As a teen, I longed for opportunities to dress up. In my mind, adulthood would mean building up a Carrie Bradshaw-worthy shoe collection of towering stilettos that I would wear every day. But by the time I entered my twenties, comfort and street style were the predominant trends, and that meant that heels were out, and trainers were in. Even today, classic heel-less styles like ballet flats and loafers continue to be top trends, alongside a rotation of must-have trainers from adidas Sambas to New Balance 550s.
Perhaps its the revival of Nineties nostalgia, or perhaps it's a Brat summer-inspired desire to embrace the joy of going out, but I've noticed that heels are creeping back into the fashion set's rotation. From sleek pointed-toe patent stilettos to strappy barely-there sandals, the heel has returned with a renewed energy. But for me, if I'm going to invest in a heeled shoe, I want it to be a style that'll last. And in my opinion, the classic design that will always be in vogue is the slingback heel.
And it turns out even my fussiest colleague agrees with me! We never agree on shoe trends, but there's something about a slingback heel that feels so effortlessly elegant. Paired with jeans or a flouncy skirt, it elevates the look while still somehow feeling more understated that a classic stiletto. But styled with an evening dress or suit, it lends the whole outfit a refined, classic vibe that I always aspire to.
So, if you're looking to join my colleague and I in the slingback heel movement, you're in luck—I've sourced the very best options for every budget, as well as outfit inspiration from those whose looks I always aspire to recreate. Scroll on for more...
How to Wear Slingback Heels in 2024:
The pointed toe slingbacks complete the polished aesthetic of this red ensemble.
Slingback heels don't have to be simple—I'm obsessed with Anouk's snakeskin heels, and how they add even more texture to this cosy autumn look.
Not into the stiletto? Embrace the French style of a block-heeled Mary Jane, which can instantly elevate a simple jeans and shirt outfit.
Annabel's outfit is a brilliant example of how to use slingback heels to embrace the leopard print trend.
No one does Nineties-inspired evening glamour like Camille.
Shop the Best Slingback Heels, According to a Fashion Editor:
Shop the Best High-Street Slingback Heels:
& Other Stories
Slingback Leather Pumps
Mint Velvet
Burgundy Patent Slingback Kitten Heels
M&S Collection
Kitten Heel Pointed Slingback Shoes
An easy heel for every day wear.
ZARA
Buckled Slingback Shoes
The buckle detail really ups the Nineties vibe.
MANGO
Slingback Heeled Shoes With Buckle
Another great Nineties-inspired option.
Massimo Dutti
Backless Heeled Shoes
Yes to this whole outfit.
H&M
Slingback Court Shoes
So elegant for such a great price.
COS
Pointed Mesh Slingback Kitten Heels
These mesh heels would add such a cool edge to a tailored look.
MANGO
Leopard-Print Heeled Shoes
Leopard print is going to be everywhere this season.
& Other Stories
Pointed Slingback Pumps
A brown satin heel? Yes please.
Shop the Best Mid-Range Slingback Heels:
Reformation
Noreen Slingback Pump
These also come in cherry red.
TOTEME
The Sharp Croc-Effect Leather Slingback Pumps
Toteme always delivers my dream minimalist footwear.
Reformation
Whitnee Slingback Heels
The mesh heel is subtly sexy in the best way.
Arket
Slingback Leather Pumps
I love this deep burgundy tone, which is so on trend this season.
STUART WEITZMAN
Naomi Leather Slingback Pumps
A nude heel is a wardrobe must-have.
Reformation
Maddox Slingback Heel
This slingback block heel will work in all seasons.
AEYDE
Elise Suede Slingback Sandals
A black strappy heel is my evening go-to.
Sam Edelman
Bianka Polka Dot Pointed Slingback Courts
STUART WEITZMAN
Tully Bow-Detailed Leather Point-Toe Slingback Pumps
This would also be a great option for brides-to-be...
NEOUS
Irena Lace-Trimmed Crepe De Chine Slingback Pumps
The lace trim on these makes them a true standout.
Shop the Best Designer Slingback Heels:
AMINA MUADDI
Camelia Crystal-Embellished Satin Slingback Pumps
Top of my party shoe wish list.
SAINT LAURENT
Oxalis Leather-Trimmed Mesh Slingback Pumps
Understatedly sexy, these will never go out of style.
NEOUS
Baten Metallic Leather Slingback Pumps
This is perfect for festive party season.
AQUAZZURA
Ginza 35 Croc-Effect Leather Slingback Pumps
A designer version of the Reformation pair.
GIANVITO ROSSI
Nuit 55 Leopard-Print Glossed-Leather Slingback Pumps
I told you leopard print would be everywhere this autumn.
MANOLO BLAHNIK
Carolyn 50 Elaphe Slingback Pumps
Use these to recreate Anouk's outfit.
ISABEL MARANT
Piery Mirrored-Leather Slingback Pumps
I'm obsessed with these mirrored silver heels.
Gucci
Gucci Signoria Slingback Pump
The contrast of the very on-trend red with the gold hardware is deliciously good.
KHAITE
Roosevelt Crystal-Embellished Suede Slingback Pumps
These are more than ready for party season.
Jimmy Choo
Amel 50 Suede Pumps
I just love this suede pair.
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