For a few years, the flat held its ground: the ballet flat, the loafer, the chunky sneaker. Comfort had its moment, and let’s be honest, it earned it. But as we reclaim the joy of looking elevated, the casual heel has emerged as our most powerful tool.
The Casual Heel is Back
Adding a few centimeters of height does more than just lift the hem of a jean; it changes your posture, your silhouette, and your mood. Low enough to wear on a Tuesday, yet considered enough to change the energy of an outfit entirely. It’s the ultimate shortcut to looking more intentional. It sends one loud, clear message: you don’t have to suffer to look put together. You just have to choose the right shoe.
Here are five worth choosing:
1. The Loop 35 Beaded Leather Sandals by Khaite
Strappy, goatskin leather, 35mm heel, and a pop of color – what’s not to love? Khaite had already mastered the art of the effortless casual heel, but the beaded iteration is giving the type of playful, artisanal energy to make even the most uneventful outfits look curated.
2. Dark Brown Kitten-Heeled Sandals by H&M
Flip flops with a tiny heel sounds like it shouldn’t work as well as it does. The brown colorway in particular feels like the kind of footwear you put on with a linen dress at noon and somehow still look like you thought about it. Affordable enough to not overthink. Good enough to wear constantly throughout the summer.
3. The Carla Sandal by Sam Edelman
A green strap, a floral-detailed sole, 3D appliqué that makes the shoe feel like a work of art. Sam Edelman consistently delivers the kind of intricate detail that punches well above its price point. This is the kind of casual heel you can pair with your simplest wardrobe staples and let the craftsmanship do the talking. It is everything you want from a casual heel.
4. Daksie Lace Heels by dolce vita
White with lace-trim and a 2.4 inch heel: it sounds precious, and it is. Dolce vita is known for its comfortable footwear, and the Daksie is no exception. The lace adds texture, while the modest heel allows for all-day wear without the usual fatigue. Whether paired with light wash denim or a silk slip dress, it adds a layer of romance to your look.
5. Baby Blue Clean Cut Slip-on Heels by Achilles
This piece has a 2.5 inch block heel, a cushioned platform, and a subtle peep-toe. The baby blue color adds a soft pop of color to an otherwise understated outfit. It’s the casual heel you put on when you have a long day ahead but still want to look polished.
