Many would even call shoes with a Viennese heel a shoe without a heel, it is so low. Its height does not exceed 2 centimeters, and therefore is most often found in classic ballet shoes. By the way, if you are still sure that the most useful heel from an orthopedic point of view should be 5 cm, we hasten to announce the latest news: according to American research, the ideal height is 2.5 cm, so the Viennese heel is very close to the ideal.
Well, if you like ballet shoes with absolutely flat soles, think about it, because the absence of a heel is no less harmful than its excessive height.
Photo: Sam Edelman, Bettye Muller
This charming-looking heel, which rarely exceeds 5 cm in height, is so named because it resembles the stem of a glass with a wide top and a graceful taper towards the bottom. Thanks to Audrey Hepburn, this version of the heel was incredibly popular in the middle of the last century, and in the English version it is called kitten heels, which can roughly be translated as “cat’s paw.”
Despite the fact that the glass heel looks very elegant, many quite rightly blame it for its inconvenience and poor stability.
Photo: New Look
Like a glass, this heel tapers towards the bottom, but even visually it is noticeable that this option offers its owner solid stability. Keep in mind that many fashionistas note that it is better to choose wedge-shaped heels if they are higher than 6-7 cm, because otherwise they look too massive.
Photo: Aquazzura
One of the most popular options for those who love high heels, but do not like stilettos, again due to stability. And such a heel won’t occupy her! Even at a height of 13-15 centimeters, you will feel quite comfortable, because a column is just that, a column, and its purpose is to stand firmly on the ground.
Photo: Shopstyle, Net-a-porte
The most desirable, the most spectacular and often the most uncomfortable for thousands of women, stiletto heels enjoy unquestioned authority among all types of heels! It is probably difficult to find at least one girl who does not have (even if she wore them only once on a big occasion!) elegant high-heeled shoes.
This heel option has an almost magical ability to lengthen and slim your legs, so these shoes will make you feel like a real model.
Alas, the objective and cruel truth is that stilettos top the list of the most harmful shoes, because because of them, the center of gravity of your body shifts forward, and the hips and spine cease to be a straight line, as nature intended. In addition, maintaining balance requires constant tension in the muscles of the legs and back, which ultimately leads to muscle spasms.
Beauty, as we know, requires sacrifice, but perhaps you should find shoes that require less sacrifice?
Photo: Asos, Missguided
This heel got its name due to its widening towards the bottom. Its width can vary, for example, in ballroom dancing The flared heel is quite subtle and the flare provides more stability.
This option is perfect for those who want to wear high heels, but are not entirely confident in their ability to hold them on.
Photo: J. Crew, Lulus
It belongs to a variety of heels, although in fact it is a special type of outsole that combines the functions of a heel and a sole. Despite its originality, the wedge heel is found in shoes of various styles, including classic pumps, espadrilles, and even sneakers.
The wedge heel boasts excellent stability; in fact, the name itself came to us from the military field, this is what the armored high-speed vehicle is called.
Not everyone knows that heels were originally invented for men. They helped the stronger sex keep their leg in the stirrup when riding a horse. Nowadays women wear them to appear slimmer and taller. This article will talk about the types of heels. Information on how to choose the right height so that your leg does not suffer will also be useful. To do this, you need to know the types of heels and their names.
This is the smallest of all known types of heels. Its size does not exceed two centimeters. Ballet shoes are often made with Viennese heels. It also looks good on boots and boots.
The heel was invented in Vienna in the mid-19th century. Then in the spring (during Maslenitsa) they gave a huge number of balls. The ladies wanted to attend everyone, but their feet hurt terribly from daily dancing in heels, which was a mandatory attribute in a lady's clothing. Such a small, purely symbolic heel was invented for Viennese balls.
The brick size is 2-4 cm. It has a square shape, which makes it very stable. This heel is more often found on shoes of the stronger sex, but manufacturers sometimes use it in shoe models for ladies. This is a practical option for those who spend all day on their feet.
The heel resembles an inverted triangular prism. This heel shape visually slims and makes your legs look longer. Shoes with wedge heels look great with dresses, skirts, and trousers.
A low heel with a sloping back. It is most often seen on cowboy boots, which are very popular today. These shoes are worn with light chiffon dresses, jeans, knitted cardigans and shorts.
The shape of the heel is indicated by its name; it can be of any height. A thin cone-shaped heel is an excellent companion for flowy, feminine dresses.
The height of this heel most often does not exceed 7 cm. In shape, it has a wide base and a narrow end (like the stem of a glass). Although the heel is small, it is not among the comfortable ones. It is preferred by girls taller than average. It is small, but thin and resembles a hairpin.
Among different types heels women's shoes this one is considered one of the most convenient. Its height varies from 5 cm to 20 cm. Shoes with such a heel are ideal for everyday wear.
