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 last years 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 than 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 2025:
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 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 print 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 braided option.
Another great leopard print.
These 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:
This slingback block heel will work in all seasons.
So cute!
Toteme always delivers my dream minimalist footwear.
I love this tan tone, which is so on trend this season.
These are on my wish-list.
A red heel is a wardrobe must-have.
How chic are these?
These also come in black croc and wine snake print..
This would also be a great option for evening events.
The lace trim on these makes them a true standout.
Shop the Best Designer Slingback Heels:
I mean, so glam.
Understatedly sexy, these will never go out of style.
Metallic shoes have really made a comeback.
A designer version of the Reformation pair.
I'll always trust Amina Muaddi to get slingbacks right.
Use these to recreate Anouk's outfit.
I'm obsessed with these metallic leather heels.
The contrast of the very on-trend red with the gold hardware is deliciously good.
I saw someone wearing these at a wedding recently and I was in awe.
I just love this suede pair.
-
I Swore I'd Never Wear Heels to the Airport, But This Comfy Style Is Surprisingly Travel ApprovedDon't knock it till you try it.
-
Sabrina Carpenter Made Cropped Pants Look So Elegant With This Classic Heel TrendThe perfect combination.
-
Suddenly, All The Row-Style Girls Are Breaking This Fashion RuleAnd you should, too.
-
I Want to Build a New Wardrobe—30 Incredibly Elegant Pieces I'm Eyeing From the Nordstrom Winter SaleBring on the chic outfits.
-
Sorry, Stilettos, But These '90s-Inspired, Prada-Coded Anti-Flats Are Hot on Your TrailConsider me converted.
-
Hailey Bieber Just Wore a Rich Kitten-Heel Trend That's Worth Swapping Flats ForWell, this is new.
-
The Pretty Shoe Trend Celebs Can't Stop Wearing on the Red Carpet in 2025It's no coincidence.
-
I Don't Do Maximalism—6 Quiet Luxury Trends That Are Still Cool in 2025On-trend, not trendy.
