We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.

    29 Chunky Pairs Of Heels For Anyone Looking For Extra Height Without Losing Their Balance

    Thank you, stilettos, but your services are no longer needed.

    Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women’s.

    1. Adorable leather heels with sweet scalloped details you'll wanna flaunt all spring. These handmade beauties will go perfectly with all of those sundresses you've been stockpiling. 

    model's feet in the green leather heels
    BaliElf / Etsy

    They have a 3-inch heel. 

    Based in — you guessed it — Bali, small biz Bali Elf makes gorgeous leather goods ranging from shoes and bags to wallets and clutches. 

    Promising review: "Super comfy and really pretty shoes. Excellent communication around dispatch and delivery. Loved the little extra gifts in the parcel on delivery. Would totally recommend Bali Elf, in fact I have my eye on a pair of flat shoes for later." —elinore harper-spiller

    Get them from Bali Elf on Etsy for $170 (available in sizes 4–12.5 and six colors). 

    2. Iconic Dr. Martens Rometty boots, which will instantly up your outfit's cool factor. Wear 'em with everything from cropped jeans to dresses, and enjoy feeling just a tad bit taller without feeling like you're wobbling down the street. 

    close up of reviewer's foot wearing the black boot
    overhead shot of reviewer wearing the black boots

    They have a 2-inch heel. 

    Prime members: You can try before you buy!

    I bought these boots last year and they quickly became the ones I reach for whenever I'm not wearing sneakers. They're SO comfortable (I've worn them walking around both NYC and Europe for hours on end), and that bit of extra height makes 5' tall me feel like I can take on the world. They're also ridiculously cute and worth every cent of what they cost, thanks to their durability and versatility. I've worn them in the rain and never once worried about slipping! Best of all, they look great with a casual jeans look or gussied up with a slip skirt, which I've paired them with on many occasions. I know they'll last me a long time, but I'm already certain I won't hesitate to buy a replacement pair when they finally give out. 10/10, buy them! Oh, and FYI, they run a little big, so consider sizing down!

    Promising review: "Love them so much! They took a day to break in, but are super comfortable. The chunky heel is giving my inner '90s child life. They add a touch of rock and roll to any outfit. Sturdy and well-made." —Bethany

    Get them from Amazon for $118.65+ (available in sizes 5–11). 

    3. Open-toe platform pumps with thick 4.5-inch heels that'll have you swearing off stilettos for good once you realize how much more supported your feet feel. 

    reviewer wearing the red heels
    reviewer's foot in the black pump

    Prime members: You can try before you buy!

    Promising review: "Literally the best heels ever. I typically struggle with finding a pair of heels that fit right, look right, and feel right. The rubber on the bottom actually makes them super sturdy and comfortable to walk in, there’s no feeling of slipping or slickness. Platform and heel give great support. I was carrying my niece around all day, helping move stuff around, walked on grass/tile/hardwood floors, and loved them. 10/10 would recommend!!" —Real review

    Get them from Amazon for $47.99+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 18 styles). 

    4. Or a slightly shorter pair you could totally wear while you're out on the town without feeling like you're about to topple over. No more trying to stay afloat on heels no wider than toothpicks! 

    reviewer photo of the glittery pumps in their shoebox
    reviewer wearing the black pumps with a yellow jumpsuit

    They have a 3.75-inch heel. 

    Prime members: You can try before you buy!

    Promising review: "They fit perfectly and the chunky heel makes them so comfortable. I wore them to a wedding and danced all night without any problems! Also pairs great with jeans and a cute shirt!" —Shetoria

    Get them from Amazon for $25.15+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 10 colors). 

    5. Platform Mary Janes for an ~elevated~ and modern take on the classic shoe. Just like the originals, they're adorable with or without socks, and with their wide heel you'll feel just as stable as you would wearing the OGs. 

    model wearing the black mary jane heels with socks
    the brown mary jane heels
    Free People

    They have a 4.3-inch heel. 

    Promising review: "These are the perfect Mary Janes. They are both chic and comfy. The platform itself isn’t very heavy so they are easy to walk in. They also add a good bit of height without making you feel like you’re gonna roll on your ankle. Plus the soft leather really seals the deal. I love them! Oh also the toe is almost like a square shape but it really doesn’t come off as harsh, but it def makes them more modern-looking." —Em_Rojo

    Get them from Free People for $168 (available in sizes 6–11 and three colors — not all colors available in all sizes). 

