Naughty-But-Nice Kitten Heels: Your New Go-To Work Shoe

Boots are purchased in October, coats and puffer jackets acquired in November. December is when loungewear gets an up-down. As for January? It’s all about essentials that set the tone for spring: A sleek everyday handbag, confidence-boosting work wear, and shoes to match the needs of right now, while keeping an eye toward what’s to come. The quest for the latter is a tricky one: Sneakers read too casual in most formal settings, whereas teetering stilettos usually feel out of place in broad daylight. Not everyday is a boots day, and while loafers and ballet flats are faithful companions to most outfits, they needn’t be the only default. A little naughty, a little nice, kitten heels offer nine-to-five wear in polished yet practical form. They have just enough height to make you stand a hair taller, but are still sensible choices for commutes, back-to-back meetings, and post-work plans across town. And there’s plenty of choice on the market right now beyond your standard black leather fare. A bold shoe, for starters, is a great way to play with the season’s color trends in a subtle way: The Row and Proenza Schouler do red unapologetically, while Khaite marries two trends in one with a zebra print, pony hair mule. (The embellished citron is equally juicy.) Toteme applies its minimalist lens to the wedge with a sharp, optic white take, while Gucci gives the traditional pump a collapsible back, for when you just want to slip on and go, the Italian way. Whether you’re drawn to lively hues, rich texture, or refined neutrals, we’re calling these kitten heels how we see it: fashion catnip.