7 Designer Shoes I'm Freaking Over, Plus 28 Affordable Pairs I'm Eyeing

Without a doubt, there’s always one thing I’ll never regret spending money on—ahem, shoes. I can buy into a trend and find it’s not worth the hype, or I can splurge on a pair of jeans only to hate the way they fit my curves, but shoes never disappoint. So, it’s only logical that investing in a pair of designer shoes is never a bad call. Of course, there are endless options of trendy heels and cool sneakers, so where does one even start? Ahead, I’m spilling what seven designer shoes are on my radar, based on which ones have reached cult status on Instagram and which shoe trends I’m betting will be big in the coming months.
If you’re not ready to invest quite yet, I’ve also shared 28 alternative affordable shoes that are just as chic. Either way, I’ve got you covered in the shoe department so you can spend less time stressing about what to buy and more time strutting in your new favorite shoes (thank me later).
Ahh, Attico’s Devon Mule, where do I even begin? While this style isn’t the newest It shoe on the block (it’s been a steadfast part of every influencer’s feed for over a year now), I’m still not over it. It’s the perfect addition to any wardrobe because it comes in various colorways, can be styled with just about anything, and that angled heel is sure to keep you on your toes.
Shop more shoes inspired by this style:
Not only is this mule affordable, but it also comes in five different colorways.
Is it even possible to round up dreamy designer shoes without including Amina Muaddi? Her heels have become beloved by the fashion set for their usage of colors, crystals, and other quirky elements. I can’t think of a better strappy sandal to invest in for spring as they lend themselves to being a sandal you can pull out for seasons to come.
Shop more shoes inspired by this style:
These are perfect for that upcoming wedding.
Not going to lie: When I spotted ballet flats on Miu Miu’s F/W 22 runway, my inner middle schooler was screaming. As much as I love a pair of stilettos, the idea of bringing back ballet flats is equally as appealing as any other footwear trend. Without a doubt these shoes are about to be everywhere, so now’s the time to invest in them.
Shop more shoes inspired by this style:
If Cinderella was shopping for new shoes, I’m guessing Mach & Mach’s iconic double bow pumps would be right up her alley. Jokes aside, these pumps lend themselves well to being invested in for a special occasion (like a wedding). But I dream of popping them on to roll up to my bodega. Does that make me extra? Yes. Do I care? Nope.
Shop more shoes inspired by this style:
Consider this your something blue (but for everyday life).
I didn’t even know I needed pleated bow shoes in my life until I saw these.
Are we over the Prada Spazzolato Logo Leather Loafers? For me, it’s a no. I can’t get enough of these shoes no matter how often I spot them in my feed. When it comes to making an *actually* practical shoe purchase, these fit the bill perfectly since they’re timeless, versatile, and downright comfortable.
Shop more shoes inspired by this style:
Versace rose to the level of notoriety it has today in the late ’90s, so it only makes sense that the luxury house has been turning heads again for the beloved shoe trend of the era: platforms. Not a day goes by that I don’t think about Versace’s Medusa Platform Pumps—they are literal perfection. Plus, if I’m going out, it better be with a pair of platforms on.
Shop more shoes inspired by this style:
Just when you thought platforms couldn't be trendier, Zara made these beauties in Kelly green.
Last but not least, the one pair of shoes I find myself obsessing over the most is Loewe’s Broken Egg Sandals. I should note that talking about these shoes is like walking on eggshells because I’m waiting for them to be restocked, and my partner continually tells me I don’t need them. Alas, here I am dreaming of them. And while all of Loewe’s S/S 22 footwear is fabulous, I’ll be hatching a plan to get my hands on these babies.
Shop more shoes inspired by this style:
Next: 5 Strappy Sandals I'm Predicting Will Be Everywhere This Spring
Jasmine Fox-Suliaman is a freelance writer and editor living in New York City. What began as a pastime (blogging on Tumblr) transformed into a lifelong passion for unveiling the connection between fashion and culture on the internet and in real life. Over the last decade, she's melded her extensive edit and social background to various on-staff positions at Who What Wear, MyDomaine, and Byrdie. More recently, she’s become a freelance contributor to other publications including Vogue, Editorialist, and The Cut. Off the clock, you can find her clutching her cell phone as she's constantly scrolling through TikTok and The RealReal, in search of the next cool thing.
-
Suddenly, Every Classy Fashion Person in Paris Is Wearing This Elegant Heeled-Shoe Trend
A fresh take on classic Mary Janes.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Simone Ashley Is in the Fast Lane
Since her breakout role in Bridgerton, our Spring Issue cover star has quickly risen to A-list status. Up next, she masters the rom-com leading lady.
By Liv Little
-
Lila Moss Just Wore the Prada Bag Everyone Wants But No One Can Find
It's so cute.
By Drew Elovitz
-
Wait—Did Elsa Hosk Just Intro the New It Bag of 2025?
One word: Prada.
By Allyson Payer
-
Prada's Idea of Unfinished Glamour Will Overtake Elegance This Fall
The messier the better, in fact.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
Olivia Rodrigo and French Women Are All Over This Romantic Spring Shoe Trend in 2025
It's low-key controversial.
By Ana Escalante
-
Jennifer Lawrence Just Wore the Pretty It Sneakers No One Will Be Able to Keep in Stock
Ballet-inspired luxury sneakers, that is.
By Allyson Payer
-
My Word of 2025 Is "Sophisticated," and These 34 Pieces Are the Definition
Think structured bags, hourglass shapes, and classic tailoring.
By Caitlin Burnett
-
Treating Yourself? What to Buy From the New Designer Collections Before They Sell Out
I'm kind of a pro at this.
By Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour
-
I'm Refining My Wardrobe—36 Staples I'm Eyeing for 2025
Polished is the word.
By Caitlin Burnett