Last month, I attended a wedding in Colorado and spend monthsssssss looking for a black tie wedding guest dress. I was first drawn to the Anthropologie 3-D Floral Dress, which was stunning, but ultimately settled on the Naomi Split Maxi Dress which was, let’s say, a little more tastefully bold than my original choice.

What both dresses made me realize was that I didn’t have a pair of classic black high heels! While I routinely saw the outfits my “corporate” twin sister wore, which she always paired with a leather black pump, I never thought incorporating this signature shoe in my wardrobe was needed. Though after pairing my wedding outfit with Sam Edelman’s Hazel Pointed Pump, this wardrobe essential has elevated my outfits and added a new level of sophistication and style I drastically underestimated before!

The Benefits of a Timeless Black Heel

Versatility

Obviously, a black heel is incredibly versatile. Whether you are wearing a dress, skirt, or jeans, a black pump is always a stunning choice and pairs with any outfit .

One of my favorite looks right now is a black pointed-toe heel paired with baggy jeans, a crop top, and an oversized blazer which creates a polished and refined outfit that’s perfect for a day look or a night out with friends. And of course, if you are a corporate baddie then having a black stiletto is a wardrobe must.

Timeless

A black heel is timeless - it never goes out of style! It is a shoe that can be worn year round and it will always look chic and sophisticated.

And a fun fact, in early 17th-century Europe, high heels were a sign of masculinity and high social status. It wasn't until the end of the century that this trend spread to women's fashion. So, boys and girls (and non-gender conforming folks), the black heel is a universal statement piece that will never go out of style.

Flattering

““The shoe elongates the leg and does it discreetly. The goal is to get people to look at a woman’s legs. It’s all about the leg. No, it’s not about the leg. It’s about the woman.” ”

— Christian Louboutin

Need I say more? A classic black high heel elongates the leg and adds height, but more importantly, enhances confidence. Wearing a stunning black heel helps me embrace my femininity, which is so empowering for me.

How to Find the Perfect Black High Heel

When searching for your perfect pair of black high heels, there are a few things you want to keep in mind:

Comfort: Ensure that the shoes are comfortable and fit well. Look for features such as padded insoles and cushioned soles.
Heel Height: Choose a heel height that you can comfortably walk in, especially if you plan on wearing the shoes for a long time. Practicality is the main goal. If you know you will be standing and walking for long durations, choose a heel around 2-3” in height. Alternatively, if you are attending an event where you will be sitting for a majority of the time, a heel between 3-5” tall can be suitable.
Style: Look for a design that compliments your wardrobe and personal style. There are many styles of high heels to choose from, including stilettos, pumps, wedges, and more.
Material: The material of the shoe can affect its look, feel, and durability. Leather and suede are my go-to’s, but there are also synthetic materials you can choose from. In my opinion, leather and suede are more comfortable than synthetic materials because they have the ability to stretch whereas synthetic is less pliable.
Quality: Consider the quality of the shoes, including the stitching, materials, and construction. High-quality shoes are typically more durable and comfortable.
Occasion: Consider the occasion for which you are purchasing the shoes. If you need them for a formal event, for example, you may want to choose a more elegant and sophisticated design. If you are attending an event that requires a more casual attire, opt for the simple, black, leather, pointed-toe pump.
Price: Set a budget for your purchase. High-quality shoes can be an investment that lasts for years, so it may be worth spending a bit more for a pair of shoes that you love and that will last. Alternatively, there are many affordable high heel options as well. My recommendation? Take your time looking and consider spending a little more money for a higher quality shoe that will last or else you may find yourself at the shoe cobbler getting your heels repaired (wow, that sounds so 17th century of me to say).

PRO TIPS: You can purchase ankle grips , heel pads, and inserts that make your shoes so much more comfortable so you don’t get blisters and squished toes. Additionally, I recommend purchasing a good leather shoe polish if you opt for leather pumps which will protect your shoes from wear and tear as well as repel dirt and dust.

Sam Edelman’s Hazel Pointed Pump

I knew going into the wedding that I needed to prioritize comfort while I was searching for the perfect black heel. Through the ceremony, reception, and mingling with family and friends, it was evident that I would be on my feet for at least six hours. With this in mind, I purchased the Sam Edelman Hazel Pointed Pump and I have to say, I am absolutely in love with this pair of heels.

These shoes have a heel height of 3.75” and a padded sock which gives added comfort without sacrificing style. I comfortably wore these shoes for six hours. I will say, I am used to wearing high heels so the heel height was easy for me to walk in, however, if you are purchasing your first pair of heels, I suggest opting for a heel between 1.5-3” high.

The quality of the leather is exceptional - the material is sturdy, yet soft, comfortable, and form fitting. The pointed-toe is not too narrow and the shoe itself does not dig into the sides of my feet. I didn’t feel that my toes were crammed when I took these shoes off after the long day at the wedding. The leather is classy and versatile. I have worn these heels a few times since the wedding and they still look brand new, which speaks to their durability.

Overall, I highly recommend these shoes for anyone looking for a high-quality, versatile, and stylish black pump. They are the perfect combination of comfort, quality, and style, which makes them a great investment piece for your wardrobe.

Shop Classic Black Heels

Shop Elevated and Embellished Black Heels

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, a timeless black heel is a must-have in any wardrobe. Its versatility, timeless style, and ability to elevate any outfit make it the perfect shoe for any occasion. Whether you're dressing up for a night out or heading to a professional meeting, a black heel will make you look and feel your best. So, if you don't already own a pair, it's time to invest!