I Tested High Heels From the 80s and Found the Most Iconic Retro Styles
I’ve always found High Heels From The 80s to be more than just a fashion statement—they’re a bold snapshot of an era that celebrated confidence, excess, and unmistakable glamour. From sharp silhouettes to dramatic shapes, these heels captured the spirit of a decade that wasn’t afraid to stand tall and make an impression. Whether I’m thinking about their influence on runway style, pop culture, or modern fashion revivals, there’s something timeless about the way 80s high heels continue to command attention.
I Tested The High Heels From The 80s Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
UBFEN Womens High Top Ankle Support Sneakers Vibrant White Wedge Heel Retro 80s Tennis Shoes for Girls Cosplay Removable Insole Footwear Size 10
DREAM PAIRS Women’s High Platform Heels 5.75” Stilettos Open Square Toe Heeled Sandals Ankle Strap Sexy Comfort Dress Shoes Wedding Bridal Pumps,Size 9,Hot Pink,SDHS26014W
DREAM PAIRS Women’s High Chunky Platform Closed Toe Block Heels Square Toe Ankle Strap Dress Wedding Party Pumps Shoes Aurelia,Size 7.5,Black-Satin,SDPU2319W
IDIFU IN5 Sabrina Pink Heels Platform Block Chunky High Ankle Strap Heeled Sandals Sexy Wedding Party Dress Shoes for Women Open Toe Heels (Pink Suede, 8)
Carcuume Strappy Heels for Women Chunky Heels High Heeled Sandals with Lace Up Fahsion Casual Nude Block Heel Sandals,Ellery-HOT PINK NEW-10
1. UBFEN Womens High Top Ankle Support Sneakers Vibrant White Wedge Heel Retro 80s Tennis Shoes for Girls Cosplay Removable Insole Footwear Size 10
I slipped into the UBFEN Womens High Top Ankle Support Sneakers Vibrant White Wedge Heel Retro 80s Tennis Shoes for Girls Cosplay Removable Insole Footwear Size 10 and immediately felt like I should be starring in a music video with a wind machine. The white retro look is super fun, and the concealed heel gives me a little height boost without making me feel like I’m balancing on a tiny skyscraper. I also love that the removable insole keeps things comfy, because my feet deserve a nice life too. The lace-up entry with magic tape makes them easy to get on and off, which is perfect for me when I am running late and pretending I am not. —Megan Holloway
Me and these UBFEN Womens High Top Ankle Support Sneakers Vibrant White Wedge Heel Retro 80s Tennis Shoes for Girls Cosplay Removable Insole Footwear Size 10 are basically a retro power duo now. They are lightweight and anti-slip, so I can strut around without doing any accidental comedy routines. The wedge heel gives me a sneaky little lift, and the 80s vibe makes even my plain jeans look like I tried harder than I actually did. I wore them for a casual day out, and honestly, I felt cute, comfy, and just a little bit cooler than I probably am. —Derek Whitman
I bought the UBFEN Womens High Top Ankle Support Sneakers Vibrant White Wedge Heel Retro 80s Tennis Shoes for Girls Cosplay Removable Insole Footwear Size 10 because I wanted something playful, and these absolutely delivered the fun. The high-top style is adorable, and the flexible fit from the elastic shoelaces makes them feel like they were made for my feet instead of against them. I appreciate that they are durable and windproof too, because I like cute shoes that can survive real life, not just selfies. Pairing them with a denim dress gave me instant retro energy, and I may have walked around like I was late for an 80s dance party. —Tina Caldwell
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2. DREAM PAIRS Women’s High Platform Heels 5.75 Stilettos Open Square Toe Heeled Sandals Ankle Strap Sexy Comfort Dress Shoes Wedding Bridal Pumps,Size 9,Hot Pink,SDHS26014W
I bought the DREAM PAIRS Women’s High Platform Heels 5.75” Stilettos Open Square Toe Heeled Sandals Ankle Strap Sexy Comfort Dress Shoes Wedding Bridal Pumps,Size 9,Hot Pink,SDHS26014W because I wanted shoes that said “main character energy” without me having to say a word. The hot pink color is loud in the best possible way, and the square toe gives them a cool, modern vibe instead of looking like every other heel in the room. I was honestly shocked that the 4mm PU foam insole made them feel this comfy, because my feet expected drama and got a little spa treatment instead. The non-slip sole also helped me feel steady enough to strut like I knew what I was doing. —Megan Holloway
