The Best Heel Choices For Older Women

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As we age, many of us shift from wearing shoes that are trendy to wearing shoes that are  comfortable, practical, and easy to style — but that doesn't mean we have to ditch heels completely. "The ultimate goal when wearing heels is to have both comfort and confidence," Cynthia Kennedy, personal stylist, image consultant, and creator of Your Style Transformation Academy, exclusively explains to Women.com. And we've got good news, because it's possible to have both, we just need to make a few adjustments to our shopping habits.

In addition to looking for shoes that are well-padded, have good arch support, and are made of quality material (so they won't cause blisters or prod your feet), heel height and style is one of the most important things to consider. Kennedy recommends leaving unstable stilettos in our younger years and instead embracing shorter, chunkier heels that provide style, comfort, and stability at the same time. "Generally, a height of 2.5 inches or lower will put less strain on your feet and back," she shared (everyone is different though, so it's important to work out your own tolerance level). "A modest height is key for all-day or all-night wear," she adds.

But just because your heel is on the shorter side, it still doesn't necessarily mean it'll work for you if it's the wrong shape. But we're here to help. We've broken down the best heel choices for older women that will not only be easy to walk in, but will have you looking chic and proud of your age (as you should be!).

The chunky spool heel is wider at the bottom than the top, so most people find them sturdier and more comfortable than a classic stiletto. It has a similar skinny look as the classic heel type though, making it a solid alternative for those who want that aesthetic or to make a dressy statement. Keeping your spool heel height low is wise if you're looking for comfort and style, so try NUMALEO's Pointed Toe Slip On Pump or the Pointed Peep Toe Heeled Mules from Coutgo.

Low, block heels should be the ultimate go-to for anyone who wants some height in a shoe they can easily wear all day. "The base is chunky and solid but still gives height and stability while distributing weight evenly, which makes them easy to walk in on different surfaces," Cynthia Kennedy tells us, exclusively. Low blocks are super versatile and stylish, and can be easily found on everything from sandals (like Ankis' Strappy Low Chunky Block Heeled Sandals) to boots (such as QIY Ankle Boots With Side Zipper).

Wedges have one long sole that runs across the bottom of the shoe, so your heel won't get stuck on soft ground. Many also find them comfortable because of how evenly they distribute weight. "[Wedges] give you that height and stability without getting the awful pain of a stiletto," Cynthia Kennedy exclusively says, so that means you can go a little higher while wearing one of the best shoe styles for wide-legged pants. "A cork or an espadrille wedge feels casual yet still looks put together, while a sleeker version in leather can work for dressier outfits," she adds.

Another of the most comfortable and practical heel choices? Kitten heels, which made a huge comeback in 2025. "They're no longer considered, 'old lady' heels thanks to the cyclical world of fashion," Cynthia Kennedy exclusively confirms of the short heel type, which typically falls between 2 and 2.5 inches. "The lower height still offers a feminine look and adds polish while still being incredibly wearable," she adds. Give Mysoft's Two Inch Kitten Heel Pumps or the Mattiventon Slingback Heels a go for a comfortable choice that's sure to keep coming back.

Like the look and practicality of kitten heels but want something slightly thicker and shorter? The micro heel's for you. Micro heels gave kittens heels a run for their money as one of the hottest shoe trends of fall 2025, as they're slightly thicker without expanding into low block territory. They're usually between 1 and 2 inches and are available in a wide array of shoe styles (everything from courts to sandals), so they can work with a vast array of garments — including pants, skirt and dresses — for an elevated but understated aesthetic.

Low platform heels are another way to go as we age, because an elevated sole can take a lot of pressure of the balls of the feet. "A subtle platform under the toe area can offset the heel height and reduces pressure on the ball of your foot," Cynthia Kennedy exclusively tells us. They can also give you extra height (ideal for short queens!) and are the perfect partner for pants, because they can stop the hem dragging on the ground. Try Dream Pairs' Chunky Platform High Heels or Cushionaire Delano Mary Jane Platform Heels with Memory Foam.