Heels For Every Wallet
High heels have a way of making an entrance, but the price tag can sometimes feel just as dramatic as the shoes they're attached to. On one side, you’ve got designers charging more than a month’s rent for a single pair. On the other hand, budget-friendly brands prove you don’t need to drain your savings to look polished. This article lines up both extremes. So, first, let’s take a look at ten high heel designers who treat shoes like status symbols.
1. Christian Louboutin ($600–$6,000+)
Christian Louboutin has built a reputation as one of the most expensive high heel designers in the world. His shoes are instantly recognizable because of their famous signature red soles, a detail that has become a global symbol of luxury. Plus, a single pair can easily exceed several thousand dollars when custom-made.
Christian Louboutin Daffodile 160MM Pumps Unboxing & Walking Demo by Housewife In Heels
2. Jimmy Choo ($600–$4,500+)
Frequently chosen by royalty and Hollywood stars, Jimmy Choo is linked to prestige and sophistication. Its signature pumps with crystal embellishments enhance its look, while ready-to-wear and bespoke services make it essential for luxury weddings.
JIMMY CHOO ODETTE 100 | UNBOXING, REVIEW & TRY-ON | THE BEST DESIGNER HEELS EVER?! by Abbie Cawood
3. Manolo Blahnik ($700–$4,000+)
Celebrated as a cult favorite, Manolo Blahnik rose to fame through pop culture. The brand specializes in timeless, handcrafted high heels that reflect classic elegance and craftsmanship. Produced in limited quantities, these creations achieve exclusivity and remain beloved by celebrities.
MANOLO BLAHNIK UNBOXING! | I'm Excited to Share My First New Manolos by Meet Penelope
4. Stuart Weitzman ($400–$2,000+)
Prominent for turning shoes into works of art, Stuart Weitzman gained worldwide attention with million-dollar heels encrusted with diamonds. Interestingly, its shoes blend wearable designs with bold statement showpieces, using materials like cork, vinyl, and Swarovski crystals.
Stuart Weitzman Leigh 70 SKU: 9092762 by Shop Zappos
5. Gucci ($650–$5,000+)
Gucci has become synonymous with extravagant high heels that merge Italian craftsmanship with bold, contemporary design. Its high price tags reflect the use of luxurious materials like velvet, exotic skins, and metallic leather. And the brand’s iconic interlocking “GG” enhances these shoes beyond footwear into wearable symbols of wealth.
**STUNNING GUCCI UNBOXING - The Luxury Heels YOU can't afford to miss! by Heather Lingerfelt
6. Dolce & Gabbana ($800–$10,000+)
Luxury footwear takes on a storytelling quality when crafted by Dolce & Gabbana, where each high heel echoes the brand’s deep ties to Sicilian culture and baroque grandeur. Ornate jewels and theatrical flair further define their creations, making them enduring symbols of Italian opulence.
Dolce and Gabbana Embellished satin sandals unboxing by AlicePinkCat
7. Alexander McQueen ($900–$5,000+)
Alexander McQueen redefined the boundaries of high heel design with footwear that often resembles sculpture more than conventional shoes. His creations, such as the legendary “Armadillo” heels, became milestones in fashion history for their daring shapes and extreme heights.
Alexander McQueen Shoes from Neiman Marcus Review. by Cammile1
8. Miu Miu ($650–$2,500+)
Miu Miu transforms high heels into playful statements of personality, leaning on youthful energy and daring design to carve its niche in luxury fashion. Crystals, bows, glitter, and metallic finishes often adorn its creations, further giving them a whimsical yet sophisticated edge.
Unboxing Miu Miu Captoe Maryjane Pump by light
9. Valentino ($750–$4,500+)
Edgy accents meet timeless femininity in Valentino’s high heel collections, where the legendary Rockstud line redefined luxury footwear. Moreover, soft leathers and precise detailing highlight Italian craftsmanship, while bold studded embellishments lend a modern edge.