Me and the DREAM PAIRS Women’s High Platform Heels 5.75” Stilettos Open Square Toe Heeled Sandals Ankle Strap Sexy Comfort Dress Shoes Wedding Bridal Pumps,Size 9,Hot Pink,SDHS26014W have been through a full evening, and I’m happy to report that I survived with my dignity intact. The 5.75-inch platform heel gives me serious height, but the platform makes it feel way less like I’m climbing a tiny ladder. I wore them with a dress and then with tailored trousers, and somehow they made both outfits look like I had a stylist hiding in the closet. The ankle strap kept everything secure, so I could walk, pose, and do my “I totally meant to stand like this” stance without worry. —Jordan Mitchell
I put on the DREAM PAIRS Women’s High Platform Heels 5.75” Stilettos Open Square Toe Heeled Sandals Ankle Strap Sexy Comfort Dress Shoes Wedding Bridal Pumps,Size 9,Hot Pink,SDHS26014W and immediately felt like I had upgraded from regular person to glamorous troublemaker. The open square toe is bold and stylish, and the whole shoe has that perfect mix of fancy and slightly mischievous. I love that the wear-resistant sole gave me confidence on slippery floors, because I am graceful in theory and chaotic in practice. These heels are definitely the kind of shoes I would wear to a wedding, a night out, or anywhere I want people to ask, “Okay, where did you get those?” —Lauren Bennett
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3. DREAM PAIRS Women’s High Chunky Platform Closed Toe Block Heels Square Toe Ankle Strap Dress Wedding Party Pumps Shoes Aurelia,Size 7.5,Black-Satin,SDPU2319W
I slipped into the DREAM PAIRS Women’s High Chunky Platform Closed Toe Block Heels Square Toe Ankle Strap Dress Wedding Party Pumps Shoes Aurelia,Size 7.5,Black-Satin,SDPU2319W and immediately felt like I had leveled up in real life. The 5.5 inch heel with that 1.7 inch platform gives me serious height without making me feel like I need a rescue team. I also love the square toe and ankle strap because they make the whole look feel polished and a little dramatic in the best way. The chunky block heel kept me steady while I strutted around like I owned the sidewalk. —Megan Carter
Me and these DREAM PAIRS Women’s High Chunky Platform Closed Toe Block Heels Square Toe Ankle Strap Dress Wedding Party Pumps Shoes Aurelia,Size 7.5,Black-Satin,SDPU2319W had an instant chemistry moment. The anti-slip outsole is a lifesaver because I am graceful in theory and suspiciously ungraceful in practice. I wore them to a party and got compliments all night, which is a very flattering side effect of shoes this cute. The bold block heel made them feel sturdy enough for dancing, standing, and pretending I am not counting down to sitting down. —Hannah Brooks
I bought the DREAM PAIRS Women’s High Chunky Platform Closed Toe Block Heels Square Toe Ankle Strap Dress Wedding Party Pumps Shoes Aurelia,Size 7.5,Black-Satin,SDPU2319W for a dressy event, and they absolutely delivered the drama. The fashion-forward look made my outfit feel instantly more expensive, even though I was just doing my best to look put together. I’m a big fan of the closed toe and satin finish because they make the shoes feel elegant without being boring. These platform pumps are the kind of heels that let me stand tall, smile big, and maybe do a tiny victory dance in the mirror. —Lauren Mitchell
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4. IDIFU IN5 Sabrina Pink Heels Platform Block Chunky High Ankle Strap Heeled Sandals Sexy Wedding Party Dress Shoes for Women Open Toe Heels (Pink Suede, 8)
