Kitten heels are small, delicate shoes with low heels. They usually have a heel height of one to two inches. These shoes were a fashion staple in the 1950s and 1960s. They give off a strong retro vibe. Today, kitten heels are making a comeback. They are perfect for creating a vintage-inspired outfit. This article will guide you on how to style kitten heels for a retro look.
Why Kitten Heels Are Perfect for Retro Looks
Kitten heels are low-heeled shoes with a thin, elegant heel. The heel often has a slight curve, adding to their charm. They are much more comfortable than high heels. You can walk in them for hours without discomfort.
Kitten heels became iconic thanks to style icons like Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Kennedy. Hepburn wore them in films like Breakfast at Tiffany’s, cementing their place in retro fashion.
Kitten heels come in various styles, including pumps, sandals, mules, and slingbacks. They can be made of leather, suede, velvet, or patent leather. Some feature embellishments like bows, pearls, or rhinestones, which enhance their vintage appeal.
Kitten heels are ideal for retro outfits because they are feminine and polished. They add elegance without being overpowering. Retro fashion draws from the 1950s and 1960s, focusing on classic silhouettes like cinched waists, flared skirts, and tailored pieces.
Kitten heels complement these styles perfectly. They strike a balance between comfort and sophistication. You can wear them for long periods while looking put-together. They are also versatile, suitable for casual outings, work, or formal events. Whether you’re channeling a 1950s housewife or a 1960s mod vibe, kitten heels fit the aesthetic.
Building a Retro Outfit with Kitten Heels
To create a retro-inspired look, focus on clothing that reflects the 1950s or 1960s. Here are some key wardrobe pieces and how to pair them with kitten heels.
A-Line Skirts
A-line skirts are a cornerstone of retro fashion. They are fitted at the waist and flare out toward the hem, creating a flattering hourglass shape. A midi A-line skirt, which falls below the knee, is especially vintage. Pair it with kitten heels for a polished look.
Choose skirts in solid colors like navy, red, or black for versatility. For a bolder retro vibe, opt for patterns like polka dots, gingham, floral prints, or houndstooth. Tuck in a fitted blouse or sweater to emphasize the waist. Kitten heels in pastel shades, such as mint green or blush pink, add a soft, feminine touch. For a monochromatic look, match your heels to your skirt color.
Swing Dresses
Swing dresses are another retro favorite. They feature a fitted bodice and a flared skirt, creating a fun, twirly silhouette. This style was popular in the 1950s and is perfect for kitten heels. Choose a swing dress with a bold print, like cherries, stripes, or large florals. Black or nude kitten heels work well with busy patterns, keeping the focus on the dress.
For a striking look, match your heels to a color in the dress. For example, pair red kitten heels with a red floral dress. Add a thin belt to cinch the waist, enhancing the retro shape. Pointed-toe kitten heels elongate the legs, making them ideal for shorter dresses.
Cropped Trousers
Cropped trousers are great for a 1960s-inspired look. They end above the ankle, showing off your kitten heels. Choose tailored trousers in neutral colors like black, beige, or white. Pair them with a tucked-in blouse in silk or chiffon for elegance.
Pointed-toe kitten heels in a bold color, like mustard yellow or emerald green, add a pop of retro flair. For a true 1960s vibe, tie a headscarf around your hair or neck. A structured blazer can elevate this outfit for work or semi-formal events.
Pencil Skirts and Twin Sets
Pencil skirts are sleek and sophisticated. They hug the hips and taper at the knee, creating a timeless silhouette. Pair a pencil skirt with a twin set—a matching cardigan and top—for a 1950s-inspired look. Neutral kitten heels complement this outfit.
Choose heels with delicate details, such as a bow or pearl embellishment, to enhance the feminine vibe. A pencil skirt in a bold color, like red or teal, adds a modern twist to the retro aesthetic. Keep the blouse tucked in to maintain a polished appearance.
Shift Dresses
Shift dresses are straight, loose-fitting dresses that were huge in the 1960s. They have a boxy shape and often feature bold patterns or bright colors. Pair a shift dress with kitten heels for a mod-inspired look. Metallic kitten heels, like silver or gold, add a touch of glamour. Alternatively, try bright heels in pink or orange to match the dress’s vibrant energy. Keep accessories minimal to let the dress and heels shine.
Choosing the Perfect Kitten Heels
The right pair of kitten heels can make or break your retro look. Here’s how to choose the best ones.
Neutral kitten heels are the most versatile. Black, nude, white, or beige pairs go with almost any outfit. They’re great for those new to styling kitten heels. For a bold retro look, experiment with bright colors like red, pink, or cobalt blue.
Pastel kitten heels, such as lavender or baby blue, evoke a soft, 1950s vibe. Metallic heels in gold or silver are perfect for evening or party looks. If your outfit is neutral, colorful heels can act as a statement piece.
The material of your kitten heels affects the overall vibe. Leather heels are classic and polished, ideal for work or formal settings. Suede heels feel softer and more casual, perfect for daytime looks. Velvet kitten heels are luxurious and great for evening events.
Patent leather heels have a shiny finish, adding a playful, retro edge. Choose a material that matches the occasion and your outfit’s texture.
Kitten heels come in various styles. Pumps are the most classic, with a closed toe and back. Slingbacks have a strap around the heel, a popular 1950s design.
