Naughty-But-Nice Kitten Heels Are the Work Shoe Trend You Need to Know

The boots were purchased in October and the coat and down jacket were purchased in November. December is a popular month for loungewear. As for January? It’s all about the essentials that set the tone for spring: stylish everyday handbags, confidence-boosting workwear, and shoes that meet your current needs while keeping an eye on what’s to come. The pursuit of the latter is a tricky proposition: Sneakers look too casual for most formal occasions, while teetering stilettos often look out of place in broad daylight. Not every day is a boot day, and while loafers and ballet flats are loyal companions to most outfits, they don’t have to be the only default choice.

A little bit naughty, a little bit pretty, kitten heels are perfect for the 9-to-5 and are sophisticated yet practical. They’re tall enough to allow you to stand a little taller, but are still a smart choice for commuting, back-to-back meetings, and after-get off work plans across town. In addition to the standard black leather, there are many options on the market now.

For starters, a bold shoe is a great way to subtly incorporate this season’s color trends: The Row and Proenza Schouler didn’t hesitate to embrace red, while Khaite combined both trends with zebra-print mules. (The embellished citron is just as juicy.) Toteme applied minimalist lenses to wedges in a sharp, bright white effect, while Gucci gave traditional pumps a foldable back for the Italian way when you just want to slip on and go.

Whether you prefer lively hues, rich textures, or sophisticated neutrals, we’re calling these little heels “fashionable catnip.”