The 15 Best Slingback Heels of 2023

If you're new to heels or want a pair that isn't as intimidating or difficult to master as a towering stiletto, consider these strapped-in slingback platforms from Aerosoles. They retail for only $135, and given their stable block heel, will be much easier to walk in than a pointy, hair-thin heel. Take it from this one thrilled customer about the shoe's effortless feel: "These are the most comfortable shoes I have," writes one overjoyed reviewer. "I can't wear high heels anymore, and these give me the height without the pain."

How understated and sexy are these PEDRO leather heels with silver hardware? Note the forever-glamorous pointed-toe silhouette, too, which makes these a timeless style you won't ever tire of. They're the ideal going-out shoe for spring and summer evenings: paired with your favorite mini skirt, cut-out dress, or breezy linen pant, they'll add just the perfect element of elevated edge. Plus, with a wearable 65mm stiletto, they're relatively easy to walk in—a.k.a. you're less likely to teeter over onto the floor after one (or two or three) cocktails.

This top-ranked pair of low-heeled slingbacks from Naturalizer is a bestseller for a reason. "Exactly what I was looking for—a comfortable shoe that will take me anywhere," writes one Nordstrom reviewer who can't praise this "classy" shoe enough. "Dressier than a flat but way more comfortable than a skinny heel. The 'barely nude' is a perfect neutral shade." Another reviewer gives these slingbacks the ultimate stamp of approval: "I bought these for my son's wedding. It was a 14-hour day, and my feet never hurt!"

"My personal favorite, and the style that I wear nonstop, is M. Gemi's The Mia 90mm in gunmetal," offers Gangemi. "It makes me feel great by giving my legs that little extra length and makes it so easy to walk in with its slightly flared sculpted heel. Even more, for me, the slingback has just the right amount of extra give (with its slight give in the backstrap) that just makes it so comfortable without sacrificing height."

This pair of slingback heeled sandals from everyone's go-to brand for elevated classics, J.Crew, is perfect for daily wear or if you require something more formal. They come in three colorways ranging from this khaki linen style with black piping to a high-shine gold iteration with sheer mesh. One happy J. Crew shopper describes the shoe as a "strongly feminine style [that is] elegant for women who like to feel unique," touting its versatility as a style to wear "to the office, the restaurant, wherever you need to feel well dressed."

Hot pink is one of the most popular color trends for spring 2023. Hop on the Barbie-reminiscent trend by opting for this pair of bubble gum-hued pumps from Marc Fisher. The 4-inch high heel makes them a fantastic option for formal occasions, and the stretch panel on the slingback strap ensures a flexible, comfortable wear. "[I've] been looking for a slingback that doesn't hurt the back of my ankle but also stays up, and this fits the bill," writes one Bloomingdale's reviewer. "Overall, a lovely shoe."

Heading to a black-tie wedding and looking for cute formal shoes? This pick from Stuart Weitzman will add a touch of bling to your wedding guest dress or party-ready suit. And yes, admittedly, they're a splurge at $455, but they're a pair you'll cherish for years to come. Take it from this shopper: "These are stunning and true to [Stuart Weitzman] in being pretty comfortable and consistent in sizing. I will have these in my closet forever," they describe of the stunning bedazzled slingbacks.

These leather slingback pumps by Gucci are so undeniably timeless and refined that they're worth the investment price tag. Try them in cream if black doesn't quite suit your taste. One enthused shopper writes, "the '60s are back," declaring these shoes as "retro to perfection." Another Gucci fan wore them to a business conference and noted their ease of wear. "[They're] comfortable and easy to walk in. And [they're] also a statement piece you can dress up jeans with to take to the next level!"

If you want a pair of bridal heels that feels just as special as your actual gown, this bow-adorned, off-white pair from Seychelles fits the bill. The heel clocks in at 1.5 inches, so you won't have to worry about wobbling and stumbling your way down the aisle. "I bought these online for my wedding [because] I wanted something feminine and delicate without too high of a heel," writes one Anthropologie reviewer. "These shoes are perfect—the heel height is as advertised, and they are very comfortable."

How special do these chunky-heeled slingback pumps from the affordable shoe brand Charles & Keith feel? The low, wearable 1.77-inch heel makes them easy to style (paired with a slip dress and blazer or flowy yet tapered trousers!). Plus, the woven buckle gives them a summery slant, meaning they're about to be your new favorite shoe in the coming weeks. In total, this pair gives off a vibe that says, "I draw inspiration from the sublime minimalist fashion of the '90s—but I put my own twist on things."

Celebrities and stylists alike are obsessed with the sexy-chic heels from Amina Muaddi—and it's easy to see why the Jordanian-Romanian shoemaker has garnered such a cult following. For instance, take these slingback pumps done in iridescent leather. One of Net-a-Porter's "Trending Now" items, the viral investment-worthy shoes are four inches high and adorned with a front crystal embellishment that is, simply put, stunning. Yes, the price tag is lofty, but they're an excellent opportunity to snag a buzzy shoe and support the Rihanna-approved designer (yup, RiRi is a big fan).

Reformation doesn't just make a line of excellent (and sustainable!) clothing. They also make equally-cute footwear, ranging from flip-flops and flats to mules and heels—like these strappy slingbacks. This pair of metallic sandals from the brand has a low, 35mm heel for comfort and is the epitome of a day-to-night MVP. Styled with a collared shirtdress and work bag, you have an elevated work outfit. But paired with a mini dress and corset top? Now that's a killer look for happy hour.

These slingback sandals by shoe brand PEDRO are for the people who want the look of a heeled mule or strappy summer sandal but want a bit more support through the ankle—in other words, for those who want to ensure their shoes won't fly off their feet as you head up a flight of stairs or step onto the subway platform. Shop them in three easy-to-style colors, including walnut brown, black, and tan sand. Styling-wise, your whole closet is your oyster here. They'll pair well with a flowing maxi dress or even a tailored short suit.

Tory Burch underwent a rebrand in recent years. The brand that once exclusively designed preppy signatures has broadened its horizons to offer classics with a fresh-feeling contemporary slant. This pair of patent leather slingbacks in azure blue falls perfectly in line with the designer's new MO. One customer concurs: "I wanted a somewhat classic slingback, but not a completely typical style. These are exactly what I was looking for. A beautiful, atypical color and a sensible, but not frumpy, block heel." Oh, and did you see they're on sale for $189, almost half off the original price tag? 

Finally, a pair of heels that are so timeless you'll want to wear them with everything. The heel on these patent-leather pumps from Veronica Beard is 4 inches, making them one of the tallest on this list. Consider these your new go-to formal footwear. Have an upscale wedding on the docket? These are the heels to wear. A work event that requires your sartorial best? The Analita Sandal is your answer. You'll also notice the swooping design of the slingback ankle strap, which creates a sculptural look that gives them more of an artistic effect.