"I ordered these in red online to wear with a formal gown. These shoes are gorgeous! The heel is about 4.25" with about a .25" platform in the front (I measured :)). They are not uncomfortable - compared to most of the heels I have of a similar height. I added gel insoles being that I would be wearing them for an extended period. I ordered a size 8, which is my normal shoe size, and they fit my foot perfectly. My only critique is that the crystal embellishments are glued on and 2 popped off in the back of the ankle strap while I was putting them on but luckily you cannot tell. I had no other issues with crystals popping off throughout my evening of partying. I suggest not manhandling these shoes and try to store them in the box to preserve them. I look forward to wearing these again and wish they came in more colors."