Best 70s Heels: Our Top 32 Picks for Retro Chic

Heels from the 1970s represent a distinctive era in footwear design, characterized by bold statement pieces that combined comfort with flair. These shoes blend retro styling with modern comfort features, making them a practical addition to any footwear collection.

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Reviews

Garbo Princess Polly Boot

These brown faux leather boots bring serious 70s style to your wardrobe with their mid-calf length, zip side fastening, and towering 4.7-inch block heel. The platform base and rounded toe add serious height while keeping you comfortable, thanks to the quality PU upper and textile lining. The rubber EVA outsole provides solid grip, making these boots both fashionable and practical for everyday wear.

Kia Boots: Black US 7

These stylish black boots combine 70s-inspired design with modern comfort, featuring a chunky heel that adds height without sacrificing stability. The sleek leather construction and classic square toe make them a versatile wardrobe addition that pairs well with both dresses and jeans. While some users note the slightly higher heel and tight fit around the calves, the majority praise their comfort and durability, with many reporting no break-in period needed.

1970s Red Platform Mary Jane Heels

These 1970s-style red platform Mary Janes combine impressive height with bold vintage appeal, though their 7.75-inch total height makes them less than practical for everyday wear. The adjustable rectangular buckle adds a touch of sophistication to the otherwise imposing footwear, while the synthetic leather gives them a modern twist on classic platform design.

70s High Heels Gold

These 70s-inspired gold heels stand out with their high heel design. With no specific product specs to go on, we can only assume they deliver on the classic style and comfort you'd expect from a well-crafted pair of vintage-inspired footwear.

1970s Red Velvet Platform Heels

These vintage-inspired platform heels combine elegant red velvet with modern comfort features like adjustable ankle straps and a substantial 5.5-inch block heel. At just 2.25 pounds, the lightweight design makes them surprisingly practical for all-day wear, while the 1.5-inch platform provides necessary height without sacrificing stability. The cross vamp design adds a touch of Seventies flair that's both stylish and practical.

Rainbow High 70s Shoes

Our 70s-inspired high heel brings vintage glamour forward with its metallic leather and vibrant rainbow straps. The open square toe and PVC ankle strap add a modern twist to this classic Italian design, while the clear plexi heel keeps the look light and playful. The gold leather lining and Italian soles ensure comfort, making these more than just a stylish statement piece.

Fuchsia High Heels: Disco-Inspired 70s Shoes

These fuchsia high heels bring the disco vibe back with their retro design and comfy construction. The adjustable ankle strap keeps them secure while you dance, and the cushioned insole means you can boogie all night long. Whether you're dressed up as a 70's icon or just love the color, these shoes will turn heads at any party.

Gwendolyn 70s Platform Heels

These 70s-inspired platform ankle strap heels bring vintage glamour to modern footwear with their six available colors. Standing tall at 6 inches, these super high heels combine retro style with contemporary comfort.

Retro 70s Platform Pumps SD00806

These retro 70s pumps come in a range of vibrant colors from black to yellow, with a playful 1.5-inch platform providing a little height while keeping comfort in mind. The 4-inch heel adds a touch of vintage flair without sacrificing wearability.

Maeve Yellow Sandals Size 11

At first glance, these yellow Maeve sandals seem perfectly crafted for a sunny day out - the leather upper and rubber sole give them a classic 70s vibe, while the thin straps add a touch of elegance. Their design is unfortunately a bit too focused on style: reviewers complained about straps that cut off circulation and rubbing that left marks on their feet. While they look fantastic, wearers have described them as "unbearable to walk in" due to the rigid sole and tight straps.

Nordstrom Autumn Sandal

Add some vintage flair to your summer wardrobe with these70s-inspired ivory sandals. The adjustable strap system keeps them comfy for all-day wear, while the modest 3-inch heel lets you stride confidently. The clean white leather design pairs perfectly with both casual and dressy outfits.

70s Platform Moccasins

Handcrafted black and cognac brown moccasins featuring signature 1970s platforms with an almond toe and chrome accent. The soft leather construction pairs premium comfort with towering height, while the foam-lined insoles and classic natural leather finish create a timeless addition to any shoe collection.

Everlane City Boot in Sand Suede

These city boots combine vintage 70s style with modern comfort, featuring an interior zipper and Nappa leather pull tab for easy wear. The reconstituted suede outsole and welt, sourced from a sustainable LWG Gold-certified tannery, blend classic aesthetics with eco-conscious craftsmanship. The practical 10.5 size ensures a flattering fit for most women's feet.

Nectarine Dreams Brown/Orange Suede Platform Shoes

These brown and orange suede platform heels combine vintage flair with practical comfort. The lightweight construction and secure ankle wraps make them surprisingly easy to walk in, while the padded insole and open-toe design keep your feet happy all day long. The retro floral pattern adds a touch of 70's charm to any outfit, whether you're dressing up for a special occasion or just running errands in style.

