FROM THE DESIGNER

Behind the Design: Lainey & Lorena Kitten Heels

 

shoe designers with kitten heels and fabric swatches

 

Ever wonder what it's like to design this season's must-have shoes? From trend research to sketches to samples, LifeStride’s new Design Director Tague Austin and her team puts their passion for must-have style and comfort into every pair.

 

Here, Tague takes us behind the design of our new modern-meets-vintage kitten heels: the Lainey and Lorena. As part of LifeStride’s 85th anniversary collection, these sleek kitten heels are built with modern features like Soft System comfort technology and an on-trend block heel shape along with classic, retro styling that gives them a classic vintage feel.

What makes these kitten heels special?

“For the Lainey and Lorena, we wanted to build on the very hot kitten heel trend while giving them a classic, vintage feel. The flat-edge block heel that’s less than 1.5 inches makes them modern and wearable, while the sleek, softly pointed toe and minimal strap detailing gives it a timeless look. Plus, Soft System comfort technology makes them incredibly flexible and supportive for easy movement all day long.”

How would you recommend styling them?

“When it comes to styling the Lainey and Lorena, you really can’t find a more versatile heel. Dressed up enough for the office but comfortable enough for every day, the heel height and timeless design makes them endlessly wearable. I love pairing them with a vintage-feeling denim dress or with a chic shorts and blazer look.”

Related Posts:

From the designer

Danielle’s Must-Have Spring Shoes for 2025

Events

Celebrating 85 Years of LifeStride

From the designer

Behind the Design: Spring Platform Sneakers