    6. Or equally cute but lower-profile Mary Janes with a vintage '50s vibe that'll make you wish your town had a local drive-in so you could show them off to all the cool kids between double features. ~Sigh~ 

    reviewer wearing the white mary janes with knee socks
    reviewer wearing the navy mary janes with tights

    They have a 2.5-inch heel. 

    Promising review: "Super comfortable. Perfect fit. Stable because of the chunky heel. Absolutely love these and plan on getting every color." —M. Clayton

    Get them from Amazon for $50.99 (available in sizes 5–11 and 14 colors). 

    7. Swedish wooden clogs for anyone who likes having a little extra height, even when they're keeping things casual. These sturdy shoes have a strap for extra reinforcement, and reviewers say they're surprisingly lightweight!

    model's feet wearing the black clogs
    model's feet wearing the brown clogs
    Leather World Designs / Etsy

    Based in Poland, Leather World Designs makes quality leather clogs for adults and kids in a wide array of lovely designs. 

    Promising review: "I absolutely love these clogs. Not only are they stylish, they’re also extremely comfortable. I’m a teacher who stands and walks around the classroom throughout the work day, and these clogs truly make my job pain-free. Thank you!!" —Laurelin

    Another promising review: "The shoes are absolutely beautiful and arrived even sooner than I thought they would! They are super lightweight and very comfortable. I would love to buy another pair in the future." —Alicia Hollis

    Get them from Leather World Designs on Etsy for $101 (available in sizes 5–10 and 22 colors). 

    8. TikTok-famous Steve Madden Cobra boots with a *double* platform, because when it comes to tall shoes, the sky is truly the limit. And not only are they stunning, reviewers say they're comfy to ~boot~!

    close-up of model wearing the black boots with jeans
    model wearing the black boots with a leather jacket
    Steve Madden, www.instagram.com

    They have a 5-inch heel and 2.25-inch platform.

    Prime members: You can try before you buy!

    Promising review: "These boots give me the serotonin I’ve been missing. I love them with all my heart! I feel so confident in them. They’re super comfortable. I walked around in them all day with zero blisters!" —Gianna R.

    Get them from Amazon for $152.48+ or Steve Madden for $69.99 (originally $169.95; available in sizes 5–12 and 12 styles). 

    9. And wooden-soled Charlotte Stone clog boots, which are equal parts sleek and earthy — and will look gorgeous with all of the midi skirts and dresses in your closet! 

    model wearing the black, wood-soled boots with a green skirt
    model wearing the yellow boots with jeans
    Charlotte Stone

    They have a cushy memory foam insole and are made with vegan leather.

    Charlotte Stone founded her shoe brand in Southern California in 2014, and if you're also a fan of colorful footwear, you'll wanna check out the rest of her vibrant designs!

    Promising review: "These boots boast even more beauty in person and on the foot. The quality and craftsmanship of these branded gems never fails. You’ll have a fan and patron in me for life!" —Traci Dodds

    Get them from Charlotte Stone for $298 (available in sizes 5 and 7–13 and three colors — not all colors available in all sizes). 

    10. Marc Fisher block heel pumps to take you from work to the ballet, and everywhere in between. They strike just the right balance between stylish and sensible, and their 3-inch height is perfect for anyone who wants to feel considerably taller without going overboard. 

    the black pump
    profile view of the pink pump
    Nordstrom

    Prime members: You can try before you buy!

    Promising review: "Loved these shoes. Bought them for my cousin's wedding. I was on my feet for over eight hours, also chasing two kids around under three. I didn’t get a single blister and my feet weren’t falling off by the end of the night. Very comfortable and easy to walk in." —Looooovveeeee

    Another promising review: "I love high heels, but they really aren’t practical when being an in office all day. But this block heel is the perfect height to still be stylish and comfortable. The teal suede is stunning! I will be wearing these as often as I can!" —SPS28

    Get them from Amazon for $147.20+ or Nordstrom for $64+ (available in sizes 5–12 and 16 colors). 

    11. Shimmery Circus NY peep-toes with respectable 4-inch block heels that'll raise you up more than Josh Groban ever could. And can we please talk about those ~swoon-worthy~ colors?!

    profile of the blue heel, which has a jeweled buckle
    the green heels with pink soles
    Urban Outfitters

    They have a 1/2-inch platform. 

    Get them from Urban Outfitters for $100 (available in sizes 6–10 and three colors). 

