Guide to Vintage Style Shoes Heel Heights

Handmade with ethically sourced European components in Spain. Worldwide shipping from Austria
Updated October 2026

Do you have a preferred heel height when it comes to shoes? Vintage style shoes come in a variety of heel heights, so no matter your preference, there is a timeless silhouette in a height you’ll love!

Vintage style shoes in any heel height add elegance and flair to your wardrobe, no matter your personal aesthetic. Flats give feet a sturdy, grounded base for daily strolling and social gatherings, while mid-to-high heels offer that extra bit of drama and sophisticated posture.

Not sure which vintage style shoe heel height is right for you? Read on for our complete guide to Saint Savoy footwear, listed in order from lowest to highest heel profile:

Low & Flat Heel Profiles (1.0 cm – 1.5 cm / 0.39 in – 0.59 in)

If you prefer to keep your heel height on the lower side, flat profiles are your best bet. Combining classic 1920s through 1950s design with ultimate everyday comfort, our vintage style flats offer the best of both worlds!

PONY & PONY AIR (1.0 cm / 0.39 in)
For those who want an ultra-light option that bridges the gap between classic design and modern casual wear, the PONY AIR is a stand-out choice. This retro dance sneaker combines fine, supple leather with a flexible brushed leather sole and a cushioned footbed. Designed with a sleek 1.0 cm / 0.39 in heel profile, SAINT SAVOY eyelets, and remarkable ground sensitivity, the PONY gives you total freedom of movement while effortlessly complementing your favorite everyday street style.

SCOOTER (1.2 cm / 0.47 in)
An authentic 1930s-inspired slip-on flat, the SCOOTER brings effortless retro charm to your daily wardrobe. Built on a flexible natural rubber sole with a 1.2 cm / 0.47 in heel profile, this versatile loafer provides gentle cushioning and excellent traction on all surfaces. Crafted in Europe using premium oxhide leather or eco-friendly textile variations in our vegan line (SCOOTER ECÒ), it delivers lightweight comfort, durable support, and classic vintage flair.

GRAND PRIX (1.5 cm / 0.59 in)
Our GRAND PRIX is a comfortable and stylish flat. At a height of 1.5 cm / 0.59 in, these double-strap flats have a dapper but relaxed flair. The GRAND PRIX is great for those who want to make sure their feet are comfortable and securely contained. The beautiful double T-strap holds your foot in place while the padded insole cradles your step!

PENNY LOAFERS – Classic & Soft (1.5 cm / 0.59 in)
Bringing the iconic 1930s college shoe into the modern wardrobe, our unisex PENNY LOAFERS combine timeless casual sophistication with high-performance footwear engineering. Built with a low 1.5 cm / 0.59 in heel, light footbed padding, a soft rounded toe box, and our signature shock-absorbing rubber layer in the heel, these versatile flats keep you comfortable through long days on your feet. They are available in two options:

  • PENNY LOAFER Classic: Crafted with sturdy, structured oxhide leather that holds a crisp, polished shape and breaks in beautifully over time for a tailored look.
  • PENNY LOAFER Soft: Made from ultra-supple, flexible leather designed for incredible out-of-the-box comfort, requiring zero break-in time.

RIBBON BALLERINA (1.5 cm / 0.59 in)
Inspired by vintage flat slippers and designed in collaboration with Shirin Altsohn, the RIBBON BALLERINA features a subtle 1.5 cm / 0.59 in hidden wedge elevation. Crafted in kid suede with customizable ribbon ties, ultra-soft antiperspirant padding, and a durable hard rubber sole, it adds a touch of romantic elegance to any outfit.

RIVIERA FLAT (1.5 cm / 0.59 in)
Our RIVIERA FLAT brings the sophistication of a classic vintage T-strap to an accessible 1.5 cm / 0.59 in heel. These shoes are truly versatile, featuring a generous forefoot fit, high vertical toe room, a brushed leather sole, cushy insole, and excellent shock absorption to make your feet feel as good as they look.

Low to Mid-Heel Profiles (2.0 cm – 3.5 cm / 0.79 in – 1.38 in)

Need a subtle boost with maximum stability? Low-to-mid heel options provide an elegant silhouette while maintaining exceptional foot support.

CATNIP (2.0 cm / 0.79 in)
An elegant blend of playful vintage style and low-heel practicality, the CATNIP features a subtle 2.0 cm / 0.79 in heel, soft 4-ply padding, and a generous fit. Its design highlights include colour-backed perforations and a charming heart-shaped toe cutout fastened with a delicate ribbon, giving you lightfooted support all day long.

EL DORADO (2.0 cm / 0.79 in)
A full-brogue classic with royal perforated details, the EL DORADO stands at a comfortable 2.0 cm / 0.79 in heel profile. Built on a springy poly sole with pliant cowhide leather and a removable footbed, it provides superior impact absorption and royal flair.

RUGCUTTER (2.0 cm / 0.79 in)
The RUGCUTTER is an attractive unisex Derby Cap Toe with a robust 2.0 cm / 0.79 in heel profile. This shoe is the epitome of comfort, featuring our innovative 3-ply TPU sole and a padded, leather-sheathed removable insole that makes walking and moving feel weightless.

