People in London and Paris Are Swapping Their Ballet Flats for These Sleek Shoes

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.
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.
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
The kitten heel is one of the biggest footwear trends of the season.
2. FLAT SLINGBACKS
Style with baggy jeans or a billowy skirt for some super-chic spring looks.
These elegant flats have all the charm of a high heel without any of the discomfort.
These party-ready flats are at the top of my wish list.
3. BLACK SLINGBACKS
Another sexy, sleek pair. Prada knows a good shoe.
4. BUCKLE-DETAIL SLINGBACKS
Across both affordably priced and designer shops, brands are embracing the playful appeal of a subtle buckle detail.
These patent-leather shoes will polish up any casual outfit.
I'll be dressing up my baggy jeans with this striking pair in vivid red.
Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer and has worked in the fashion industry since she graduated with a degree in Journalism from the University of the Arts London. Natalie’s experience in the industry spans journalistic and styling roles that have seen her work for publications including British Vogue, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK.
With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Reporting on a daily basis, Natalie focuses on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.
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