Best Sexy High Heels Reviewed & Rated
The list below looks at the highest-rated sexy high heels currently available for purchase. These include strappy sandals, lace models, chunky platforms and even some unique designs that will draw attention to your feet. You are sure to find something you like and can rest assured that all the items listed offer great value for money and even a high level of versatility so you can wear them anywhere.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Heel
Heels come in many different styles ranging from short and stout to long and thin. The type of back that will work best for you depends on a number of factors, including your experience and comfort level with wearing and walking in a raised shoe. If you find yourself wondering what the different types of heels are, then continue reading below for a more detailed description of the most popular variations.
Stiletto
Stilettos are usually higher than two-inches and have a trademark thin shape. Stilettos are considered to be one of the sexiest styles, in part, because of their dainty structure and towering height, they’re particularly well-known for lengthening the appearance of a woman’s legs.
Pump
Pumps are generally a closed or peep-toe design and have a low height of one-inch or less. They start thicker at the base and the narrow near the tip, though they’re never as thin as a stiletto.
Kitten
Kitten heels are short and thin with a height that ranges from 1.5 to 1.75-inches. The distinctive feature of the kitten is the slight curve that sets the back away from the edge of the shoe.
Wedge
A wedge is distinctive in its solid structure with no space separating it from the rest of the sole. Wedges are sought after because they’re easy to walk in despite their height.
Chunky
Chunky styles have a thicker structure that’s often preferred by women for its wearability because this type of style offers a thicker foundation; it’s much easier to walk in and requires less balance.
Cone
Cone designs start wide where they meet the shoe and narrow more and more as they reach the ground. Cones come in higher heights much like the stiletto, though they are not narrow from top to bottom.
A higher score on the "heel" metric tends to mean that the heel of the shoe in question is high, yet sturdy; attractive, yet functional; and finally, durable.
The height of a shoe affects the way you’re able to walk while wearing them, as well as your overall comfort. If a pair has a height of over four-inches, they become very difficult to stride normally in, though some women find it easy to walk while wearing sexy high heels. If you have difficulty, try wearing a style that’s less than two inches in height, or opt for a wedge style because a chunky design provides more stability. The height can range anywhere from ¼-inch to over six-inches and may or may not be accompanied by a raised platform.
Style
Apart from the various types of backs, there are also different shoe structures to consider while you're shopping for a new pair of footwear. Factors like the type of straps, the style of the shoe itself, and the overall coverage it provides are all areas that define the structure of a pair of heels as we've explained below.
Platform
A platform has a raised lift at the front part of the shoe rather than just at the back. While this type of shoe can be especially difficult to walk in because of the additional efforts are taken to properly balance on the raised platform, but are considered to be very alluring.
Slingback
A slingback is a design that has a strap which extends behind the ankle but does not wrap all the way around like a normal ankle strap.
Sandal
Sandals with height have an open upper that is similar to that of a traditional sandal. These types are popular during warmer months because they allow for increased airflow and ventilation.
Peep Toe
Peep toes have a full-covered upper unit despite the front toe piece which is an open concept. This style is perfect for showing off that gorgeous new pedicure you just had done.
Boots
Boots come in variations of height. They also have a full-coverage upper unit that extends beyond the ankle line and can reach above the knee.
A higher score for this criterion means you are more easily able to walk correctly and securely in the pair of sexy high heels in question.
Features
Closures
Some shoes have no closures at all while others have one of several different styles. Buckles, zippers, and laces, are the most common types of closures seem and can even add to the overall allure of the shoe. If your chosen pair are slip-on and don’t have any closure system make sure that they have some form of a feature that will help to keep them firmly in place to prevent them from flopping or sliding off your feet.
Footbed
The footbed, or insole, of a shoe, is important for keeping your feet comfortable and preventing foot fatigue. It’s also a vital part of how well your arch is supported. If the pair you love doesn’t come with a proper insole, there are variations sold separately that are designed specifically for use with women's footwear.
Odor/Moisture Control
Controlling moisture is paramount to preventing odorsfrom occurring and is imperative to having dry, comfortable feet. The best way to control moisture is by purchasing a pair of shoes which were designed with a moisture-wicking footbed. Wicking is the process of pulling moisture away from the skin and forcing it towards the outer material instead of trapping it inside the shoe. When too much moisture and sweat build-up it becomes the perfect breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria which is why prevention is key. The best materials for preventing sweaty feet are leather, mesh, and canvas because they allow for good airflow as well as pull sweat away from the skin.