THE WHIP (2.0 cm / 0.79 in)
Standing at 2.0 cm / 0.79 in, THE WHIP is a longwing brogue with Derby lacing crafted from fine Italian leather. Featuring an integrated shock-absorbing layer in the heel and a floor-tested brushed leather sole, these elegant shoes are timeless handcrafted allrounders.

FRESHY (3.5 cm / 1.38 in)
For those who want a gentle lift with the casual feel of a lightweight shoe, the FRESHY delivers retro charm on a soft 3.5 cm / 1.38 in wedge heel. Featuring a wide adjustable sling-back strap, chrome-free kid leather lining, extra footbed padding, and a brushed leather sole, it is built for effortless, all-day ease.

RIVIERA Classic (3.5 cm / 1.38 in)
Our popular RIVIERA model is a favorite for a reason! With a sturdy mid-heel height of 3.5 cm / 1.38 in and a 1920s T-strap design, this shoe is perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions. These heels have a wide base to ensure your feet stay well-supported, accompanied by soft footbed cushioning and excellent shock absorption.

Mid to Elevated Heel Profiles (4.0 cm – 6.0 cm / 1.57 in – 2.36 in)

Looking for shoes that give you an attention-grabbing boost? Our medium and high heels deliver classic vintage refined shapes paired with modern ergonomic stability.

EDEN (4.0 cm / 1.57 in)
The EDEN features a 4.0 cm / 1.57 in sturdy heel, an alluring peep toe, and a striking asymmetric design. All EDEN shoes have a secure ankle strap, specialized heel-and-toe footbed padding, and a spacious toe box to give your feet plenty of breathing room.

CINEMA (4.0 cm / 1.57 in)
A vintage classic featuring airy cutout perforations and an elegant central cross-strap layout, the CINEMA rests on a 4.0 cm / 1.57 in heel. Crafted in soft kid and suede leathers with a padded insole, it offers secure, continuous comfort.

MODULORA (4.0 cm / 1.57 in)
Co-developed with master orthopaedic shoemaker Josef Baumgartner, the MODULORA combines barefoot-inspired health engineering with a 4.0 cm / 1.57 in heel. Featuring a wide toe box for natural alignment, two adjustable buckle straps, and a removable padded footbed (allowing for custom orthotics), it supports foot health without compromising style.

MODEL 7 (4.5 cm / 1.77 in)
Deeply feminine, the MODEL 7 stands on a 4.5 cm / 1.77 in heel and features delicate wrap-around straps. Built with soft leather and thick footbed padding from heel to toe, its cut is specially engineered to accommodate wider or sensitive feet comfortably.

TONIC (5.0 cm / 1.97 in)
Standing at a refined medium heel height of 5.0 cm / 1.97 in, the TONIC is one of our most exceptionally comfortable models. Designed with a roomy cut that gently nestles even wider feet, it features a cushy footbed, a sturdy ankle strap, and a robust heel base that keeps your feet secure and supported through long days and lively nights.

JITTERDOLL (5.0 cm / 1.97 in)
Capturing authentic 1930s swing-era glamour, the JITTERDOLL rests on a sturdy, centered 5.0 cm / 1.97 in heel. Featuring eye-catching multi-strap geometry, supple European leathers, soft internal footbed cushioning, and a floor-tested brushed leather sole, it delivers remarkable foot containment and effortlessly graceful posture for any occasion.

HIGHBALL (5.0 cm / 1.97 in)
Taking inspiration from 1930s footwear, the HIGHBALL rests on a 5.0 cm / 1.97 in heel. Its eye-catching woven leather bands and adjustable lacing make it suitable for an assortment of foot shapes, including wider feet, while built-in gentle cushioning keeps you comfortable for hours.

WEST (5.0 cm / 1.97 in)
The WEST is a striking 1930s-style heel that stands at 5.0 cm / 1.97 in tall. Its decorative peepholes add allure while letting your feet breathe. A simple cut, soft insole, center T-strap, and solid centered heel base cradle your foot effortlessly.

MINA (5.0 cm / 1.97 in)
A timeless 1930s–1940s silhouette, the MINA features a 5.0 cm / 1.97 in heel crafted in soft goat leather. A classic T-strap with hidden elastic inserts provides flexibility across the instep without sacrificing supportive structure.

Vintage reproduction authentic vintage style ladies shoe, dance shoe, wedding shoe, lindy hop, swing dance, Balboa shoe

RIVIERA HIGH (5.0 cm / 1.97 in)
The RIVIERA HIGH is the elevated version of our signature T-strap model, standing at 5.0 cm / 1.97 in. Featuring a high-set ankle strap and a broad heel base, it offers exceptional poise, stability, and elegance for formal events or dancing.

GRACE (6.0 cm / 2.36 in)
Our highest elevated heel is the GRACE, standing proudly at 6.0 cm / 2.36 in tall. Inspired by 1930s and 1940s pinup glamour, these gorgeous heels ensure maximum comfort through extensive footbed cushioning, exceptional European craftsmanship, and a sturdy, supportive heel base.

 

Whether you prefer flats, high heels, or something in between, there is a vintage style shoe tailored to your height preference and wardrobe needs.

Wondering how to style all these different heel profiles? Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for style inspiration, product updates, and more!

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