Birthday Gift Unboxing - Valentino Rockstud High Heels! by Mimi's Shoebox
10. Louis Vuitton ($900–$5,000+)
Luxury footwear from Louis Vuitton extends the house’s iconic heritage beyond handbags, turning high heels into unmistakable statements of prestige. Signature LV monograms and motifs often appear across both sleek pumps and bold couture creations, which reinforces the brand’s global identity.
Louis Vuitton Unboxing | Francesca Fox by Francesca Fox
Now, here are ten affordable brands that keep style fun without breaking the bank.
1. Steve Madden ($80–$200)
Steve Madden built its reputation on making runway-inspired shoes feel within reach, and that’s exactly why it’s a favorite for affordable heels. Founded in 1990 in New York, the brand quickly became a go-to for younger shoppers chasing bold, fashion-forward looks.
Steve Madden Fall 2025 | Heel Theory by STEVE MADDEN
2. Nine West ($70–$150)
When it comes to heels that work just as well for power suits as they do for cocktail dresses, Nine West has been a trusted name since 1978. Besides, shoppers love that Nine West heels are easy to find in department stores and online.
Nine West Mules Unboxing & Review by Mimi's Shoebox
3. The Jessica Simpson Collection ($70–$140)
Launched in 2005 by singer Jessica Simpson, this collection delivers heels with bold colors, feminine details, and comfort-focused design. Popular among women seeking accessible glamour, the brand makes fashionable yet approachable shoes, making dressing up fun, affordable, and wearable.
Jessica Simpson High High Heels Unboxing & Review Rerun by Mimi's Shoebox
4. Aldo ($80–$140)
Founded in Canada in 1972, Aldo has grown into a global name with stores in over 100 countries. Its heels span sleek minimalist pumps to trendy platforms, and are constantly refreshed to keep styles in step with today’s fashion trends.
Aldo blue heels unbox by Denise Hoog
5. Charles & Keith ($50–$120)
Charles & Keith proves you don’t need a designer label to look chic. Their sleek, modern heels bring minimalist cool without draining your wallet. Beloved across Asia and gaining global fans, the brand is every budget-conscious shopper’s shortcut to affordable sophistication.
Unboxing Charles & Keith Iridescent Heels by ShoesBags Etcetera
6. Sam Edelman ($100–$160)
Sam Edelman, launched in 2004 by its namesake footwear veteran, strikes the perfect balance between timeless style and everyday wearability. Positioned between high fashion and affordability, the brand delivers heels that feel classic.
Sam Edelman Pointed Toe Classic or Novelty Pumps - Hazel on QVC by QVCtv
7. Chinese Laundry ($70–$130)
Chinese Laundry, with its unforgettable name, has been a Los Angeles staple since the late 1970s. The brand is known for bold silhouettes, from platforms to stilettos, delivering heels ready for any night out. Moreover, its seasonal refreshes keep styles trendy.
Chinese Laundry Forever SKU: 9715622 by Shop Zappos
8. Vince Camuto ($90–$150)
Founded in 2001 by fashion entrepreneur Vince Camuto, this brand delivers heels that seamlessly move from office hours to evening outings. Known for durability, feminine detailing, and a mix of quality materials, it offers luxury-inspired looks at approachable prices.
Vince Camuto Nubuck Perforated Heeled Sandals - Ekanya on QVC by QVCtv
9. Public Desire ($50–$100)
Public Desire, a UK-based label, thrives on delivering runway-inspired heels at lightning speed. With bold shapes like lace-up stilettos, perspex designs, and statement platforms, it caters to a trend-obsessed crowd. Affordable yet varied, the brand keeps young shoppers stocked with stylish options that feel fresh every season.
EXTRA WEDDING SHOES FOR LESS THAN £35? TRYING HEELS FROM PUBLIC DESIRE by Leia Harrison
10. Dolce Vita ($100–$160)
True to its name, Dolce Vita brings a taste of the “sweet life” to footwear. Since 2001, the brand has delivered heels with bold patterns, textured finishes, and bohemian-meets-urban style. From wedges to block heels, it offers quality detailing and standout looks at approachable prices.
