Fashionable Stiletto Alternatives and 8 Ways to Style Them
Hello my fashionable friends,
When I think about the components of an outfit and which pieces have the ability to elevate or ruin a look, shoes immediately come to mind. You can wear an inexpensive outfit and style it so it exudes luxe, but when it comes to footwear — if your shoes are subpar, there is almost no redemption. The good news is there are shoes in endless styles, colors, fabrics, heel heights, and price points—so there are options for just about every taste.
I love all types of shoes, but I have a particular love for stilettos—which can be gorgeous to look at, but challenging to wear. I have spent many years walking and running around New York City in high heels — and I’ve paid my dues—but I’m thinking it’s time to take things down a notch.
Now I’m not giving up stilettos completely, but I will be more prudent about where and when I wear them going forward.
Taking it Down a Notch
Fortunately, lower heels don’t mean lower impact. You can still make a powerful statement with more comfy shoes that are just as fabulous as high heels. By selecting styles with interesting textures and details, you can make sure all eyes are on your footwear.
If you’re thinking about diversifying your shoe collection, consider these alternatives.
Chunky Heels, Wedges, and Platform Shoes
Chunky heels, wedges, and platform shoes are great because they provide stability and balance. You can walk confidently down the city streets without having to cautiously navigate every crack and crevice. They’re available in various heights, and the lower-heeled versions provide the most comfort — but to me — even the higher-heeled versions are easier to manage than stilettos.
Caution: If your heel, wedge, or platform is too high, you may run into issues with stability, so be careful.
Borrow from the Boys
I love the look of a great oxford, derby, loafer or other shoe that has a “masculine” vibe to it. Their smart tailoring and dandy sensibilities make them a standout look. And they’re not just available in neutral colors. Selecting a shoe with a metallic or patent finish, or in a pastel or bright color will enhance an already great-looking shoe.
Check out these collections at DSW and BNB Heaven. Or take a peek at The Office of Angela Scott—great styles with amazing quality!
Flats and Kitten Heels
Flats are amazing for providing comfort and ease. To make sure your shoes get the attention they deserve, consider styles in an interesting color, pattern, or that include some type of embellishment. Check out these collections of flats here, here and here.
And if you’re looking for sustainable options, check out Rothy’s. This company creates cute comfy styles and they engage in earth-friendly practices, like incorporating repurposed water bottles into their fabric. Their styles are also washable, so you can throw them in the washing machine when they need a little freshening up. The adorable blue and white flats pictured above are available at Rothy’s.
Kitten heels are the “baby sister” of their higher-heeled counter parts, but with a more manageable heel height. Swap out your stilettos for kitten heels with an interesting heel shape or fabric.
Sneakers
The global sneaker market is in the hundreds of millions of dollars and with good reason. In addition to providing comfort and protection for sports and working out, sneakers are great for casual wear, leisure, and for making a fashion statement.
There are so many styles to choose from including classics like Chuck Taylors, Adidas Superstar, Vans, and Stan Smiths. Or you may like Jordans — or even designer sneakers. Regardless of your preference, there are plenty of sneakers for every taste.
Boots
Boots are available in a multitude of styles—including lower-heeled versions. When you think about options such as ankle boots, riding boots, over-the-knee boots and more, you quickly realize there is a style for just about every occasion. Intensify your shoe game without the heel height, by following the same method for selecting your other footwear. Choose impactful, interesting, and unique styles.
Styling Ideas
Yes! You can still kill the shoe game even if stilettos are not part of your style repertoire. And when it comes to styling your chunky heels, flats, or sneakers, you have a number of options. Check out the eight styling tips I’ve outlined below.
Wear your sneakers, oxfords, or flats with a maxi skirt or dress
2. Try sneakers, oxfords, kitten heels, or flats with jeans or dressier pants
3. Chunky heels look great with ankle length, cuffed, or cropped pants
4. Chunky heels or wedges with a dress or skirt, and more delicate fabrics provide an interesting contrast
5. Consider sneakers with wide leg jeans or shorts—top off with a leather or contrasting denim jacket
6. Or try a classic look like sneakers with a sweatsuit
7. A blazer or topcoat worn with jeans and sneakers adds polish to your look
8. Pair your boots with a midi skirt, skinny jeans, shorts, or leggings
Shop my top picks
Now that you know how to style your lower-heeled footwear, consider adding a fun and fashionable pair to your wardrobe. Check out this collection of great styles that I pulled together for you.
I love fashion because there is more than one way to be stylish and express your individuality. Consider your preferences, lifestyle, and level of comfort when figuring out what to add to your wardrobe. If stilettos are out of your comfort zone, then find a fabulous alternative!
Thank you for reading and please visit me again soon.