It's True—This Is the Only New Shoe Trend I'd Retire My Flats For

As a self-confessed shoe fanatic, my favourite topic of discussion is the latest trends in footwear. To quote the great Carrie Bradshaw, a good pair of shoes not only makes or breaks an outfit but also has the ability to "rescue your ankles from a life of boredom," and given the amount of time we spend in shoes working, socialising and travelling, it's only right that they should be special to make the journey a little more fun. 

The latest style I have fallen for? Kitten heels. While I consider them an obviously wise investment—they are chic, playful, and, most importantly, easy to wear—I am told that they are a controversial choice. Once synonymous with "conservative" dressing, kitten heels have earned a bad reputation as being functional over fashionable, and while they may not be the sexiest shoe on the market, according to some haters, therein lies their appeal. 

After making an unexpected comeback a couple of years ago thanks to Manolo Blahnik’s Maysale pumps, all was quiet on the kitten-heel front until a Miuccia Prada renaissance changed the look of the micro heel, shaking off its stuffy connotations and finally giving us a fashion-forward shoe we could actually walk in. (I'm looking at you, Versace platforms.)

Kitten-heel slingbacks at Miu Miu S/S 22.

While everyone was suitably distracted by the micro miniskirt, south of the model's ankle was a pointy loafer-meets-heel, preppily styled with ribbed socks and reminiscent of the previous year's razor-sharp Prada heels, a sporty pop of colour in an otherwise pared-back show. 

Kitten heels at Prada S/S 21.

But as with any style, the only way to know if it will make the mainstream is when it starts to pop up on the street style set—fashion's most influential editors and content creators, who have the ability to turn a runway moment into a living, breathing trend. And as the Prada shoes took over our feeds on the likes of Pernille Teisbaek, Anna Vitiello and Emili Sindlev, along too came kitten-heeled mules, sandals, boots… You name it; it's been micro-heeled. 

KITTEN HEELS ON SOME OF OUR FAVOURITE INFLUENCERS

Style Notes: Staying true to Prada's minimalist styling, Pernille opted for all black with a pop of colour, this time in bag form. 

Style Notes: If you weren't sold on socks and sandals, try socks and slingbacks to play up the vintage vibe. 

Style Notes: The new kitten heels come in open-toe versions, too, and we love the classic simplicity of Lorna's white mules. 

Style Notes: Sylvie shows not only how to wear kitten heels with jeans but also how to make them work for autumn and winter. 

To make the most of summer, I'm investing in low-heeled sandals and mules, but as soon as the weather gets colder, you can bet on seeing me in kitten-heel slingbacks or knee-high boots. Until then, keep scrolling for some of the best kitten heels to invest in now. Trust me—your feet will thank you. 

SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST KITTEN HEELS TO BUY NOW

Up Next, 10 Major Shoe Trends That Will Be Everywhere This Autumn