    12. Easy breezy block-heeled mules for anyone who despises too-tight straps that dig into their ankles (*raises hand*). They're super low-maintenance and have an impressive 4-inch heel for a well-supported boost. 

    reviewer photo of the tan mules
    reviewer photo of the black mules

    They have a 4-inch heel.

    Prime members: You can try before you buy!

    Promising review: "Cute shoes that fit well. I can wear them with any outfit. They are comfortable to wear to work or a night out. They fit as expected and the heel is just high enough for dresses and jeans." —FamClan

    Get them from Amazon for $39.01+ (available in sizes 5–13 and 18 colors). 

    13. Or some snazzy heeled sandals, aka a more "uplifting" alternative to those flimsy flip-flops you've been sliding around in since 2016. Their soft, thick braided straps aren't only super cute; they'll also keep your feet in place!

    close up of reviewer holding the black sandal
    full length view of reviewer wearing the black sandals

    They come in 2-inch or 3-inch heels. 

    Promising review: "Reaching for these sandals more and more because they’re comfy, cute, and elevate my outfits! They didn’t require any breaking in and I’ve worn them for an entire day out and had no issues with long term wear. Fit was true to size. Going to get another color since I love them so much!" —Nidhi Patel

    Get them from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes 6–10, with thin or thick straps, and in six colors). 

    14. Thicc suede Dolce Vita boots you'll wanna wear with everything, even if you're not a "heels person." Seriously, those heels are so sturdy even the cow from Twister could've held its ground had these come in its size. 

    model wearing the white boots
    Dolce Vita

    They have a 3.5-inch heel.

    Prime members: You can try before you buy!

    Promising review: "I love these shoes and can wear them with everything. The platform is great for height and comfort and the ankle height is a perfect level. I highly recommend them!" —Micaela Z.

    Get them from Amazon for $78.76+ or Dolce Vita for $99.90 (available in sizes 6–13, including wide sizes, and 12 styles — not all styles available in all sizes). 

    15. Or some stretchy block-heel boots to keep you propped up all day without feeling like you're gonna need a handrail for stability. And not only that, the thick lug sole provides ample traction to prevent you from wiping out on slippery sidewalks. 

    reviewer wearing one of the beige boots and holding the other
    reviewer wearing the tan boots with jeans and a flannel shirt

    They have a 2-inch heel.

    Prime members: You can try before you buy!

    Promising review: "These boots are extremely comfortable. They've seemed to hold up well so far. The color is a bit lighter in person than expected, but the size fits right. I like having them as casual boots to throw on with jeans. They do have a heel that is decently high, but it’s easy to balance in. Overall, good shoes for everyday activities." —Courtney

    Get them from Amazon for $61.98+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 19 colors). 

    16. Spiffy heeled loafers, because on days when you wanna feel just a ~little~ dressed up without sacrificing comfort, these will have you looking polished in no time. 

    reviewer's feet in the white loafers with green socks
    reviewer's feet in the red loafers

    They have a 2.5-inch heel, and reviewers say these run a bit large.

    Promising review: "Great find! I needed a platform shoe for a couple pairs of wide-legged pants that were too long. I bought these for the height, style, and color options, but got more than I anticipated. These shoes look great and are unbelievably comfortable. I bought them for a special occasion but I couldn’t wait. They look great with preppy, cropped-leg pants and wide-legged cropped jeans so I’m wearing them all the time with so many things." —Leah C. Morgan

    Get them from Amazon for $37.38+ (available in sizes 5–11 and 21 colors). 

    17. Cute Toms canvas cutout sandals I can envision you attending many a warm weather picnic in, thanks to their casual-chic style and thicker heel that won't have you sinking into the grass. 

    side view of reviewer wearing the white sandals
    reviewer wearing the leopard-print sandals

    They have a 3-inch heel. 

    Promising review: "I'm obsessed with this shoe! I love that it fits like a bootie. Adorable with skinny jeans/leggings, dresses, etc. Can be dressed up or down — I wore them to a wedding in Greece, and also out and about during the day in Spain. Very comfortable for walking, dancing, whatever!" —jasmineflower

    Get them from Amazon for $34+ (available in sizes 5–12 and 12 styles). 