Slip-resistance
Let’s face it, pumps are slippery and can be downright dangerous to walk in. This is precisely why purchasing a pair with a rubber outsole, or at the very least a rubber tip is a great idea. Rubber provides the best anti-slip properties of any outsole material and even offers solid traction on wet surfaces making it the safest bet for stilettos that are difficult enough to walk in already.
Sound
This style of shoe can be noisy! The endless click...click...sound can quickly become tiresome for both yourself and other people around you which is why it’s a good idea to invest in a pair that is less noisy. A rubber tip is perfect and completely eliminates sound altogether, but there are other options which greatly reduce the clicking sound too. The sexy high heels on this list were chosen in part for their lessened noise factor.
Fit
Finding a perfectly-fitting pair of shoes can be like finding the holy grail; there are so many brands, styles, models and makes of shoes that it seems like it’s next to impossible, especially when you are shopping online! Fear not, as we’ve ranked each product on our list for their fit and trueness-to-size to help guide you in finding the perfect match for you.
To come up with a score for the fit of a pair of sexy high heels, we considered several factors, like the ones mentioned above, in addition to real customer reviews, to help boil down everything into one simple score. For example, Prada tends to make heels that are true-to-size, meaning that you can buy a pair of 6s one year, and another pair of 6s next year in a different model and they will usually still fit (unless your feet have grown or shrunk). A brand like Prada will most likely have a high score when it comes to fit, but the other variables in play, such as make, model, and purpose, will also affect the overall score.
However, a higher score for the “fit” criterion will tend to mean that the shoe experiences a better trueness-to-size than a competing product; just don’t forget all the underlying factors that are baked into arriving at that single score! Finally, if you are looking for tips on how to identify your shoe size, check out this guide by the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society.
Comfort
Ladies (and gentlemen), we wish we could tell you that high heels were comfortable and you could wear them all day without complaint; but alas, they happen to be some of the most uncomfortable styles of shoes. Here are the key areas of a heeled shoe that will determine if your favorite pair on this list will score high on the "comfort" rating.
Heel
The heel of the shoe can come in many different shapes, materials, thickness, weight and height variations. The rule tends to be that higher, thinner and lighter heels are often more uncomfortable, due to their lack of support they provide the foot during movement.
Insole
The insole is the proverbial foundation of the entire shoe. The sock liner lays on top of the insole, which is then fused to the midsole, and finally the outsole. A firm insole will give good structure to a shoe and increase its stability and durability, but it will also increase the weight of the overall product and be less comfortable. A softer insole might be more comfortable, but that comes at the expense of stability and durability. We tried to balance these weights when evaluating our products, but each reader and wearer is different, so be aware of this trade-off.
Outsole
The outsole, or more simply, the sole of the shoe, makes direct contact with the ground and therefore supports the entire foot and body when in motion. Needless to say, a poorly-constructed outsole will lead to discomfort, slipping and a foot or other bodily injury. For this reason, many manufacturers use materials that are water-, weather-, heat-, and impact-resistant. Depending on the type of footwear, one will often see outsoles made from natural or synthetic materials, such as PVC, EVA, rubber and leather. Each of these has their advantages, depending on the shoe’s purpose; however, as a general rule, they each are resistant to the aforementioned factors. They are also flexible enough to support a proper foot cycle when in motion, but they are not so flexible that they feel like a pair of socks.
The final word on comfort is that the higher the score the product receives, the more comfortable it is; however, it might also mean the shoe experiences one of the trade-offs discussed earlier. Check out our other criteria before making your final decision!
10 Best Sexy High Heels
1. Sam Edelman Hazel
The Sam Edelman Hazel Pump is a towering pair of heels that boast a provocative upper and a sky-high heel. If you're in search of a pair of sultry foot apparel with some serious lift, then these are the answer to your prayers. Despite the Hazel stilettos' staggering height, they're surprisingly easy to move in, and you won't find that walking is particularly difficult.
These Sam Edelman heels feature a stiletto heel that brings some serious oomph to any outfit. Their pointed toe design paired with a colorful upper material makes for a seductive silhouette that's guaranteed to impress. The Hazel Stiletto is available in countless colors and patterns so you can match any outfit you pair it with.
The Hazel Stiletto from Sam Edelman is the perfect pair of high heels and can add that extra level of saucy to any performance. But these high heels aren't just for wearing while you're on the stage, they're perfect for any occasion that requires some added allure and always take center stage no matter the location.
