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:
Such a versatile heel.
The shade of the season.
An easy heel for every day wear.
The buckle detail really ups the Nineties vibe.
Another great Nineties-inspired option.
Yes to this whole outfit.
So elegant for such a great price.
These mesh heels would add such a cool edge to a tailored look.
Leopard print is going to be everywhere this season.
A brown satin heel? Yes please.
Shop the Best Mid-Range Slingback Heels:
These also come in cherry red.
Toteme always delivers my dream minimalist footwear.
The mesh heel is subtly sexy in the best way.
I love this deep burgundy tone, which is so on trend this season.
A nude heel is a wardrobe must-have.
This slingback block heel will work in all seasons.
A black strappy heel is my evening go-to.
So cute!
This would also be a great option for brides-to-be...
The lace trim on these makes them a true standout.
Shop the Best Designer Slingback Heels:
Top of my party shoe wish list.
Understatedly sexy, these will never go out of style.
This is perfect for festive party season.
A designer version of the Reformation pair.
I told you leopard print would be everywhere this autumn.
Use these to recreate Anouk's outfit.
I'm obsessed with these mirrored silver heels.
The contrast of the very on-trend red with the gold hardware is deliciously good.
These are more than ready for party season.
I just love this suede pair.
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I Thought This Heel Trend Was Dated, But These Celebrity Outfits Just Changed My MindConsider me convinced.
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Black Shoes, Watch Out—This Alternative Color Is Chicer, More Elegant, and Just as ClassicBrown *just might* be the new black.
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My Friend Wants to Elevate Her Wardrobe—I Sent Her These 31 Nordstrom Fall Sale FindsAll have closet-staple status.
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Selena Gomez Just Wore the Elegant Shoes My Petite Colleague Says Looks Best With Wide-Leg PantsA combination to wear on repeat.
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Kate Middleton Paired 2024's Two Biggest It Colors With Winter's Most Coveted Shoe TrendShe's the definition of seasonally appropriate.
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These Chic Finds From Amazon's October Prime Day Feel Very 2025—30 I’m Adding to CartMost are under $50.
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PSA: Selena Gomez's Trendy $120 Jeans Are Still in StockBut not for long.
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That's It—I'm Only Wearing Net Shoes the Pamela Anderson Way This FallPure genius.