It is a solid sole with an instep. Its height can vary from 5 to 20 cm. There are even higher models, but they are difficult to walk on. Wedges are comfortable to walk in, which is why they are very popular, especially in summer. These shoes look great with dresses different lengths, shorts, overalls, skinny trousers and jeans.
The average height of this heel is 8 cm. Its maximum height can reach up to 20 cm. Models of stiletto heels are usually equipped with a platform at the base of the foot. Every self-respecting woman should have a pair of stiletto heels.
Shoes with this type of heel are a runway option, created for shocking effect. Wear such products in Everyday life almost impossible. These shoes are stage shoes.
The main thing in the kingdom of women's shoes are pumps. It turns out that the most popular women's shoes in the world are not even 70 years old. It was created by fashion designer Roger Vivier in 1955.
Pumps were originally servants' shoes. They had no heels and were just plain, round-toed shoes without any decoration. The French fashion designer designed a prototype of modern pumps with a pointed toe and thin heel.
Pump slingback. These are pumps with the deepest and most rounded neckline. These shoes look very sexy.
Pump peep-toe. Open toe high heel shoes. A cute playful model that is more suitable for walking around the city, dating, than for a work environment. Most often, ladies are tormented by the question of whether it is worth wearing tights with such pumps? Stylists suggest wearing special tights with open toes with this model.
D'Orsay. Model with open sides. Elegant shoes that make your legs visually slimmer. This type of boat is especially popular in the summer at events with a strict dress code. This is the case when you can’t wear sandals, but it’s hot in regular shoes. The D'Orsay model looks good with classic and casual clothes. Such shoes do not tolerate openly sportswear and beachwear.
Pigalle. Pigalle is an iconic shoe that is a prime example of the Pigalle model. The model has an elegant curved last and a 12 cm high stiletto heel. There is no other shoe that would so exquisitely highlight the beauty and tenderness of a woman’s foot.
Women have different attitudes towards this block. Some complain that it is impossible to walk in them for more than half an hour, others do not mind running cross-country in them. In any case, this is an option when the sacrifice for the sake of beauty is completely justified.
The iconic model is available in different variations. The most popular models are black, beige, white and red. The brand also produces pumps bright colors and even neon colors. There are products decorated with spikes, rhinestones, prints, and ornaments.
Celebrity ladies are ardent fans of Louboutin Pigalle. Among them are Victoria Beckham, Rihanna, Kim Kardashian.
Louboutins captivate with their versatility; they can be worn with both ripped jeans, so with the most chic dress to the Oscars ceremony. In any situation, a lady in such shoes feels 100%.
Even if you don't wear it every day, your wardrobe should have at least one treasured and versatile pair of stiletto heels. Fashionistas believe that there cannot be many pairs of such shoes!
Can't decide on the color of your shoes? Opt for black. It is universal and will not go out of fashion for decades.
You need to choose your wardrobe more carefully for this one. You shouldn't wear anything else shiny, because you will look like a gypsy.
This is the most stylish and noble option that can be worn “both at the feast and in the world.” Even a very high heel does not look so provocative on shoes of this shade.
This is an active color that looks good in informal setting. If you are planning negotiations with business partners in a restaurant, then Cocktail Dress and burgundy pumps are the best choice.
In these shoes you definitely won't get lost in the crowd. Pink, blue, yellow, light green - shades of youth, freshness, playfulness and good mood. Such a couple will be very relevant on a romantic date.
These shoes look great with a monochromatic outfit. Try looking for jewelry to match the pair you like, and you will be known as a real fashionista.
Unlike animal, “snake skin” is a more subdued color option. The texture of reptile skin can be barely visible on the product, and, nevertheless, add zest to the image.
A few rules to follow when choosing heel height:
Heels migrated from men's wardrobe into a woman's, while significantly changing her appearance. And, despite the fact that such shoes decorate the figure, making it slimmer and taller, most girls associate heels with pain and inconvenience.
To avoid unpleasant sensations from wearing shoes in the future, be more careful when purchasing a product. And remember, the main thing is fitting. You need to try on shoes in pairs. After that, get up and walk around the store. This is the only way you will understand whether you are comfortable or not.
The heel should be attached clearly to the center of the sole. And the gait must be stable. When you put on your shoes in the store, sway your feet from side to side; the correct heel will not allow you to do this. You also need to slide your foot forward without leaving the floor, while the heel should not move back. The fact is that if the heel is not stable, you risk serious dislocation if your foot suddenly slips, and this often happens.
A lot depends on the quality of the product; it is better to give preference to leather or suede. Artificial materials are bad not only because of their fragility. They do not allow the foot to breathe, which increases sweating, and calluses appear, and the possibility of developing allergies cannot be ruled out.
