You Need a Kitten Heel In Your Closet

Welcome to The Essentials, our weekly series highlighting a must-have classic, key to building a timeless, pulled-together closet.

This season, brands like Miu Miu, Prada, and Valentino took a break from the towering heels of the past and opted for something more modest: The kitten heel. Originally put on the map in the '50s, kitten heels flaunt a heel that's usually only around two inches. The low heel offers a practical but stylish (and foot-friendly) alternative to the classic heel.

Off the runway, kitten heel inspiration is everywhere. From Marilyn Monroe to Carrie Bradshaw to Naomi Campbell, there's plenty of style inspo for those in need. Looking for tips? Pair an open toe kitten-heel with a floral dress for a breezy take. Add a pointed-toe version to cropped jeans, or a bootie to a mid-length dress. Kitten heels are both feminine and retro, but more importantly, versatile—you'll have them in your wardrobe for years to come. Perfect for work, evening, and anywhere in between, here are some of the best options to choose from right now.