2. Naturalizer Flora
This pair of strappy sandals by Naturalizer makes for an excellent choice for both everyday wear, as well as special events and nights on the town. Made by a company that focuses on comfortable footwear that looks good, you can expect the Flora to feel great on your feet, no matter how much dancing you’re doing. The intricate straps show you off in a way that is sure to complement a number of outfits, from short dresses to skinny jeans, and even some dressed-up outfits.
The upper of the Flora is made with leather and suede for the best possible wearing experience. These natural materials offer just the right amount of flexibility so that you get a fit that breaks in just right, while the heel hook and loop strap helps you find the right amount of support.
The footbed of the Flora is contoured for the right amount of support, while the platform allows for added space for cushioning. This will lessen the impact on the ball of the foot, while the chunky heel increases stability while walking. The outsole is non-slip for maximum protection, and it will work great on all surfaces, both indoors and outdoors. As for cost, the Naturalizer Flora makes for one of the most affordable options on this list, which means that it’s a suitable option for all budgets.
3. Kate Spade Ilessa
These black suede sandals by Kate Spade are the perfect choice for those who prefer to show a bit of skin. In true Kate Spade fashion, the Ilessa offers a great combination of sexy and feminine through the use of cutout sections that show flashes of skin. This model can also be purchased in nude suede, which gives a seamless look to the feet, elongating the leg and making you appear taller, slimmer and like you’re wearing no footwear at all.
The great thing about these sandals is that they’re made with high-quality materials. The toe strap and instep straps use suede, a softer form of leather that will break-in easily, without causing discomfort or blistering. The straps use patent leather, and the ankle strap has a metal buckle that allows you to adjust it for the best possible fit.
As for the footbed, it’s lightly padded to ensure some shock absorption while walking, protecting the ball of the foot. The 3.75-inch heel is tall for long-term wear but will work well for special occasions, parties, and events. As for price, these sandals rank higher than average compared to the other items listed, but if you’re after a beautifully crafted pair of footwear, the Ilessa is definitely worth checking out.
4. Schutz Cendi
What makes these pumps by Schutz such a popular choice is their unique design that combines a classic silhouette with the futuristic appearance of vinyl uppers. The Cendi comes in a number of color choices, from classic black and nude patent leather options to neon colorways, holographic versions, and even metallic variations. This means you’ll easily match these to your favorite outfits.
As already mentioned, the Schutz Cendi features a classic pump silhouette with a pointed toe, a nicely cut vamp that will compliment any foot shape, and a 4.25-inch stiletto heel that is perfect for nights out and special events. The material used is Cowhide leather which is extremely durable, easy to maintain and breathes well, while the lining and sole use leather as well, offering a comfortable wearing experience.
You should keep in mind that the leather sole of the Cendi has some advantages, but also some disadvantages. While it will provide you with a flexible and naturally cushioning surface to walk on, it will not be suitable for wear in wet conditions. As for cost association, this pair of high heels ranks average compared to the other items on this list, making it an overall great choice, especially because it’s highly versatile, and can look as sexy or as demure as required (depending on the outfit you pair it with).
5. Badgley Mischka Veronica
If your idea of sexy includes a little bit of lace, then the Badgley Mischka Veronica was made for you. This pair of classic pumps is the ideal choice for anyone who wants something that will draw attention to your feet, without actually going overboard. You can pair these with any outfit in your wardrobe, and you can even go with the ivory pair for a bridal look. Pair these with a gown for an elegant look, or wear them with your favorite short dress for a night at the club.
The upper of the Veronica pump is made with delicate lace and is available in black or ivory. There are sequins and beads embroidered, and not only do they give a slight shimmer to the look, but they also make it more luxurious in appearance. The heel is a staggering 4.25-inches tall for a sexy look, while the rest of the shoe uses the highest-quality materials to ensure a happy wearing experience.
The sole and footbed of the Badgley Mischka Veronica are made with genuine leather which ensures two things. For one, leather is breathable and soft to the touch, so you can wear these without hosiery and show off your legs. The second advantage is the material’s pliability and durable nature that means you’ll be wearing these for years to come. As for cost, the Badgley Mischka Veronica does sell at a price that’s higher than average, but on the whole, this brand’s footwear is an excellent investment, regardless of the occasion you’re shopping for.
6. Guilty Shoes Cutout Gladiator
The Cutout Gladiator from Guilty Shoes is a great example of classic yet sensual footwear that's as comfortable as it is sublime. These block-beauties come in nearly twenty style variations so you can rock a different pair for every day of the week. There are so many colors and styles to choose from you won't have any trouble matching them to your favorite outfit, and they're so comfortable you'll want to wear them all the time.