1970s Red Floral Platform Heels Size 8

These vibrant red platform heels bring 1970s flair to any outfit, with their playful crisscross straps and peep toe design. Standing tall at 3.5 inches with an extra 1 inch platform, they're comfortable enough for active wear while keeping you stylishly elevated. The detailed knot front adds a charming touch to these otherwise sleek heels that run slightly small, so sizing up is recommended.

Famolare Hi There Leather Wedge Heels

These vintage-inspired wedge heels combine sustainable materials with retro design. The premium leather strap detail, complete with three adjustable buckles and a secure backstrap, gives these 7-inch platforms both style and support. The recyclable rubber outsole provides reliable grip, while the padded leather insole ensures all-day comfort for your collection of vintage-inspired footwear.

Ae Crochet Slingback Sandal

These vegan suede crocheted women's sandals have won over reviewers with their comfort and style. The adjustable slingback strap and open toe design keep feet cool and free while the rubber outsole provides just the right amount of grip. Thanks to their lightweight construction and supportive arch design, these sandals prove themselves as both fashionable and practical footwear.

Gianvito Rossi Vernice 70 Patent Leather Platform Pumps

These black patent leather platform pumps combine vintage '60s and '70s styling with modern comfort through their towering block heels and sturdy platforms. The attention to detail shines through the logo-embossed buckle ankle strap that keeps them securely in place while you strut in comfort. The sleek patent finish adds that extra touch of sophistication to your wardrobe, perfect for pairing with both mini dresses and flared pants to complete your look.

Ae Black Women's Sandals

These black triple-strap sandals have a classic 70s feel thanks to their vegan leather upper and open-toe design. The adjustable buckle closures let you customize the fit perfectly, while the rubber outsole provides just the right amount of grip. The reviewer found them a bit roomy, so you might want to size down if you're between sizes.

Cape Robbin Bow Heels

Add a touch of retro disco glamour to your wardrobe with these chunky block heels. The metallic silver mirror ball design and elegant bow tie create a striking focal point, while the ultra-soft insoles and generous square toe design ensure all-day comfort you won't expect from heels. The rubber sole provides excellent grip, making these disco shoes suitable for both formal events and casual daytime wear.

Suzanne Rae High Heel Sandal

This 70s-inspired metallic grey high heel pairs vintage charm with modern comfort. Its open square toe and adjustable ankle strap offer a customizable fit, while Italian leather construction adds an elegant touch to the retro design.

Women's Peach 03 T-Strap Heel

These vintage-inspired women's heels blend style and comfort with their 3-inch platform design and padded PU insole. The tri-color t-strap creates a striking visual effect while the adjustable buckle ensures a secure fit. Runners should consider sizing up as these shoes tend to run small, but once fitted, they provide excellent support for both day and evening wear.

getmorebeauty Vintage Heeled Sandals

These vintage-inspired heeled sandals deliver a perfect balance of style and comfort with their 3.15-inch block heel and classic peep toe design. The suede upper adds a touch of luxury, while the rubber sole provides stability during your summer stride. The adjustable T-strap and buckle closure ensure a secure fit, making these 70s-inspired beauties ideal for dressy occasions or casual outings.

Dolce Vita Sirus Heels

These black leather heels draw inspiration from 1970s fashion with a chunky heel and loafer-like silhouette. The contrast edge and metal buckles add a distinctive touch, while the slingback strap keeps them comfortable for all-day wear. The 3.5-inch heel height pairs perfectly with your favorite jeans for a vintage-inspired look.

Shoe'N Tale Chunky Block Heeled Sandals

These chunky block heels combine vintage 70s style with modern comfort, featuring a supportive cushioned insole and adjustable metal buckle for secure ankle support. The strappy design adds an elegant touch to the approximately 3.5-inch height, while the leather construction keeps them durable and stylish for any special occasion.

Crown Velerie Pump

These vintage-inspired pumps blend classic elegance with a touch of 70s flair, though their block heel provides more support than style alone. While the caramelo brown leather develops a lovely patina over time, many reviewers have found them uncomfortably stiff and constraining, with some reporting painful blisters after just an hour of wear. If you have narrow feet or low tolerance for stiff footwear, proceed with caution – these shoes have earned both loves and fierce haters in equal measure.

Vintage 70s Cherry Deer Platform Heels

Combining vintage charm with modern comfort, these kawaii deer heels blend 70s retro prints with high-quality vegan leather construction. The three-dimensional design adds a whimsical touch to these luxury platform shoes, perfect for completing any lolita-inspired outfit.

ASOS Design Tech Sandals

These black tech sandals from ASOS Design combine vintage 70s style with modern comfort features. The adjustable strap system and adhesive fastening make them easy to put on, while the open toe and cushioned molded footbed keep your feet happy during wear. The chunky sole adds both height and retro flair to your stride.

70s Pointed Toe Block Heels

These 70s-inspired heels combine a flattering pointed toe with a comfortable block heel that stands about 3-4 inches tall. The ankle strap adds a stylish touch while keeping your feet secure. The high-quality construction and comfortable fit make these pumps suitable for both dressy occasions and casual wear.

