What are pumps? Simply put, pumps are one of the more common types of high heels around. The most classic iteration of pump heels features a closed toe, a topline that exposes the top of the foot and a heel. A staple in every polished wardrobe, pumps have since been reimagined in countless ways, from platform pumps to Mary Jane pumps, and with different toe shapes, heel shapes and heel heights.
Heeled sandals come in a wide variety of looks. Examples include iconic strappy stiletto sandals, ankle-wrap sandals and gladiator sandals, plus they are also available in a range of heel heights.
Heeled boots and heeled booties come in a multitude of styles. They range from function-focused designs constructed for utility, such as weather boots, to boldly dramatic thigh-high boots, stiletto-heeled ankle booties and more.
Stiletto heels are defined by their streamlined and pointed shape — a detail that gives them the elegant leg-lengthening effect they are known for. The most common types of stilettos include pointed-toe stiletto pumps and sleek, strappy stiletto sandals. Due to their construction, which places the weight on just the ball of the foot and the thin heel, stiletto shoes are usually worn as evening and special occasion shoes.
Block heels refer to more substantial, blockier shapes. Block-heeled shoes distribute weight more evenly and, as such, they provide more support than their stiletto-heeled counterparts. Tall enough to elevate your look yet comfortable enough for everyday, they are universally loved for their wearability and versatility. The types of shoes block heels can appear on include boots, booties, pumps, loafers and sandals.
Wedge heels are defined by a wedged component that serves as both the sole and heel of the shoe. This detail ensures that weight is distributed evenly along the entire base of the foot for wearability. With this, wedges offer an effortless boost of style, making them equally ideal for day and night. This heel shape may be paired with everything from espadrilles to sandals to pumps to sneakers.
What sets platform heels apart is the addition of a plateau at the base of the toe. This detail creates less of an incline when paired with towering high heels and, in turn, places less pressure on the ball of the foot. Platforms are a must-have look this season, and interpretations of the trend include platform stiletto heels, platform sandals, platform pumps, platform boots and more.
Sculptural heels are designed with a distinctively architectural sensibility. That is, they may not be uniform in shape from start to finish. This type of heel can be seen on everything from sandals — such as our PLAYA KNOT sandals — to pumps and boots, as seen on our XCURVE styles.
Kitten-heel shoes generally range between 1.5 and 2 inches in height, making them among the shortest heel shapes. This classic heel shape, often seen on kitten-heel sandals or kitten-heel pumps, is ideal for those looking for a subtle boost without sacrificing comfort.
High-heeled shoes feature heels measuring 4 inches and more.
Mid-heeled shoes, sometimes known as medium-heeled shoes, feature heels that range between 3 and 4 inches.
Low-heeled shoes feature heels measuring up to 3 inches. The terms “low heel” and “short heel” can be used interchangeably.
The square toe is one of the most-wanted looks of the season. Modern iterations feature angular lines and can range from squared just at the tip to dramatically squared. In fact, square-toe heels can include anything from boots to strappy sandals of all heel heights to square-toe wedges and more.
A style classic, round-toe heels are defined by a rounded toe box. They generally have a wider fit and tend to be more casual, too.
Perhaps one of the most common toe shapes around, almond-toe heels span everything from sandals to pumps and more. Almond toes are a perfect combination of pointed and round toes — rounded with a slightly more elongated middle, they lend a polished vibe to any look.
Pointed-toe heels refer to silhouettes with a narrower toe box that culminates in a pointed tip. This sharp silhouette, most frequently seen in the form of a pointed-toe pump, is inherently glamorous and has long cemented its place as a timeless style classic.
Peep-toe heels feature a smaller opening at the toe compared to open-toe heels and are designed to give a peekaboo effect. This detail is usually seen on peep-toe espadrilles, peep-toe pumps, peep-toe booties and more.