Guilty Shoes' Cutout Gladiator features a lightly cushioned footbed that provides just the right amount of padding without any excess bulk. A stylish ankle strap offers an added layer of protection and security while ensuring that your foot stays firmly in place, preventing unnecessary flopping or sliding. Their chunkier design allows for a more natural stride and eliminates the need for constant gripping of the toes that can lead to foot pain.
These Cutout Gladiators ooze sexuality and present an impressive design that's sure to turn more than a few heads as you walk past. Their 1.25-inch platform and 4.25-inch back make them an alluring pair of sandals that will fast become your favorite go-to footwear when you're in the mood to wear a pair of sexually charged sandals.
7. Sam Edelman Penelope
The Penelope from Sam Edelman is as alluring as it gets! These stunners are available in over multiple patterns and boast a towering 5-inches for some serious lift. The Penelope has a sexed-up silhouette and lustrious peep-toe design that lets you show off your sparkly new pedicure and is the perfect choice of footwear for formal events, dressy occasions, or just for a night out on the town.
The Penelope is crafted from lightweight and airy man-made materials that allow for adequate ventilation and prevent overheating. Sweaty feet can lead to a build-up of odor-causing bacteria and increase your chance of developing painful blisters, which is why airflow is so important in footwear. These Sam Edelman's have a TPR rubber outsole that prevents slips and keeps you stable even on slippery surfaces and a comfy faux-leather insole that's lightly padded to prevent foot fatigue.
This bold yet dainty foot apparel has a gorgeous silhouette and features a peep toe design that's fun and flirty. Their wraparound ankle strap and slender 5-inch back make for an alluring structure that commands attention and is perfect for formal, dressy, or special occasions.
8. Calvin Klein Gella
This pair of dress pumps is the ideal choice for those who want an eye-catching silhouette that doesn’t reveal too much skin. A modern reinvention of the D’Orsay pump, the Gella features a strap that connects the heel with the toe, drawing attention to the feet and feminine pointed-toe silhouette. Made by a reputable brand, it’s a good choice if you’re after quality at an affordable price.
The great thing about the Gella is that the upper comes in numerous versions, including leather and textile. You can opt for a classic nude patent, a brightly colored snake print, or even a camouflage pattern. The elastic gore on the inside of the foot ensures easy on and off, as well as wearing comfort, while the strap also ensures some support over the top of the foot, minimizing strain and fatigue.
The sole of the Gella is made with synthetic materials which means that these won’t be as sensitive as shoes made with a leather outsole. You won’t have to worry about walking on abrasive surfaces such as concrete, or about getting them wet. Gel pod inserts are placed in key areas for shock absorption and comfort, while the outsole includes a slip-resistant section in the forefoot that makes sure you’re stable on your feet, no matter what. As for price, these rank below average compared to the other models listed, making the Gella an excellent choice for any occasion.
9. Sam Edelman Yaro
The Sam Edelman Yaro is made from 100% leather and has a classicly sultry structure that's perfect for work or play. Its medium-low heel height allows for easy walking, and its cool design complements any kind of outfit.
These Sam Edelman Yaro feature a 4-inch height that's the perfect level for easier walking. Despite the moderate height, these are still as alluring as can be and offer an airy open-concept design that's perfect for warmer weather.
These are easier to walk in thanks to their lower height and flat platform design. A raised platform makes it difficult to balance properly which is why the best design for walking in is one with a flat raise. Their low height offsets the minimal raise by encouraging a more natural stride.
10. Pleaser Funtasma Juliet
The Juliet from Pleaser is an affordable pair that is perfect for themed occasions, after hours parties, or just for whenever a naughty mood hits. Their 3.75-inch back and 1.75-inch platform provide that extra lift you've been searching for. The Juliet is a dangerously alluring heel that will put some hit back into your collection.
The Juliet is a towering heel that has a design made to impress. These heels appear higher than they are thanks to their 1.75-inch platform that gives them the illusion of a higher heel. They feature a cute ankle strap and side buckle closure that keeps your feet securely in place for a safe walking experience. The Juliette has an open concept upper and cute over the toe strap that hides the base of the toes and lets your toenails peep out.
The Juliet was originally designed as a costume shoe which means these sexy heels can be worn to themed parties or just as a pair of sultry evening footwear. Dancers everywhere have fallen in love with the Juliet's easy-wearing foot feel and sturdiness despite the higher platform.