Your In-Depth Guide To 27 Different Types Of Shoes For Women
Whether you’re a fashionista or just looking to spruce up your closet, these 27 types of shoes for women are essential.
Having a wide variety of shoes in your closet is a must, especially if you care about fashion. Different styles, heel height, and material all varies the function of how you can wear them. Many shoe aficionados like to have at least one pair in their collection that can work with formal wear or casual outfits.
From sneakers to stilettos, women’s shoes come in many different types. Good footwear plays an essential part in making every outfit look complete and polished. Get the right pair of shoes and you’re sure to look smart and chic wherever you go, while a bad choice can ruin everything.
Everyone needs a classic a pair of footwear that will take you through all seasons. These are the 27 different types of shoes that every woman should have in their closet!
Oh and before we start… ALL of the shoes featured below are completely shoppable, so if you see something that you like, simply click on the photo, and it will take you to the retailer’s website for purchase.
The Best Types Of Shoes For Women
1. Stilettos
The stiletto heel is an iconic staple shoe of many women’s wardrobes. The stiletto heel has been around since the 1930s, but it remains just as popular today as ever. The key to a classic stiletto is that it has a slender, pointed tip. This style of heel tends to be higher than others, with heels ranging from 2 inches to 5 inches.
Stilettos come in every color imaginable and are usually made out of leather or suede. They can also be found in materials like patent leather, satin, velvet and fabric prints like leopard print or animal print.
These sky-high heels are a classic favorite by women for dressy occasions – but it’s totally not a requirement!
2. Slingbacks
If you’re interested in another style of shoe that’s classy and dressy, slingbacks might be the way to go. They come in a variety of styles and colors, so you can find something that matches your personal style.
The main difference between the slingback and other types of heels is that the adjustable heel strap attached to the sole doesn’t wrap all the way around your foot; instead, it goes across at an angle (hence “slingback”).
This means they’re pretty secure compared to other types of heels—you’ll want to make sure you have good grip on them before walking down any stairs or hills! The straps are usually made out of soft leather, and sometimes have added decorations like jewels for extra sparkle – perfect for a special occasion. You can choose slingbacks with low-block heels or higher heels – whatever fits your preference.
3. Wedges
This type of shoe has a wedge sole, which means that one material serves two functions: the sole and the heel. This makes it easy to walk in wedges and they are much more comfortable than high heels.
Wedge shoes are popular for their comfort and style, which can be dressed up with jeans or dresses. They’re also very versatile—you can wear them with skirts, trousers, or shorts! Wedges are also a summer season favorite – so it’s a wise idea to invest in a few pairs for the upcoming warm months.
4. Loafers
Loafers are a type of closed shoe that can be worn with jeans, slacks and even pantsuits. They’re casual yet still dressy enough to be worn with dresses or skirts. Sometimes you’ll see loafers referred to as “slip-on shoes” because they don’t have laces, but once you’ve slipped them onto your feet, you’ll see how comfortable they are.
Penny loafers are the most popular style under this shoe type, although there are a few more that deserve their own spotlight. Loafers can be treated as business casual shoes, in the way that you can wear them for the office, and for normal everyday wear.
5. Mary Janes
Mary Janes are a type of shoe with a low heel, rounded toes and an ankle strap. They’re most commonly made from leather or suede and are designed to be worn with dresses, skirts or even jeans. They were originally popular in the early 1900s but have come back into fashion recently thanks to their versatility and ability to complement any outfit.
Preppy and pretty, these Mary Janes can be worn for both casual occasions as well as more formal ones. If you want something that looks good under your jeans or shorts but still gives your feet some support without going overboard on height, this is definitely the shoe for you.
Since they’re considered as formal shoes, you can definitely use these for school or office wear!
6. Flats
Flats are some of the most versatile types of shoes you can own. They’re comfortable and easy to wear, which makes them great for work or play. Flats come in a different styles and various colours, so you can find something that fits your personal style.
They’re also perfect for transitioning from spring into summer without having to change your entire wardrobe.
We especially love these flat, feather-lined peach sandals because they’re super cute and super chic, perfect for dressing up an otherwise plain outfit. And of course, every lady needs a fun pair of footwear in their closet!
7. Ankle Boots
Ankle boots are a popular choice for all seasons, but most especially for fall and winter. They can be worn with jeans, skirts, or dresses and they look great with any outfit.