    18. Pointy-toed pumps with modest 2-inch heels for a little lift without making you feel like you're veering into stilt-walking territory. And since they come in *tons* of gorgeous colors, you may wanna think about stocking up. 👀

    reviewer holding the red shoe next to a dog
    reviewer's feet wearing the red shoes

    Prime members: You can try before you buy!

    Promising review: "Was soooo pleasantly surprised by this purchase. The size was true to normal shoe size. Love a good square heel for stability. Most comfortable heels I’ve bought in a long time! Have worn to multiple weddings/events and they hold up nicely. Would highly recommend." —BLB

    Get them from Amazon for $56.98 (available in sizes 5–12 and 27 colors). 

    19. Or some elegant rounded-toe pumps if you prefer a softer, more classic-looking shoe that looks as great with a casual pair of jeans as it does with a cute dress. 

    close up of reviewer holding the black heel
    reviewer's foot wearing the black heel

    While the listing says they have a 2.5-inch heel, several reviewers say it's more like a 3–3.5-inch heel. 

    Promising review: "They're very cute and very easy to walk in! I grew up playing in swamps and my balance is absolutely awful, so I'm not generally the type to wear heels — for both style and safety reasons. I trip and roll my ankles a lot! However, the base of these heels is wide enough that I don't roll my ankles, and I haven't tripped once! I did put a gel insert in the shoes to make them more comfortable to wear long-term, and that has worked very well. I also think they are absolutely adorable! I've never loved a pair of heels before! I highly recommend them, especially to women who have a hard time walking in heels." —Christina Norwood

    Get them from Amazon for $21.84+ (available in sizes 5.5–11 and 10 colors). 

    20. Jaw-dropping sequin- and glitter-studded boots, which will 100% guarantee attention all night long. Just be prepared for everyone you encounter to ask, "WHERE CAN I GET THOSE?!"

    reviewer's feet wearing the multicolored sequined boots
    reviewer wearing the boots with jeans and a pink blazer

    They have a 4-inch heel. 

    Promising review: "I have been stalking these boots for the better part of a year and decided to go ahead and treat myself. I am so glad I did! First off, they look even better in person (if that is even possible). Second, they are really light for a chunky boot. I was expecting to have some weight to them, but I was pleasantly surprised. Finally, and most important, they are soooooo comfortable! I love the cushiony insole and the ease of fit and walking. These are a win!!! So if you are thinking about buying them, JUST DO IT BOO!!!" —K.Pate

    Get them from Amazon for $37.90+ (available in sizes 6–11 and three styles). 

    21. Multicolored platforms that'll liven up your current collection of all-black shoes. And not only will they give your feet extra stability, they'll also let you show off your fun new pedi!

    model's feet wearing the colorful wedges
    model's feet wearing the colorful wedges with leggings
    Mexicanita Handmade / Etsy

    They have a 4-inch heel. 

    Based in Pasco, Washington, Mexicanita Handmade specializes in gorgeous shoes, clothing, and accessories made in founder Laura Patricia Ruelas' home country of Mexico. 

    Promising review: "I haven’t had so many compliments on a pair of heels in a while. They look even better in person and I was quite surprised by how comfortable they were." —Stephanie Garcia

    Get them from Mexicanita Handmade on Etsy for $62.99 (available in sizes 5–9). 

    22. Twinkly Steve Madden heels to don during dressier events when you wanna dance the night away without having to ditch your uncomfortable shoes after 20 minutes. 

    reviewer photo of the pair of sparkly heels
    back of reviewer's foot in the sparkly heel

    They have a 4-inch heel. 

    Prime members: You can try before you buy!

    Promising review: "I love everything about these shoes! They are beautiful, comfortable, and have the most gorgeous sparkle. They're very comfortable for being so high." —Kindle Customer

    Get them from Amazon for $64.09+ (available in sizes 6–10). 

    23. Versatile chunky ankle boots that'll become your go-to for pairing with tights in the fall and cropped pants during the warmer months. And for even more comfort, those stretchy elastic sides make for easy on and off. 

    overhead shot of reviewer's feet wearing the black boots
    reviewer wearing the black boot

    They have a 3.5-inch heel. 

    Promising review: "I love everything about these boots — they are well-made, very fashionable, and comfortable. I was a little concerned about the height of the heel being uncomfortable but I wore them to work all day and didn't have any problems with my feet hurting. Very happy with my purchase!" —momtojsh

    Get them from Amazon for $18.77+ (available in sizes 5.5–11 and seven colors). 

