How High is that Heel?

I've often been asked how high a heel is, and just how exactly does one measure the height?? And what if the shoe has a high platform? Does the platform count as part of the heel height or is it in addition to the heel?

So, here are a few quick tips:

Measurement:
Measure the heel itself along the side of the heel, up to where it meets the sole; measurements are not exact since the number is rounded down to the nearest quarter inch. Usually, heels are measured from a size 8.5 shoe and it will vary a bit based on the size you wear.


Platform: The height of the platform is not in addition to the height of the heel.

What's flat, low or high?
Flat: 0-.5 inch
Low heel: 1-1.5 inch
Mid heel: 2-2.5 inch
High heel: 3-3.5 inch
Ultra high: 4 inch or taller