You can wear ankle boots with casual outfits like leggings and t-shirts, but they can also look professional when paired with a pencil skirt or tailored pants.
8. Knee-High Boots
Knee-high boots are usually made of leather and have a tall shaft that goes all the way up to the knees (or just a little below it). The heel can be flat, which makes them comfortable to walk in for long periods of time. But if you want something more feminine, then a block-heel or stiletto-heel might be better suited for you.
A pair of knee-high boots can be worn with skirts, dresses or jeans. They can be worn in the winter or fall as well as any other season!
9. Chelsea Boots
Chelsea boots are another style of ankle-high boots, but with elastic sides. Like many other shoe styles on this list, Chelsea boots can be worn with pretty much anything, depending on how you style it.
They come in so many different colors and styles that you should have no trouble finding one that matches your personal style!
10. Sneakers
Sneakers are probably the most popular type of casual shoe for women. They’re comfortable, easy to wear and can be worn with many different outfits if you want that laid-back look. There are many different kinds of sneakers on the market today; from low-top sneakers like Converse or Vans to high-top sneaker styles like Nike and Adidas.
You can get them in your casual outfit or something more sophisticated. In general, it’s a good idea to buy a pair of sneakers that fit well when you first try them on because some sneakers tend not to expand as much as most other types of footwear will do over time.
11. Boat Shoes
Boat shoes are regal and super comfortable. They’re the perfect shoes for warm weather, and they can be worn casually with jeans or dressed up with a dress. If you have an active lifestyle and want to wear something that will keep your feet happy while running errands or hanging out by the docks, boat shoes are a great option.
These comfortable shoes are named the way they are because they’re made from leather, and are designed to resemble dock shoes that are used to be worn by sailors.
There’s no denying that these classic silhouettes are both timeless and versatile. Just one rule to follow when wearing these, though – you must only wear no-show socks, or else it’ll look awkward!
12. Combat Boots
Combat boots are a type of shoe that is usually made made of leather or rubber, and (sometimes) canvas. They are typically ankle-high and have a round-toed design. The original purpose for combat boots was to be worn by military personnel on the battlefields during war.
Today, they can be seen as part of everyday casual wear for women who want to look fashionable while also being able to withstand any weather conditions out there, thanks to their thick, lug rubber soles!
These types of shoes usually come in either black or brown colors which gives off an edgy vibe when paired together with jeans or leather leggings, since they will match perfectly well together without looking like an outfit that’s too plain and boring.
13. Ballerina Flats
Ballerina flats are a type of shoe with a flat heel. As the name suggests, they are designed to look like a pair of shoes worn by ballerinas.
They can also be decorated with ribbons, bows, and tassels. These ballet shoes are very comfortable and can be worn in many situations from casual to dressy outfits – making these the favorite shoes for a whole lot of ladies.
14. Mules
Mules are a type of closed-toe shoe that no back. Mules can be made out of leather or other materials such as fabric, canvas, plastic, or even rubber.
Mules are comfortable to wear because they don’t have an arch in them like a lot of shoes often do. This is what makes them popular with women who want something casual and comfortable.
15. Espadrilles
Espadrilles are a type of shoe with a canvas upper and a rope or leather sole. They are usually casual, but can be dressed up depending on the material and style.
These very feminine women’s shoes can come in different styles; the most popular one being wedge espadrilles. There are also ballerina-style espadrilles and flat sandal styles (like the one we featured above). Espadrilles are typically more associated with spring and summer outfits, and we especially love wearing them to our sunny beach trips!
16. Kitten Heels
Kitten heels are a type of shoe that has been around since the late 1950s. They have a heel height between 1 inch and 3 inches, which makes them relatively comfortable to wear. The heels make the wearer look taller and more elegant, while also being more practical than other high heels.
Kitten heels can be worn with most outfits, but they do need some careful attention when it comes to color choice and outfit coordination. If you’ve chosen these cute little heels as one of your go-to shoes, then you’ll want to know how best they work with different outfits so you can feel confident every time you step out in them!
17. Platform Sandals
Platform sandals are an easy and stylish way to add height to your look, especially if you’re going for that Barbie-ish y2k aesthetic. They can be worn with anything from jeans to dresses and in any season, making them a great staple for all women.
If you’re worried about having short legs, platforms are a great option—they’ll make it appear as though there is more of your leg showing than there actually is!
