
This may not be a total revelation, but the best slingback heels (a.k.a. the most classic shoe silhouette) are also one of the best summer shoes. They feel a little less formal than a full-on pump, plus you often have a ton of options to choose from, making them great for work or a wedding. But, like all wardrobe essentials, classic is not a euphemism for boring. The trendiest shoes for spring 2023 also happen to come in this shape, and they include gorgeous pops of jewel tones, metallic details, denim, woven details—we could go on.
"Around since the 1940s, the slingback has stood the test of time," details Maria Gangemi, the founder of shoe brand M.Gemi. "I personally love this elegant style for its feminine details: its delicate strap and exposed heel. It also looks fantastic with everything from pants to skirts and suits," she adds, praising the shoe's endless versatility.
Scroll down for this season’s best slingback heel offerings in a variety of price points. If the slingback heel is just your next pick on your heel-collecting journey, the editors at Marie Claire have rounded up the most essential types of heels for you to gain inspiration from. Or, if you've fallen head over heels (sorry) for some of the chunkier items on this list, we even have a roundup of the best platform heels for you to shop, too.
The Best Slingback Heels
- Best Overall Slingback Heels: PEDRO Icon Leather Pointed Slingback Pumps
- Best Office-Appropriate Slingback Heels: Naturalizer Banks Slingback Pumps
- Best Investment Slingback Heel: Gucci Baby Mid-Heel Horsebit Slingback Pumps
- Best Black Slingback Heels: Charles & Keith Woven Buckle Slingback Heeled Pumps
- Best Slingback Platform Heels: Aerosoles Nadia Block Heel Slingback Sandal
- Best Slingback Heels for a Wedding: Stuart Weitzman Gemcut XCurve 100 Slingback Pump
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.
Meet the Expert
Born in Sicily, Maria Gangemi has spent her life developing a deep understanding of and appreciation for the art of luxury handcrafted shoes. Spend a few minutes talking with her, and you’ll find her genuine passion for luxury leather goods and commitment to Italian craftsmanship to be palpable. Over three decades, Maria Gangemi has worked across the realms of creative and merchandising – developing her relationships with luxury artisans and factories in Italy, honing her knowledge of trends, and directing the look and feel of a variety of shoe lines and boutiques. Drawing on her rich Italian roots, Maria Gangemi oversees every single shoe handcrafted for M.Gemi.
Julia Marzovilla is the E-Commerce Editor at Marie Claire, where she covers everything from the latest beauty and fashion launches and sales to celebrity outfits and news. She also creates shopping guides that span every vertical on the site. Prior to joining the Marie Claire team, she contributed similar shopping stories to sites such as Bustle, InStyle, The Zoe Report, Who What Wear, and STYLECASTER. In her spare time, Julia can be found creating shopping guides for all of her friends, spending too much money on yet another pair of black boots, and cooking in her far-too-small kitchen.
- Emma ChildsStyle Editor
-
These Brushes Will Completely Change How You Apply Makeup
The Kevyn Aucoin The Duet Foundation Brush is our desert island pick.
By Samantha Holender
-
Channing Tatum Says He YouTubed How to Braid Daughter Everly's Hair When He Became a Single Dad
Two words: Girl. Dad.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
'SATC' Star Evan Handler Says He'll "Welcome" Kim Cattrall's Return on His TV Set
She didn't see anyone while filming her cameo.
By Iris Goldsztajn