Retro Stage Sky Blue 70s Bow T-Straps

These vintage-inspired sky blue bow-strap heels from the 70s bring a touch of retro charm to your footwear collection. The artificial leather upper adds a modern twist to the classic design, while the T-strap style and buckled closure ensure a secure, stylish fit. If you have wider feet, it's a good idea to size up to ensure comfortable wear.

70s Criss-Cross Leather Sandals

These chunky leather sandals combine vintage 70s style with modern comfort, thanks to their adjustable criss-cross straps and 2cm rubbersole. The durable construction and cork footbed deliver all-day wearability, while the distinctive green hue adds a pop of visual appeal to any outfit.

Club Exx Interstellar Wave Platform Boots

Fashion-forward club footwear combining vegan leather construction with practical treaded soles and adjustable velcro closures for a customized fit. The block heel design adds height while keeping you comfortable during extended wear. Side zippers offer convenient access to the roomy toe box, which pairs well with the boots' slightly roomy fit that can be snugly adjusted thanks to the velcro straps.

Buyer's Guide

70s Heels represent a vibrant addition to any footwear collection, embodying both timeless style and bold inspiration from one of fashion's most iconic decades. Understanding the key aspects of these heels will help you select a pair that captures the essence of 70s design while ensuring comfort and durability.

Style Elements

The best 70s heels incorporate distinctive features from the era, including high platforms, chunky heels, and intricate embellishments. Look for styles with wide, squared toes and detailed elements like beading, fringes, or geometric patterns. These design elements should complement your personal style while staying true to the vintage aesthetic.

Comfort Considerations

While the style elements are crucial, comfort shouldn't be overlooked. Opt for heels with quality craftsmanship and proper support. The platform height should be stable and reasonable for daily wear, with a solid heel base rather than a narrow, pointy toe box. Proper arch support and cushioning will make these striking heels wearable for longer periods.

Material Quality

Classic 70s heel materials include rich leather, suede, and metallic finishes. Quality construction uses stitching that doesn't fray and heels that maintain their shape over time. The soles should be made from durable rubber or non-slip materials to prevent accidents. Premium materials not only enhance durability but also contribute to a more comfortable wear experience.

Maintenance Requirements

Understanding how to care for your 70s heels ensures they remain in excellent condition. Look for heels with minimal exposed stitching that's easier to clean and maintain. Shoes with removable insoles are practical for regular cleaning and replacement. Consider protective footwear bags or special shoe trees to maintain their shape when not in use.

FAQ

What distinguishes authentic 70s heels from modern reproductions?

Authentic 70s heels combine detailed craftsmanship with specific design elements characteristic of the era. Look for components like handmade leather construction, padded footbeds, and classic silhouettes such as platforms and wedge heels.

Modern reproductions often prioritize comfort over historical accuracy, incorporating features like adjustable straps and modern cushioning technologies. Authentic reproductions typically maintain the original height and heel angles of the vintage models.

How should I care for vintage 70s heels?

Vintage 70s heels require regular maintenance to preserve their condition. Clean them gently with a soft cloth and mild soap, avoiding harsh chemicals that can damage the leather. Apply a conditioning cream specifically designed for leather to maintain suppleness and prevent cracking.

Store your vintage heels in a cool, dry place with good ventilation to prevent mold and mildew growth. Consider using heel trees or soft cloths to maintain their shape when not in use.

What are the most common sizing issues with vintage 70s heels?

Vintage 70s heels often come in European sizing, which may differ from modern US and UK sizing charts. Common sizes range from 35 to 40, equating to US women's sizes 5-9. It's advisable to consult specific sizing charts for the brand and style you're considering.

If you find your vintage heels too narrow or wide, consider consulting a professional cobbler who can perform custom modifications. Regularly worn vintage heels may stretch slightly over time, allowing for a better fit.

How can I determine if a 70s heel is authentic?

Examine the heel's construction details for signs of authenticity. Hand-stitching, uneven wear patterns, and original packaging are strong indicators that a heel is vintage rather than modern reproduction. Look for unique wear characteristics that suggest regular use over time.

Research the specific brand's style guide for distinguishing features of their vintage collection. Authentic pieces typically show consistent quality craftsmanship across all components, from the leather finish to the heel base.

What materials were commonly used in 70s heel construction?

Vintage 70s heels were constructed using a variety of materials typical of the era. Common leather finishes included patent leather, suede, and nubuck, often combined with wood, plastic, or synthetic elements for heel bases and midsoles.

Brands frequently used platform soles made from plastic or wood, while cushioning materials included foam and rubber. Authentic reproductions maintain these material choices to preserve the vintage aesthetic.

Are 70s heels comfortable to walk in?

70s heels can be uncomfortable due to their typically high and narrow design. Platform and wedge styles offer more stability than straight heels but may still cause foot fatigue during extended wear. Proper breaking-in and regular rest periods can help reduce discomfort.

Modern reproductions often incorporate additional cushioning and wider toe boxes for improved comfort. If you choose vintage originals, consider wearing them indoors or with heel grips to prevent slipping and improve stability.