How to, Style Guides

How to Wear Black Heels: Pumps, Slingbacks and Mules

How to, Style Guides

How to Wear Black Heels: Pumps, Slingbacks and Mules

0

Black heels are the one shoe that works with every colour and almost every dress code. The trick is matching the shape to the outfit: a pointed pump lengthens the leg under a midi, a slingback suits tailoring and cropped trousers, and a heeled mule is the easiest to slip on with jeans. Shop every pair in stock on our black heels page.

The black pump

The pump is the most useful heel you can own. A pointed toe and a mid heel look sharp with a pencil skirt, a slip dress and straight trousers, and it moves from the office to dinner without a change. Max Mara, Alaïa, The Attico and Carolina Herrera all make black pumps, from classic leather to patent.

For work, choose a heel between 50 mm and 75 mm. For evening, go higher and choose satin and patent, which catch the light.

The black slingback

A slingback is lighter than a pump and easier to walk in, because the open heel gives the foot more room. It suits cropped tailoring, a midi skirt and a summer dress. Alaïa and Carolina Herrera make black slingbacks, and ATP Atelier makes leather pairs for the day.

The black mule

A heeled mule is the quickest heel to put on and the most relaxed to wear. It works with wide trousers, straight jeans and a slip dress. Alaïa and Magda Butrym make black mules, and a pointed toe keeps them polished.

What to wear with black heels

Black heels suit every colour, so let the rest of the outfit lead. With a black dress they make one long, clean line. With colour, from a red dress to an emerald dress, they ground a bright look. Sheer black tights are the winter partner, and nude tights lengthen the leg with a lighter dress.

For flat days, see our black flats, and for summer evenings our black sandals.

Frequently asked questions

What heel height is most comfortable?

A heel between 50 mm and 75 mm is easiest for all-day wear. Block heels and slingbacks spread the weight further than a stiletto.

Are black heels good for a wedding?

Yes. Black heels suit almost every wedding dress code. Choose satin and patent for an evening reception and a slingback for a daytime ceremony.

Should black heels match a black bag?

They do not have to. A black heel with a black bag looks classic, but a black heel with a colourful bag makes a confident contrast.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *