Slingback Shoes Are Taking Over—4 Styles to Try

published 8 February 2024

As shoe trends go, this season's selection is looking more enticing than most. With minimalist kitten heels, sleek pointed-toe styles, and classic Mary Janes leading from the front, we dedicated fashion devotees are enduring a season full of temptation. Championing those classic silhouettes that have served us for so long, 2024's chicest shoes have versatility, minimalism, and ageless appeal at their core.

With these key themes driving the trends, it's no wonder that certain styles are rising up above others. Of these new-season pairs, there's one I keep seeing all over the streets of London and Paris that I can't shake from my mind. With a focus on clean lines and enduring appeal, we're entering into the season of the slingback, and influencers, stylists, and fashion people are on board for the ride.

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With a sleek silhouette that curves around the ball of the foot before sharpening into a pointed toe or tapering into a neat oval, these elegant shoes contain all of the refined charm of the classic styles that we came to love in the '90s. Enhancing the appeal, the slingback itself injects a subtly flirty edge, carefully adhering to the back of the heel, thus offering both light support and a noteworthy detail.

Thirty years on from its initial reign, the shoe style returned all over the spring 2024 runway collections and was featured heavily at Gucci and Saint Laurent.

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While the slingback is a trend we're backing through and through, there are a few particular styles that are especially capturing our attention right now. From kitten-heel slingbacks to buckle-embellished styles, read on to discover our edit of the best slingback shoes to shop now.

4 SLINGBACK SHOE TRENDS TO TRY

1. KITTEN-HEEL SLINGBACKS

Reformation

Walker Slingback Heel

These also come in brown and black.

& Other Stories

Slingback Leather Pumps

The kitten heel is one of the biggest footwear trends of the season.

H&M

Textured Slingbacks

The tweed fabric makes these look all the more expensive.

2. FLAT SLINGBACKS

Vagabond Shoemakers

Hermine Pointed Toe Slingback Flat

Style with baggy jeans or a billowy skirt for some super-chic spring looks.

Toteme

The Sharp Slingback Flat

These elegant flats have all the charm of a high heel without any of the discomfort.

Gucci

GG Slingback Ballet Flat

These party-ready flats are at the top of my wish list.

3. BLACK SLINGBACKS

H&M

Pointed Slingback Pumps

You can never go wrong with a classic black slingback.

Paris Texas

Croc-Effect Leather Slingback Sandals

The square peep toe adds a sexy edge.

Prada

Patent Leather Slingback Pumps

Another sexy, sleek pair. Prada knows a good shoe.

4. BUCKLE-DETAIL SLINGBACKS

Steve Madden

Liana Patent Slingback Pointed Toe Low Heel

Across both affordably priced and designer shops, brands are embracing the playful appeal of a subtle buckle detail.

Steve Madden

Legaci Kitten Heel Pointed Toe Pump

These patent-leather shoes will polish up any casual outfit.

Mango

Slingback Heeled Shoes with Buckle

I'll be dressing up my baggy jeans with this striking pair in vivid red.

This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.

Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer. Having worked in the fashion industry since her time at university—where she obtained a BA in Journalism from University of the Arts London, Natalie's experience spans journalistic and styling roles. In the early stages of her career Natalie predominately worked on editorial shoots for fashion publications such as British Vogue, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK, before moving into journalism roles.

On completion of her degree she interned in the editorial team at British Vogue and later went on to freelance for the publication. Here, she developed her interest in reporting on the latest fashion news and trends. Inspired by the dynamic nature of the industry, Natalie went on to write for other lifestyle and fashion brands and publications before taking on the role as News Writer for Who What Wear.

With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Focusing on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion, Natalie reports on a daily basis, ensuring that she remains ahead of the trends. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.