The first time I saw the Jeffrey Campbell Lita, I fell in love. I believe it was at Urban Outfitters ins 2012. I just could not stop thinking about them and knew I had to get a pair. The shoes were named after Lita Ford of The Runaways and developed an almost cult-like following. It seemed like this shoe was very polarizing, you either loved it or hated it. I would say that enough people seemed to love it since a plethora of colors and prints came out in the style. Photo above by Jessica Lam.
Launched in 2010, the Jeffrey Campbell Lita shoes quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Named after 1970s rocker Lita Ford, these platform ankle boots embodied a bold mix of vintage and modern aesthetics. Featuring a towering 5-inch chunky heel, a sturdy 2-inch platform, and a lace-up design, the Litas were unlike anything else on the market at the time.
What set the Litas apart was their versatility. They came in every material, color, and pattern imaginable—leather, suede, glitter, animal print, and even holographic finishes. This diversity allowed them to appeal to a broad spectrum of style personalities, from edgy goths to boho dreamers.
Despite their sky-high appearance, the Litas were surprisingly comfortable. The platform balanced out the heel height, making them wearable for hours (or at least for a night out).
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My first pair was the versatile black leather featuring a wooden heel. Even though the 5″ heel is almost absurdly tall, the 2″ platform in the toe makes these quite comfortable and easy to walk in. Litas typically retails between $160 and $190. and come in literally every color and pattern you can imagine.
The Litas exploded in popularity thanks to fashion bloggers and social media. They became a staple in outfit-of-the-day posts and runway-inspired streetwear looks. Everyone from indie fashionistas to mainstream celebrities was rocking a pair, solidifying their status as a must-have item.
The shoes weren’t just about height—they were a statement. Wearing Litas meant you weren’t afraid to stand out, literally and figuratively. They were bold, confident, and unapologetically over-the-top, embodying the maximalist fashion trends of the early 2010s.
One could say that this shoe is not exactly trendy or “in” right now, but I can’t imagine these shoes not ever fitting my personal style. I love rocking these bad boys in the various patterns I own, including black, silver, galaxy print, and even the Big Lita – a supersized version of the normal Lita. The OG black version is still available and some other fun colors, as well. eBay, Poshmark, and other retail sites are good for finding Litas, as well.
Looking back, the Litas weren’t just shoes; they were a moment. They represented a time when fashion felt fearless, experimental, and just plain fun. They were the perfect mix of dramatic flair and practicality, inspiring countless bold looks and unforgettable memories.
So, here’s to the Jeffrey Campbell Litas—may they always hold a special place in our hearts and on our shelves. If you still have yours, consider giving them a spin for old times’ sake. Who knows? Maybe their next comeback is just around the corner.
What’s your favorite memory of the Litas? Share your thoughts—I’d love to reminisce with you!