Remember that wearing heels every day is harmful, and if you do not feel heaviness in your legs, swelling and pain now, then this can easily develop later. And here it’s not a matter of aging at all, but the fact that heels put serious pressure on the spine and deform the foot. Yes, beauty requires sacrifices, but you can do without them if you wear shoes at the right time and in the right place.
In addition to the well-known stiletto heel, there are many other versions of high-heeled shoes that may be much more comfortable for you. That is why in this article we will talk about what types of heels exist.
Vienna heel
Simply put, a Viennese heel is just a thick heel on your sole. It’s hard to call it a heel, but still. Almost every type of shoe has a similar invisible “lift”. Most often, the Viennese heel can be found on ballet flats or sandals, but it is also widespread among other types of shoes - loafers, derbies, ankle boots. It is believed that flat-soled shoes, for example, sneakers, develop flat feet, while Viennese heels, on the contrary, are the safest of all.
Brick heel
This heel is named after its square-rectangular shape. Its advantage lies in its stability and convenience. It is not very tall, but it can visually make your image more elongated.
Wedge heel
If you imagine an inverted triangular prism, you will understand what a wedge-shaped heel looks like. It is this type of heel that is considered the most universal - it fits many shoe models and tends to be combined with almost any clothing (dresses, trousers, shorts, skirts - anything). Plus, it visually slims the leg and elongates the silhouette.
Cowboy heel
The cowboy heel is a low, square-shaped heel with a tapered back. Mostly found on cowboy boots or oxfords. Such boots, and therefore heels, are ideally combined with completely different types of jeans (feel free to choose not only skinny ones, but also flares), as well as with flowy dresses, cardigans and long vests.
Glass heel
A glass heel is a cross between flat shoes and, say, stiletto heels. You can safely choose this heel if you want to look elegant, but at the same time you know that you will spend the whole day on your feet. It also goes great with any outfit.
Column heel
Despite the fact that the column heel is a “high” heel, it is very stable, so it is suitable even for everyday wear. The heel fits tightly directly to the sole, does not narrow or deform anywhere, but, on the contrary, lives up to its name - it stands firmly on the ground.
Hairpin
Heels are great, especially if you don't have to walk on cobblestones, ice or take the subway. What I mean is, plan your path to achieving your goal when you put on certain shoes, otherwise you risk getting stuck somewhere.
Wedge or platform
Chic and comfortable summer option for all those who like to show off their slender legs. You can easily walk on a wedge for hours and not be afraid of fatigue.
Trapeze heel
A trapezoid heel represents a fairly massive wide heel, where the top of the heel is somewhat narrower than the bottom. These shoes will fit perfectly into a retro look, and they look great on your feet.
Curly heel
Curly heels are for the brave. These are all those same incredible and unimaginable models of shoes with fanciful, even crazy platforms and stiletto heels. “Creative heels,” as they are often called, are difficult to find on the street because they are not suitable for everyday wear, but as an addition to a look at a fashion show - easily.
As you understand, there are a limitless variety of high-heeled shoes and they are all different. Therefore, everyone can find the perfect pair of shoes for themselves, if only they want it.
Shoe dictionary: How to choose shoes with heels and is there life after heels? was last modified: December 14, 2019 by Dasha Krasnova
Initially, the heel was invented as a mandatory element of men's shoes. This device helped the rider keep his foot in the stirrup. Over time, the heel transformed and became the property of the female half of humanity. Now high-heeled shoes were used to achieve completely different goals.
Today, high-heeled shoes can be found in the wardrobe of absolutely any woman, even those who prefer to wear flat shoes. Fashion designers from all corners of the globe offer us a wide variety of models of women's shoes with all kinds of heels. All you have to do is decide which type of heel will suit you best and help you feel confident every day. In the meantime, let's figure out what types of heels there are and how they differ from each other.
Vienna heel
The Viennese heel is one of the “flattest” representatives of this category, its height ranges from 0.5 to 2 cm. It is considered one of the most beneficial for the foot. Most often, this type of heel can be found on women's ballet shoes.
Brick heel
This heel is slightly higher than the previous one. Its height ranges from 2 to 4 cm. It is shaped like a square and is one of the most comfortable and stable. Brick - perfect option for tall girls. This type of heel is commonly found on boots, ankle boots, and boots.
Cowboy heel
Cowboy heels are perfect for fans of Western style. It is low, looks a little rough and has a sloping back. This type of heel is mainly characteristic of cowboy boots.
Wedge heel
The main highlight of this type of heel is its shape, reminiscent of an inverted triangular prism. This heel is good choice for those who want to visually make their legs longer.
Cone heel
This type of heel resembles an inverted geometric shape with a tapered end. As a rule, this is a very stable, feminine and high heel that looks perfect paired with elegant dresses.
Glass heel
In most cases, the glass is a low heel with a wide base and a tapered bottom. In itself it is very unstable, but has gained some popularity among tall girls.