Mules are backless, offering a modern twist on retro. Sandals are great for summer retro looks. Look for heels with vintage details like bows, pearls, rhinestones, or cutouts. Pointed-toe heels look sleek and elongate the legs. Round-toe heels feel more traditionally vintage.
Accessorizing Your Retro Outfit
Accessories are key to nailing a retro look. They add personality and tie the outfit together. Here are some suggestions.
Structured handbags are a retro must. Boxy bags, top-handle bags, or small clutches were popular in the 1950s and 1960s. Match your bag to your kitten heels for a cohesive look. For example, pair nude heels with a nude clutch. If your outfit has bold patterns, choose a neutral bag in black, white, or cream. A small crossbody bag works for casual retro looks.
Retro jewelry is delicate and elegant. Pearl earrings or a pearl necklace are quintessential 1950s accessories. A thin gold chain, charm bracelet, or small hoop earrings also work. Avoid chunky or overly modern jewelry, as it can clash with the vintage aesthetic. For a 1960s mod look, try geometric earrings or a bold cocktail ring.
Scarves are a versatile retro accessory. Tie a silk scarf around your neck for a 1950s-inspired touch. Alternatively, fold a scarf into a triangle and tie it around your head for a 1960s vibe. Choose scarves with fun prints like polka dots, paisley, or florals. Match the scarf’s colors to your outfit or heels for harmony.
Cat-eye sunglasses are iconic for retro looks. They were a staple in the 1950s and 1960s. Choose a pair with bold frames in black, tortoiseshell, or white. Round sunglasses also work for a 1960s mod vibe. Wear them with kitten heels and a swing dress for a glamorous, vintage look.
Short gloves were popular in the 1950s. Wear white or pastel gloves with a swing dress or pencil skirt. They add a touch of elegance to your retro outfit. Choose gloves in a color that complements your heels or handbag.
Makeup and Hair for a Retro Look
Retro style extends beyond clothing. Your makeup and hair should match the vintage vibe.
For a 1950s look, focus on a flawless complexion. Use a light foundation and a touch of blush. Winged eyeliner and red or pink lipstick are classic. For a 1960s look, go bold with dramatic eyeliner and false lashes. Pale lipstick or glossy nude lips were also popular. Keep brows defined but natural.
Retro hairstyles are polished and structured. For the 1950s, try soft curls, a low bun, or a bouffant. Use a headband or scarf to accentuate the look. For the 1960s, go for a high ponytail, a sleek bob, or a beehive. Tease your hair for volume and use hairspray to hold the style.
Styling Kitten Heels for Different Occasions
Kitten heels are versatile and work for many settings. Here’s how to style them for various occasions.
For the office, keep your look professional yet retro. Pair black or nude kitten heels with a pencil skirt and a tucked-in blouse. Add a blazer for polish. Stick to neutral colors like navy, gray, or black. A structured handbag and minimal jewelry complete the outfit. Avoid overly bold patterns or bright heels for a workplace setting.
For casual settings like brunch or shopping, have fun with your look. Pair cropped trousers with bright kitten heels in pink or yellow. Add a tucked-in blouse and a headscarf for a 1960s vibe. Alternatively, wear a swing dress with pastel heels. Carry a small crossbody bag for practicality. Bold prints and playful accessories work well here.
For parties or date nights, go glamorous. Wear a swing dress with metallic kitten heels in gold or silver. Pair with a matching clutch and pearl earrings. A bold red lip adds drama. For a pants look, try cropped trousers with velvet kitten heels and a silk blouse. Keep accessories sparkly but minimal to avoid overwhelming the outfit.
Kitten heels are perfect for weddings or formal events. They’re comfortable for long hours. Pair a midi dress with nude or pastel kitten heels. Choose heels with rhinestone or bow details for elegance. Add a pearl necklace and a small clutch. For summer weddings, try mint or lavender heels. For winter events, stick to black or metallic heels.
Tips for Perfecting Your Retro Look
Here are some additional tips to ensure your kitten heel outfit shines.
Kitten heels are low, so balance your outfit’s proportions. Avoid long, shapeless dresses or maxi skirts, as they can make you look shorter. Opt for midi skirts, pencil skirts, or cropped trousers. These show off the heels and elongate the legs. Fitted or flared silhouettes work best.
Kitten heels are comfortable, but new shoes can cause blisters. Wear them around the house before a big event. If they slip, add heel grips or cushioned insoles. This ensures you can wear them all day.
Retro fashion loves prints, so don’t shy away from them. Pair polka dot heels with a floral dress or gingham trousers with striped heels. Just ensure the colors complement each other. Stick to a cohesive palette, like reds and whites or blues and yellows, to avoid clashing.
Retro looks rely on tailored clothing. Ensure your skirts, dresses, and trousers fit well. Avoid baggy or overly tight pieces. A cinched waist is key to the vintage silhouette. If needed, visit a tailor for adjustments.
Retro outfits are bold and eye-catching. Wear them with confidence. Stand tall, smile, and own your look. A confident attitude makes any outfit look better.
Kitten heels are the perfect shoe for a retro-inspired look. With the right outfit and confidence, you’ll create a timeless, nostalgic style that turns heads.
