THE last time kitten heels were the height of fashion was the late 1990s, when they were championed by the fashion gurus of the day, Trinny and Susannah.
Now, along with just about every other 90s trend, the mini-heel is back, with sub-two-inch stilettos on show at Dior, Prada, Miu Miu and Balenciaga.
If this is your first foray into kitten territory, you'll soon discover why the cute, low-heeled style is beloved of designers and street style stars alike.
Why? Because they give you a little bit of a lift without any of the pain of a high heel – and you get to show off your fashion credentials as you ride the trend wave.
So how to wear kitten heels now? It's all about keeping your look fresh and modern. Here's our pick of the best buys on the high street, and what to wear them with...
1. Sleek silver kitten heels
The style: Shiny, metallic mules or two-part courts.
Wear them with: Acid wash, loose-fit denim and a statement blouse.
Office Martini Silver Point Mule Kitten Heels, £65
M&S Collection Silver Kitten Court Shoes, £35
2. Kitten heel mules
The style: Backless leather or suede in neutral tones, they're the most minimal of all.
Wear them with: Statement trousers (think frayed-edge or tassel-hemmed), a plain tee and a cropped jacket slung over your shoulders.
Topshop Jackson Black Kitten Pointed Mules, £52
Next Pink Leather Mules, £45
3. Embellished kitten heels
The style: Pastel or jewel-toned satin, with oodles of sequin or diamante detailing. Prim princess shoes, basically.
Wear them with: Block colour midi and pleated skirts, or culottes, to show off your snazzy shoes.
No.21 Embellished Knotted Satin Mules, £515, Net-a-Porter
M&S Collection Satin Court Shoes, £39.50
4. Pointed toe kitten heels
The style: Referencing the 60s or the 80s, these court shoes are as retro as the kitten heel gets.
Wear them with: Structured A-line miniskirts and a round cross-body mini bag to amp up the 60s vibe.
Dune Courtnee Blush Court Shoes, £75
Office Madam Off White Pointed Kitten Heels, £65
