How to recognise it
At the top, under the foot, the heel is wide like a block, and it narrows down to a small base. Height is usually 4–8 cm.
Where it comes from
Cone heels were popular in the 1950s and 1960s and today appear on fashionable pumps and ankle boots.
Who and when it suits
It sits between a block heel and a stiletto: steadier than a thin heel, more elegant than a wide one. It suits the office and evenings.
Variations and look-alikes
It comes lower or higher, covered in leather, metal or wood, on pumps and ankle boots. A metal cone heel looks fashionable. It differs from a stiletto in its wider top. The wider the base, the steadier it is, and on ankle boots it looks businesslike while on pumps it looks elegant.
How to style it
- Works for the office and evenings.
- Looks fashionable on ankle boots.
- Choose 5–7 cm.
- Check the stability before buying.
Similar styles
Frequently asked
01How does a cone heel differ from a block heel?
A block heel is wide all the way down; a cone heel narrows at the base.
02Is a cone heel comfortable?
More comfortable than a stiletto, slightly less stable than a block.
03Which shoes usually have a cone heel?
Pumps and ankle boots.
04Does a cone heel work in winter?
Yes, on ankle boots with a grippy sole.