    24. And faux leather heeled boots with ties and zippers so you'll be able to slip 'em right on whenever you want extra height while feeling supported.

    close up of reviewer holding the black boot
    reviewer wearing the black boots while holding a dog

    They have a 3.5-inch heel. 

    Promising review: "Love the function and look of the side zipper. The chunky heel gives height while still being stable and comfortable for wearing. Laces ensure adjustable fit. Get many compliments, these shoes look great with so many outfits, dressed up or down. Perfect for rainy or cold weather, too." —Jessica

    Get it from Amazon for $19+ (available in sizes 5.5–11 and seven colors). 

    25. Splurge-worthy block heel mules that truly have it all: effortless slip-on style, a comfy 2-inch cylinder heel, and a bevy of gorgeous color options. Wear 'em day or night, but expect compliments galore wherever you go. 

    a model wearing white pants and the mules in red suede
    model wearing the blue mules with a green dress
    Ma’am Shoes, Ma'am Shoes

    Ma'am Shoes is a woman-owned small biz that makes shoes with a focus on comfort, style, and sustainability. 

    BuzzFeed Shopping's Danielle Healy LOVES these shoes: "Sometimes it feels like my feet are made of paper with how easily they blister. So when a brand markets itself as having a focus on stylish comfort, I am all ears. Fresh out of the box, I wore these red beauties out to dinner (a 20-minute walk each way) and my feet were no worse for wear. So I decided to put them through the ultimate test — a wedding. Even after hours of dancing, my feet felt great and I got loads of compliments. A statement shoe that really does look and feel great? *Big swoon.*"

    Get them from Ma’am Shoes for $300+ (available in sizes 4.5–11 and five colors).

    26. Leather strappy sandals with sensible 2-inch heels to keep your feet happy when you want an up-grade from your flip-flops. They're pretty much the white tennis shoe of the heels world (since they literally go with *everything*) so don't be surprised when they become your most reached-for summer pair.  

    model wearing the brown sandals
    model wearing the light brown sandals
    Nordstrom

    Rebecca Allen is a Black woman-owned small biz specializing in beautiful nude shoes designed to complement a range of skin tones.  

    Promising review: "I was able to try these on in-store and immediately knew they were coming home with me. VERY comfortable and my typical size fit great. Hardest decision was picking a color. I went with the light nude, but might also get the brown." —AriannaKarlisse

    Get them from Nordstrom for $185 (available in sizes 6–10 and three colors). 

    27. Sleek ankle boots that look much more expensive than they actually are and will have your feet looking fabulous without any awkward wobbling. 

    reviewer close up of the white boot
    reviewer wearing the black boots

    They have a 2-inch heel — sizing up is recommended!

    Promising review: "Love these boots! Would order them again! Soo snazzy! And comfortable! Wore them for over 10 hours at work with no pain!" —Maria

    Get them from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in sizes 5–12 and six styles — not all styles available in all colors). 

    28. Suede lace-up heels, which will make you feel like a ballerina as you wrap the ribbons around your leg. Just promise you'll stick to your usual moves when you take these out dancing rather than trying to go en pointe.

    model's feet in the red heels
    model's feet in the pink heels
    Lulus

    They have a 3.75-inch heel. 

    Promising review: "Bought these shoes to wear for photos for a wedding and they are gorgeous! Very comfortable, and the straps are long enough to tie a bunch of different ways!" —Jenna V.

    Another promising review: "Perfect shoes for a color pop! Very easy to walk in as someone who struggles with heels." —Nohea K.

    Get them from Lulus for $38 (available in sizes 5–11 and four colors — not all colors available in all sizes). 

    29. And finally, showstopping glittery sandals so gorgeous, they'd give Cinderella's glass slippers a run for their money. These would be the *dreamiest* wedding shoes, and their thicker heel means you can boogie all night long. 

    the silver heel
    the gold heel
    Nordstrom

    They have a 3.75-inch heel.

    Prime members: You can try before you buy!

    Promising review: "My new favorite shoes. Beautiful gold glitter that doesn’t leave sparkles everywhere. The most gorgeous shoes I own. Also very comfortable." —justinegrier

    Another promising review: "You can dance in these! I was able to dance all night because of the thicker heel. This would not have been possible in a stiletto heel." —motheroffour

    Get them from Amazon for $69.69+ or Nordstrom for $89 (available in sizes 5–11 and three colors). 

    Your long-forgotten stilettos are all like:

    Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.