published on Stories on Zalando
Host Camille Charrière sits down with Dazed Fashion Director Emma Davidson to decode the enduring appeal of the kitten heel. From luxe slingbacks to modern mules, they break down what makes the silhouette a staple and how to find the best style.
Kitten heels have officially reclaimed the throne. From Chloé’s cream-toned slingbacks to the decadent, beaded silhouettes seen at Tory Burch, the SS26 runways confirmed that the micro-heel is this season’s mandatory staple. But while the industry is currently buzzing, the kitten heel has always been an icon, spanning the gap between Audrey Hepburn’s mid-century minimalism and the office-siren energy of the late ’90s.
But it’s one thing to see them on the runway and another to actually live in them. To find the pair that won’t betray you by midday, we consulted the ultimate authority: Emma Davidson. As the Fashion Director of Dazed, Emma lives the look “pretty much 24/7, 365 days a year,” effortlessly pairing her kitten heels with everything from baggy jeans to tailoring. Read on as she helps us navigate the season’s top silhouettes and shop our hand-picked edit below.
On classic kitten heels
What kind of vibe does the classic kitten heel represent to you?
The classic pump is such an icon of the ’90s. I love them with a dark denim turn-up jean or, more recently, a little white pair with sheer black tights. There’s something so cool about the contrast.
When getting dressed, what comes first: the outfit or the shoes?
It depends on the day. Usually, when getting dressed, it’s all about one statement piece, whether that’s a dress, or a top or a fab pair of shoes. But since I buy a lot of shoes, more often than not, they’re the star of the show.
Are there any specific styling watchouts with classic kitten heels?
It’s best to keep the look quite modern as they can veer into classic “ladylike” territory. I like them with slick, clean tailoring, like an oversized blazer, maybe layered over an old band tee to pare back the elegance and make them a bit more interesting.
What about socks?
I’m SO pro-sock! Ease in with a black kitten heel and sheer black knee-highs, which are so good with a cute little dress or mini skirt. A pair of glittery socks peeping out from the bottom of a pair of jeans is so good. Or go really hard and tuck a pair of trackpants into a white sports sock, finishing with a statement heel to really up the contrast. Socks are such a good styling tool, and they don’t break the bank when you want to try something new.
On slingback kitten heels
For someone new to kitten heels, which style serves as the easiest entry point?
A slingback is the most versatile because it can take you from chic and elegant right through to cool, casual moments. But if you’re stepping into heels for the first time – even tiny ones – I’d say it’s best to slip on a court style as you get used to your extra inch. Support those ankles, diva.
And which kitten heel is versatile enough to carry you from desk to a girl’s night
out?
The slingback! She’s the ultimate day-to-night diva.
What’s your favourite way to style a pair of slingback kitten heels?
If the kitten heel is the queen of shoes – and IMO it absolutely is, whatever the naysayers might say – then the slingback kitten heel is the empress, and my ultimate favourite. I love them with a little black dress to party, a slouchy, slightly cropped jean and a slogan tee by day, or slung on with a hoodie, a pair of jogging bottoms and a sporty sock for a lazy Sunday walk.
Any iconic slingback wearers who are always on your moodboard?
Chloë Sevigny, but when is she not? She turned me on to teaming adidas running shorts with a pair of slingback kitten heels and I’ve never looked back.
On slip-on kitten heels
How do you ensure slip-ons don’t turn into “sitting shoes”?
You have to take it slow with these ones. Don’t slip them on when you know you have a lot of walking to do to begin with. I also find a bit of masking tape on the inner sole will keep your toes secure as they mould to your foot. With a little time, you’ll master them.
What’s a common mistake first-time wearers make when heading out in a pair?
Getting in their head that this is a hard shoe to walk in! You do have to take it slow and steady. Maybe wear them around the house with your pyjamas before you let them loose outside, but once broken in, they’re one of the most comfortable shoes on the line-up.
Which wardrobe staple gets the biggest style upgrade when paired with slip-on kitten heels?
It’s got to be a t-shirt and sporty shorts. Did you see Zoë Kravitz step out in a pair of runners and a peep-toe heel last summer? Forever on my moodboard from then on out.
Finally, what kitten heel pairings do you want to see more of in 2026?
Definitely more kitten heels with sportswear. Think Martine Rose or Willy Chavarria: big track jackets and football tees matched with heels. There’s something so appetising about the combination; it shouldn’t work, but it really does.