How to style kitten heels ... via DNAMAG

The kitten heel trend has been floating around for awhile and it's one that has a real polarizing effect. You either love them or hate them. I'm all for them, personally. They can make a big statement without sacrificing comfort or practicality. That being said, I do understand where the opposition is coming from. Kitten heels have a bad reputation for looking dowdy. The truth is, they really can give off serious grandma vibes if they're not styled well. It's not a slip-in-and-go style, but a couple simple styling tips can make nailing the kitten heel trend as easy as 1, 2, 3....

1. Style them down

Because the kitten heel is so often associated with all things prim and proper, pairing it with casual pieces makes for a great study in contrasts. They elevate the look without going full-on Queen Elizabeth. Kitten heels with a sweater and jeans is a totally comfy, wearable outfit.

2. Play with proportions

Proportions are so important when it comes to styling kitten heels. It makes a huge difference when being paired up with trousers. A good rule of thumb is to stick with pants cropped above the ankle. If they're too long and start covering up the shoe, it starts to look frumpy instead of chic. Otherwise, the kitten heel rewards mixing things up. This includes everything from uneven hemlines, oversize coats, and statement sleeves.

3. Leave subtlety behind

The simplicity and elegance of the traditional kitten heel is ripe for experimentation. Designers like J.W. Anderson and Dior have taken the kitten heel and recharged it for the modern sartorial landscape. Reach for bright colors, architectural shapes, and high-impact embellishments.