Long Weekend Musings: Are Kitten Heels the Cat's Meow?

If there were a shoe equivalent to salt and vinegar potato chips, the kitten heel may be it. You know what I'm talking about - people either love 'em or hate 'em. And the more I googled to validate that point, the clearer it became that kitten heels are definitely a polarizing accessory.

Admittedly, despite thinking about shoes far more often than the average human, I can honestly say that the argument for or against the kitten heel was not one I ever paid much attention to. But with this shoe trend popping up in more recent years, the kitten heel has managed to tip-toe its way into my thoughts; forcing me to take a stance once and for all.

And what did I decide?

Unsurprisingly, I fall on positive end of this shoe spectrum. Personally, I think what makes the kitten heel so controversial -- their dainty shape and borderline-old-lady vibes -- are actually the things that, to me, make them pretty damn cool. Perhaps it's because Emanuelle Alt wears them so well and I'm smitten with anything Parisian, but there is definitely something about a basic tee tucked into some high waist, straight leg, vintage inspired denim punctuated with a kitten heel that just feels incredibly effortless and chic that I can't help but think it's the bees-freaking-knees.

So, if you happen to be on the fence with regards to the the kitten heel, I have included a little food for thought over the holiday weekend: a selection of styling inspirations, my own interpretation of the trend, as well as some affordable shoe options. Now may be just the right time, because, hello! Labor Day Sales!
Images credits, clockwise from top: Roe Diary, Haut Appetit, Clique Mag, Who What Wear

On me (clockwise): Vintage Ferragamo slingbacks/Levi's jeans/J.Crew Vintage Tee/Vintage Gucci belt (similar); J.Crew Dulci Pumps/Madewell jeans/Abercrombie & Fitch bodysuit. Vintage Gucci mules/Gap jeans (similar)/Madewell t-shirt (old)/J.Crew sweatshirt

If I weren't on a shoe no-buy, I'd have the following in my cart:

These Sam Edelmans, another pair of my J.Crew pumps (they are so comfortable), and these rose gold Nine West mules (because, rose gold)

While the jury may still be deliberating on the ultimate fate of the kitten heel, my verdict is in: They're purrrr-fect.