Column heel
Straight and always stable heel regardless of height. It is chosen for everyday wear, as it is very comfortable and gives confidence to the gait.
Stacked heel
Stacked heels are a special type. It is not a single product, but consists of many components connected to each other. This technology for making heels began to be used in the early 20s.
Wedge heel
Actually, this is not a heel, but a sole that thickens towards the heel. The wedge is one of the most ancient types of sole, which was previously made from wood or cork. Today, such shoes are most often worn in the summer, combined with light dresses or sundresses.
Hairpins or studs
This is one of the most famous and common types of heels. Wearing stilettos for a long time is not recommended, but the ability to walk in such heels is a real skill. Carnations are always made tall, and their design contains a metal rod.
Stiletto heel
A stiletto is the same hairpin or stud. Its only difference is that the metal rod is not covered with anything.
Flared heel
A flared heel is somewhat similar to a stiletto heel, but with a wider bottom, making it a more stable option.
French heel or “pigeon foot”
This type of heel is concave inward and visually makes the leg smaller - a suitable option for owners big size legs.
Fantasy heel
Creatively shaped heels, as a rule, are not something you simply see on the street. Walking on them is not only scary, but also dangerous. These heels are usually created for catwalks or showrooms.
This short guide to the main types of heels will help you understand the benefits of each and successfully alternate between different models to create spectacular image on every day.
We, the fair sex, are so used to walking in heels that we don’t even think that this invention was originally a man’s and had practical purposes. The heel helped medieval horsemen better fix their feet in the stirrup. Only a few centuries later, the fashion for high heels appeared (in the middle of the 17th century), capturing the whole world and giving ladies the opportunity to become taller and slimmer. But did you know that there are many types of heels? Among them there are basic types and unique specimens - the result of the creative thoughts of designers. Let's talk about them - about high and low, about rough and graceful, about stable and fragile heels.
1. Viennese heel
Viennese heel is the lowest heel (from 0.5 to 2 centimeters). When buying ballet flats or summer sandals with such a heel, many ladies believe that they are purchasing “flat” shoes, but it is still a heel and it has its own name. It is very comfortable to walk on, your feet feel great in such shoes, and your spine remains healthy and strong.
2. Brick heel
A brick is a stable, square-shaped heel, two to four centimeters high. Designers willingly equip both women's and women's shoes with such heels. men's shoes: shoes, shoes, boots with brick heels look very stylish and modern. Every fashionista should have such comfortable and practical shoes.
3. Wedge heel
The wedge heel is an inverted triangular prism shaped heel. It can be of completely different heights. It is believed that a heel of this shape slims the legs, but I don’t entirely agree with this. When the wedge heel is not high enough, the shoes on it look somehow old and grandmotherly. Due to the fact that the upper part is quite massive, and the base itself is very narrow, such heels very quickly get knocked down and lose their attractive appearance.
4. Cowboy heel
A cowboy heel is a fairly wide and low heel with a characteristic slight bevel in the back. These heels can be found on boots and boots in a cowboy style, which have recently become very popular.
5. Heel - glass
A glass is a heel with a wide base and a thin tip, reminiscent of the stem of a glass. This heel is terribly uncomfortable, not very high, but it can become good solution for very tall girls who want to wear thin heels, but cannot wear stilettos due to their height. This heel ranks very last on my secret list - I don’t like it so much!
Although the Valentino shoes in the photo above are really okay!
6. Heel - column
A very stable and reliable column heel is perhaps the most comfortable type of high heel. So it’s not surprising that modern fashionistas fell in love with it. Even a very high heel of this type is quite comfortable to wear, especially if the shoes are additionally equipped with a platform. This allows you to make the climb more gentle on your legs and spine.
7. Heel - flared
A flared heel is a type of heel, which in its shape is very similar to the once popular flared trousers. In the heel area, such a heel is narrower than the supporting base of the heel itself. In some shoe models, such a heel looks very original.
8. Wedge heel
A wedge is also a type of heel, but the heel in such shoes is integral with the platform. This heel is incredibly comfortable; it provides an even load on the entire foot, and not on a separate part of it. That is why the wedge heel is a very popular solution nowadays, especially in summer models shoes
9. Hairpin
The stiletto heel is a real queen, which for several decades has not conceded the podium to any other type of heel. The hairpin always looks elegant and gentle. This heel adds airiness to any look, but it’s not very comfortable to wear, especially for every day. Stiletto heels are shoes for going out, evening shoes, but not shoes for walking for many hours.
10. Heel - trapezoid
The trapezoid heel represents a fairly massive wide heel, where the top of the heel is somewhat narrower than the bottom. In the photo above you can see several Prada shoes that were shown during one of the shows at Milan Fashion Week in 2015.
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