18. Platform Heels
When it comes to height, platform heels are one of the best ways to add some. These shoes have a raised heel and sole, which means you’ll be able to walk around in them without feeling like you’re walking on your tippy toes. The platform adds height while the sole keeps your feet comfortable for longer periods of time.
Because they look like regular high heels, you can wear them with almost any outfit—you name it!
19. Peep Toe Shoes
Peep toe shoes are ones that have an opening in the front of the foot, exposing your gorgeous pedicures. They’re often made of leather or suede (but can be made with other materials too such as canvas). Peep toe heels are great for women who want to show off their toes!
20. D’orsay Shoes
D’Orsay shoes are named after Count Alfred d’Orsay, who was an artist. They have a low heel and a pointed toe, with the vamp (the upper) extending all the way to the end of the foot. During the 19th century, D’Orsay shoes were typically worn by men, and the open sides were designed to accommodate wider feet.
They typically come in black or brown leather and are often used for formal occasions, such as weddings and proms. If you want something that resembles a pair of pumps but with a unique design, then these are a good pair of shoes to start with!
21. Clogs
Clogs are a type of hard-soled shoe that have traditionally been worn in Europe and other parts of the world. Clogs are usually made from wood, but they can also be made from rubber or other materials.
Clogs can be worn year round by both men and women because they are easy to slip on and off when the weather warms up or cools down! In addition to being versatile (you can wear them with shorts during summer months), clogs also look great when paired with jeans during colder months because they help keep your feet warm.
No matter what season it is where you live though – whether it’s hot or cold – there’s no reason not to show off your style sense while still remaining comfortable at work or while running errands around town.
Crocs are a famous example of modern-day clogs.
22. Moccasins
Moccasins are a casual closed-toe shoe that you can wear with jeans or pants that are pretty similar to loafers. They’re lightweight and comfortable.
Made from leather or suede, moccasins have a soft sole with no heel. They come in many colors and styles—but we love a classic one like the pair featured above.
23. Pumps
Pumps are typically closed-toe shoes, with a low heel. They are made of leather or suede and come in a variety of styles and colors. Pumps are the perfect shoe for any formal occasion, such as weddings, proms and other special occasions. The low heel on these shoes makes them very comfortable to walk in all day long!
24. Thigh-High Boots
Thigh-high boots are a great way to add height to your style, especially if you’re short. They can be worn with dresses, skirts, or jeans—and you can even wear them without tights if you want! Thigh-high boots can come in a variety of colors and materials, including leathers and suede. These boots definitely give off an edgy vibe so they’re perfect for those who love to stand out from the crowd.
25. Thong Sandals
Thong sandals, also known as flip flops, are a type of open-toe sandal.
They feature a really thin strap that goes between the toes and not around them. The strap is usually made from rubber or plastic and has become very popular in recent years because they’re comfortable to wear during warm weather.
Thongs are typically low cut and have narrow toe boxes that don’t offer much support for your feet; however, they can be worn anywhere from the beach to out on the town! They’re great for summertime activities when you want something light on your feet but still keep them covered up at all times (unless you choose to go barefoot).
26. Strappy Sandals
A strappy sandal is a great choice for warm weather. These shoes are designed to match with your shorts or sundresses. They come in many different heights and styles, so you can wear them with most outfits!
Strappy sandals are an amazing choice, as they will give your foot more room to breathe while being secure enough. We strongly recommend wearing these with dresses for that ultra-feminine look!
27. Clear Shoes
Clear shoes are a great choice for all seasons, as the transparent material is light and airy and will keep your feet cool. These shoes can be worn with almost any outfit, so whether you’re going out to brunch or just hitting the beachside restaurants, these will fit right in.
The open-toe design makes them easy to walk in, which is ideal if you’re planning on walking around town all day long. They’re comfortable enough to wear during an all-day shopping trip or even while rocking out at your favorite concert.
Conclusion
Shoes are one of the most important accessories. They can make or break your outfit and they can also make or break a woman’s confidence. Shoes are a great way to express your style and personality, which is why everyone should have at least one pair of shoes in their closet that reflects who they are as a person.
Shoes can help you create looks that are unique to you, instead of following the trends that everyone else is doing at any given time. There’s no reason why women should wear heels all day long just because someone else has decided it’s cool; instead, let yourself be inspired by these 2y types of shoes for women and create outfits using them!
We hope this article has given you a better idea of the types of shoes that are available for women in today’s market! If you’re still on the hunt for more fashion tips and inspiration, check the posts down below.
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