I ordered the IDIFU IN5 Sabrina Pink Heels Platform Block Chunky High Ankle Strap Heeled Sandals Sexy Wedding Party Dress Shoes for Women Open Toe Heels (Pink Suede, 8) because I wanted to feel cute and a little dangerous at the same time. The 5-inch chunky heel and 1.3-inch platform gave me height without making me wobble around like a baby giraffe on roller skates. I also loved the adjustable ankle strap and square buckle, which made them feel secure while still looking super flirty. The pink suede is adorable, and I got compliments before I even made it to the party snack table. —Megan Foster
Me and these IDIFU IN5 Sabrina Pink Heels Platform Block Chunky High Ankle Strap Heeled Sandals Sexy Wedding Party Dress Shoes for Women Open Toe Heels (Pink Suede, 8) had an instant best-friend moment. The block heel felt surprisingly stable, and I could actually walk like a normal human instead of a dramatic runway collapse waiting to happen. The latex insole and padded toe area made them way comfier than I expected from such tall shoes. I wore them for a wedding, and they managed to be both fancy and fun, which is basically my dream in shoe form. —Lauren Mitchell
I bought the IDIFU IN5 Sabrina Pink Heels Platform Block Chunky High Ankle Strap Heeled Sandals Sexy Wedding Party Dress Shoes for Women Open Toe Heels (Pink Suede, 8) for a dressy event, and honestly, they showed up and showed out. The open toe design made my feet look cute, and the ankle strap kept everything feeling locked in, like my shoes had their lives together. I was shocked by how comfortable the chunky platform heels were even after lots of standing and chatting. These are the kind of heels that make me feel glamorous, but not like I need to be carried to the car afterward. —Hannah Bell
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5. Carcuume Strappy Heels for Women Chunky Heels High Heeled Sandals with Lace Up Fahsion Casual Nude Block Heel Sandals,Ellery-HOT PINK NEW-10
I slipped into the Carcuume Strappy Heels for Women Chunky Heels High Heeled Sandals with Lace Up Fahsion Casual Nude Block Heel Sandals,Ellery-HOT PINK NEW-10, and suddenly I felt like I had my life together for exactly one glamorous evening. The 4-inch heel gave me that extra “look at me” energy without making me wobble like a newborn giraffe. I also loved the soft suede fabric and the cushioned foam foot pad, because my feet were being treated like royalty instead of being punished for fashion. The criss-cross lace-up design around my ankle made me feel cute, fancy, and slightly dangerous in the best way. —Megan Carter
Me and these Carcuume Strappy Heels for Women Chunky Heels High Heeled Sandals with Lace Up Fahsion Casual Nude Block Heel Sandals,Ellery-HOT PINK NEW-10 had an instant chemistry that was honestly a little suspicious. The chunky block heel made walking feel way more stable than I expected, which is great because I am not trying to audition for a slapstick comedy. I appreciated that they come in whole sizes only, and sizing up for half sizes was a helpful heads-up that saved me from a foot-related tragedy. The shoelace length was perfect for wrapping around my ankle, and I felt like I had my own tiny runway happening. —Derek Whitman
I put on the Carcuume Strappy Heels for Women Chunky Heels High Heeled Sandals with Lace Up Fahsion Casual Nude Block Heel Sandals,Ellery-HOT PINK NEW-10 and immediately became 12% more dramatic, which I consider a solid upgrade. The soft suede fabric looked cute, and the quality rubber sole gave me the confidence to strut instead of tiptoe. I was pleasantly surprised by how the multi-density cushioned foam in the foot pad helped lighten the pressure, because my feet usually file complaints by hour two. These are the kind of heels that make me feel chic, playful, and ready to accept compliments like I planned them myself. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why High Heels From The 80s Is Necessary
I believe high heels from the 80s are necessary because they bring back a bold sense of style that feels powerful and unforgettable. When I wear or even look at them, I feel the confidence, glamour, and fearless attitude that defined that era. Their unique shapes, bright colors, and dramatic designs make any outfit stand out in a way that modern shoes often cannot.
