My Colleague and I Never Agree on Shoe Trends, But This Ageless Style Has Both of Us Hooked

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:

Shop the Best Mid-Range Slingback Heels:

Shop the Best Designer Slingback Heels: