I’m the first person to admit I’ve destroyed my feet for years wearing 6-inch platform heels. Whether walking along Austin’s 6th Street, dancing the night away at a club in Las Vegas or attending a sold out concert at a venue with no seating, I’ve done it all. Only recently, however, have I recognized the damage these beautiful-to-behold footwear has caused to the bones in my feet. And I know I’m not alone.
Lots of people wear heels day in and day out for extended periods of time, messing up their anatomic kinetic chain. It’s like a ballerina walking everywhere in releve (heels lifted up). Wearing low heels, around 1 to 2 inches high, certainly aren’t the first choices for those of us who have a love affair with stilettos, but they are the better option for our feet.
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Low heels and flats have come a long way over the years, and dare I say, they’re actually sexier than ever before. From pointy toe flats to small block heels, the options run deep. And don’t get me started on clogs because these puppies are another formidable low heel alternative that can be styled multiple ways — my favorite being to wear the open-toe model with slouchy socks.
For those who want to give your feet a break while not sacrificing style, these are some low heel picks for summer:
Best Low Heel Summer Shoes
Braided Mid Heeled Sandals
The RAID Jaelyn braided mid-heels sandals capture this year’s trend. The chunky braid is everywhere, and this faux leather block heel sandal is an affordable option to add it into your wardrobe. The pop of color is just an added bonus.
Heel: 2 inches
Price: $48 at ASOS
UO Vista Jelly Mule Sandal
Totally inspired by the jellies of the ‘90s, these cte PVC rubber block heel slides are perfect for hanging out pool or beachside. Customers say they’re really comfy. It’s available in dark orange, sky blue, black and pink.
Heel: 2.2 inches
Price: $39 at Urban Outfitters
The Golden Pointed Toe Pump
Who knew Katy Perry had her own shoe line? I didn’t, but I’m happy I stumbled across this pair. With a flared heel and a pointy toe, the Golden Pointed Toe Pump combines a trendy style into an essential silhouette. It comes in seven different prints and solid colors.
Heel: 2 inches
Price: $99 at Nordstrom
Steve Madden Melinda
Steve Madden’s Melinda sandal features a puffy crisscross braid across the toes and vegan leather upper. The block heel offers a little extra height without overcomplicating the classic silhouette. It’s available in green, black, white and natural.
Heel: 1.5 inches
Price: $79.95 at Steve Madden
Low Heel Ankle Strap Pump
A pointy toe option with a low chunky heel and an adjustable ankle strap. This shoe has over 2,500 reviews and 4.4 stars on Amazon. It comes in 20 color and print options, along with faux leather and suede constructions.
Heel: 2 inches
Price: $50.98 and up on Amazon (price varies by color and size)
Best Flat Summer Shoes
Lullie Satin Rhinestone Pointed Toe Flats
These adorable pointy-toe flats can be dressed up or down, whether it’s a T-shirt and cutoff denim shorts or a simple black mini dress — you can’t go wrong. It’s covered with a satin fabric with rhinestones trim, an oversized rhinestone bow and an adjustable rhinestone ankle wrap strap. Lulus has it in baby blue, ivory and pink.
Price: $38 at Lulus
Sam Edelman Felicia Ballet Flat
This style flats is easily found in fashionistas’ closets spanning several decades. Available in a slew of pretty colors and prints, Sam Edelman’s version a classic ballet flat with flexible elastic that adjusts to you for a perfect fit. The Felicia’s little bow has a dangling SE charm. I have a pair and they feel like you’re wearing nothing on your feet.
Price: $84.95 (reg. $120) at Sam Edelman
Steve Madden Kiki Mule
If you’re looking for a shoe to wear when your pedi isn’t what it should be, then the Kiki mule should be your new go-to. With a gigantic chain link strap across the top as an addition to an otherwise plain style, this mule by Steve Madden is a favorite of cool girls everywhere. It also comes in black.
Price: $69.95 at Steve Madden
ASOS Lake Bow Pointed Ballet Flats
This cute slip-on has summer written all over it. Complete with an oversized bow, pointy toe and a natural raffia construction, you’ll want to wear this flat throughout the summer and beyond.
Price: $30 at ASOS
DREAM PAIRS Elastic Ankle Strap Ballet Flats
With almost 7,000 reviews, this little ballet flat is an affordable option for incorporating the trend into your own personal style. It has a premium latex cushioned foot bed, a zipper at the heel and a crisscross elastic strap in the front. It’s available in 12 colors. Note: This style runs small.
Price: $16.99 and up on Amazon
Best Wooden Clogs
‘Anja’ Clog Sandal
Made in Sweden, this cute pair of clogs by Mia are a minimalist sandal featuring adjustable leather straps and a low wooden heel for a trendy warm-weather style. It’s available in mustard or natural leather colors.
Heel: 2 inches
Price: $119 at Nordstrom
Genuine Leather Wooden Clogs
This 100% genuine leather clog is a great deal compared to similar, more expensive brands. It’s handmade in a classic Swedish silhouette with a wooden heel that seemingly never goes out of style. You have eight colors to choose from.
Heel: 2 inches
Price: $56.99 and up on Amazon
UGG Judi Clog
UGG not only makes great boots, they also make great clogs. The Judi is a slip-on with nailheads on the outer edges, lamb leather UGGplush lining in a traditional wooden clog style. It’s available in Chestnut Suede and Black Leather.
Heel: 2.75 inches
Price: $139.95 on Amazon
Chase and Chloe Woody Stud & Scallop Clog
This clog comes with a great price tag. It has a faux suede synthetic upper with polished studs along the trim and a woodgrain blocked heel.
Heel: 2.5 inches
Price: $29.97 (reg. $68) at Nordstrom Rack
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