review: “These shoes are adorable and comfortable! I have wide feet so it’s difficult to find cute shoes that I can wear for a long amount of time but these are amazing!”
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Pros
- Full foot support
- Mary Jane style
- Adjustable buckle straps
Cons
- Not as high of a heel
This heel allows you to maintain the elegance of the ballet flat look while adding a touch of extra height. Elevate your Mary Jane collection with this Vinceza pair, which showcases a low-block heel and three adjustable buckle straps for a chic and customizable fit.
Heel Height: 1.5 inches
Colors: Pink, Silver, Light Blue, Cream, Black
Sizes: US 5-10
Customer Review: “Hallelujah! The skies have opened up! I found shoes that don’t kill my feet and on top of that, they are cute! I can wear them with socks or not. I can fit my orthotics in them. They are really cool with jeans and a white T shirt. I have received many compliments.”
Pros
- Thick platform creates a low arch
- Block heel
- Adjustable ankle strap
Cons
- Reviews say ankle strap is too small
Reviewers can’t get enough of these dramatic platform heels, gushing over both their style and comfortability. Coupled with a lustrous black satin upper, they’re a top choice for nightlife outings when flat shoes simply won’t suffice.
Heel height: 5 inches
Colors: Black
Sizes: US 5-11
Customer review: “Love these. So comfortable!!! Doesn’t even feel like you’re walking in a heel.”
Pros
- Genuine leather
- Cushioned sole
- Square toe box
Cons
ELLE.com digital director Claire Stern calls these strappy platforms a personal favorite, and with good reason. Breathable materials like natural leather that will give are important to achieving comfort. Cushioning on the footbed, especially on the ball of the forefoot, will allow you to stay on your feet longer. These are made of real leather, have an insole lined with memory foam, and have a roomy square-toe design that lets toes have room to breathe.
Heel height: 2.3 inches
Colors: Tan
Sizes: 5.5-10
Customer review: “Great shoe—really comfortable and cute with dresses.”
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