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Courtesy of Tory Burch

How Slingback Kitten Heels Elevate 9-to-5 Dressing

The office siren is evolving...

By Kayleigh Schweiker

There was a time when I idolized women who wore towering heels in the workplace, but these days, I’m embracing a new kind of office uniform, one grounded (literally) in style and comfort. Allow me to introduce the slingback kitten heel, your trusty sidekick for elevating workwear.

With its reasonable stature, the classic kitten heel offers just the right amount of height without compromising on practicality. Meanwhile, the slingback ankle strap offers stability and security. It’s a shoe that prioritizes your arches, stride, dignity—and yes, your plans after 5 p.m. Gone are the days of shoving a pair of stilettos into your work bag as you dash out the door in a pair of comfortable slides.

As more companies go back to the office full-time, workwear has returned to the spotlight—and the red carpet, à la Doechii’s Grammys look. Whether you’re searching for serious outfit inspiration, or hoping to channel your inner she-E-O within your everyday wardrobe, the 13 slingback kitten heels ahead are bound to help you step into your power this season.

Best Animal Print

Tony Bianco Crush Slingback Kitten Heel

Crush Slingback Kitten Heel

Worn by celebrities and style insiders alike, Tony Bianco shoes have earned their moment in the limelight. This bold cow-print pair delivers a dose of trendiness and is guaranteed to turn heads from cubicle to coffee run.

Sizes: 5-10

Colors: 10 options

Best Designer

Prada Patent Leather Slingback Pumps

Patent Leather Slingback Pumps

Lean into luxury with this patent leather pair from Prada. The signature triangular logo pops atop the shoe’s sleek design.

Sizes: 34-42.5

Colors: Ivory, Black

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Best Mary Jane

Gucci Leather Horsebit Pump

Leather Horsebit Pump

A springy take on the beloved Mary Jane, this preppy rounded toe pair is perfect for butter yellow’s current stardom.

Sizes: 6-10

Colors: Yellow, Black, Bright Pink, Dark Green, Rosso Ancora

Best Lace Detail

Neous Irena Crepe de Chine Slingbacks

Irena Crepe de Chine Slingbacks

For Dale Arden Chong, ELLE's senior fashion commerce editor, this brand has mastered head-turning staples. “Neous has a way of taking classic silhouettes and making them feel a little unexpected,” she says. “Case in point: the Irena Crepe de Chine slingbacks. That little peek of lace is just what I need for these to feel undoubtedly chic but with a understated allure.”

Sizes: 5-9

Colors: Black

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Best with Hardware

Tory Burch Pierced Slingback Heel

Pierced Slingback Heel

Considering some new bling? Try this dreamy pair, outfitted with hardware, which is one of the hottest runway trends for fall.

Sizes: 5-12

Colors: Coconut Shell, Perfect Black

Best Metallic

Cos Pointed Leather Slingback Kitten Heel

Pointed Leather Slingback Kitten Heel

Metallic accessories are a fabulous way to elevate your all-black ensembles, everyday office attire, or even a pair of jeans.

Sizes: 6-12

Colors: Silver, Black

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Best Embossed

Jacquemus Croc-Embossed Leather Slingback Pumps

Croc-Embossed Leather Slingback Pumps

Outfitted with the house’s signature geometric embellishments, this croc-embossed pair adds an artistic twist to any look.

Sizes: 6-11

Colors: Midnight Brown

Best Studded

Reformation Sadie Kitten Heeled Slingback

Sadie Kitten Heeled Slingback

Pretty in pickle? Bet you haven’t heard that one before. This green ombre number boasts flare in the form of delicate silver studs.

Sizes: 5-11

Colors: Pickle Satin

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Best Buckled

Givenchy Voyou Slingback Heels

Voyou Slingback Heels

Buckle up! Opt for this funky denim option for a bit of Y2K glamor.

Sizes: 35-42

Colors: Navy

Best Under $100

Steve Madden Liana

Liana

There’s so much to love about this cherry-colored select from Steve Madden—including the price tag. Reviewers rave about this strappy shoe’s comfort and ankle support.

Sizes: 5-12

Colors: Wine, Black, Mocha

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Best Mesh

Mango Slingback Pointed Toe Kitten Heel Pump

Slingback Pointed Toe Kitten Heel Pump

A little breathability goes a long way, especially when the forecast reads eighty-plus degrees. Enter mesh heels: the chic solution to staying cool. This blush pair is embellished with tonal beads for extra detail.

Sizes: 5-9

Colors: Blush

Best Sandal

Larroudé Mini Annie Sandal

Mini Annie Sandal

Whether you're traipsing through the Caribbean, dining al fresco, or just grabbing coffee before a morning meeting, this airy sandal adds a touch of summer magic to every step.

Sizes: 5-11

Colors: White, Ivory, Gold Metallic, Black

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Best Elasticated

Toteme The Sharp Slingback Pumps

The Sharp Slingback Pumps

This moss-hued style from Toteme offers an essential pop of color with an elasticated slingback strap for added comfort.

Sizes: 5-8

Colors: Laurel

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