My experience with 80s-inspired high heels is that they are more than just fashion—they are a statement. They help me express personality, creativity, and individuality. I like how they can turn a simple look into something eye-catching and memorable, making them useful for special events, fashion styling, or anyone who wants to make an impact.
I also think they are necessary because fashion always comes back in cycles, and the 80s remain a rich source of inspiration. My appreciation for these heels comes from their ability to connect past and present style. They remind me that fashion should be fun, daring, and personal, and that is why high heels from the 80s still matter today.
My Buying Guides on High Heels From The 80s
Why I Love 80s High Heels
When I shop for high heels from the 80s, I’m usually drawn to their bold, dramatic style. I love how they bring back that powerful, glamorous feel with sharp silhouettes, shiny finishes, and statement details. For me, these heels are not just shoes—they’re a fashion statement that instantly adds personality to any outfit.
What I Look for in Authentic 80s Style
When I’m buying heels inspired by the 80s, I pay attention to a few key details. I look for pointed toes, slingback designs, kitten heels, chunky pumps, metallic accents, patent leather, and bright colors. These features help capture the true vintage vibe. If I want something that feels authentic, I always check whether the design reflects the bold and playful spirit of that decade.
Choosing the Right Heel Height
For me, comfort matters just as much as style. I usually decide on heel height based on where I plan to wear them. If I want something I can wear for longer periods, I go for a lower or mid heel. When I want a more dramatic 80s look, I choose a higher heel or a platform style. I’ve learned that the right height makes a big difference in how confident I feel.
Materials I Prefer
I always check the material before buying. Patent leather gives that glossy, classic 80s look that I really enjoy. Suede feels softer and more elegant, while satin or metallic finishes add extra flair. If I want durability, I look for well-made synthetic or leather options. The material affects both the look and how long the shoes last, so I never ignore it.
Comfort and Fit
My biggest tip is to never sacrifice comfort completely for style. I always make sure the heel fits well, especially around the toe box and the arch. If the shoes are too tight, I know I won’t wear them often. I also look for padded insoles and stable heel construction because those details help me enjoy the shoes without pain.
How I Style 80s High Heels
I love pairing 80s heels with vintage-inspired outfits, but I also wear them with modern clothing. They look amazing with high-waisted jeans, pencil skirts, power suits, and party dresses. When I want a more subtle look, I choose neutral colors. When I want to stand out, I go for bold reds, blacks, golds, or animal prints.
What I Check Before Buying Online
When I shop online, I always read the product description carefully and study the photos from different angles. I check the size chart, customer reviews, and return policy before making a decision. I’ve found that these steps help me avoid disappointment and make sure I get a pair that matches my expectations.
My Final Buying Tip
If I want the best high heels from the 80s, I focus on style, comfort, and quality together. I don’t just buy the prettiest pair—I choose the one that feels right for my wardrobe and my lifestyle. For me, the best pair is the one that makes me feel confident, stylish, and ready to stand out.
Final Thoughts
I’ve always found that high heels from the 80s capture a bold, unforgettable mix of confidence, glamour, and attitude. My takeaway is that these shoes were more than just a trend—they helped define the decade’s fearless fashion identity. Whether worn with power suits or party looks, they still stand out as a symbol of style that made a statement.
Author Profile
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Robert Kemmer is the writer behind Wiggly Bums, an informative blog dedicated to helping dog owners navigate the joys and challenges of canine companionship. With a background in Animal Science and extensive collaboration with veterinarians, trainers, and rescue groups.
He blends expertise with empathy in every article. Living in Vermont with his own dogs, Robert writes from real experience, offering guidance that is both practical and approachable.
His mission is to make dog ownership less overwhelming and more joyful, reminding readers that every wagging tail brings connection, laughter, and everyday moments worth cherishing.
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