The 16 Best Slingback Heels Prove They're Forever Classics

No matter the specific silhouette, Naturalizer designs some of the most comfortable shoes fashion has to offer. This pair of heels is no different. Available in five colors ranging from this sandy tan shade to a bright pink, they’re top-rated for comfort and style. “This shoe is wonderful if you want a soft leather upper and a flexible, nonslip sole,” gushed one Nordstrom shopper. “I purchased these in the nude color for my daughter's wedding and really needed something I could stand and dance comfortably in all day and night." The cushioned insole and three-inch heel guaranteed they could.

Selena Gomez, Taylor Swift, and Lucy Hale are all noted fans of Larroudé's slingback sandal heels. This pair of Annie Sandals from the brand is one of my personal favorites, thanks to its comfortable cushioned insole, 3.8-inch heel, and strappy design. The sandal comes in a few colors like this black hue, an ivory option, and a fun silver perfect for a party. They’re available in half sizes and run true to size, also. One Bloomigdale’s reviewer said that they’re “very comfy and the heel height is high enough not to be frumpy but still very comfortable.” No wonder this brand has celebrity approval.

"Beyond the cool Mary Jane T-strap shape, these Charles and Keith beauties are surprisingly functional," raves Marie Claire contributing editor Katherine J. Igoe. "The heels aren’t even two inches, but give a little necessary height to my (very short) frame. I always find the brand’s PU patent leather to be surprisingly comfortable and a little more flexible than the real thing—meaning I get the shine without the accompanying blisters. And even though the back straps aren’t adjustable, they’ve got enough elastic that they don’t slip off."

Presenting an expert-recommended slingback with a sharp 90mm heel that's also a breeze to walk in—a rarity in footwear. "[These heels] make 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," Gangemi says. "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." You can shop them in six colors and prints in addition to this black version. 

Dozens of five-star reviewers don’t lie: This pair of slingback heels from Sara Flint is an instant classic. The chunky heel measures two inches in height—perfect for commuting to the office—and they come in three neutral colorways. You can shop them now in sizes US 4 through 13, an impressive range in the world of heels. As one shopper wrote: “I love this shoe. It is beautiful, comfortable, and classic. If you are considering, make the purchase!! They are stunning. No complaints.” 

After I wore a similar pair of these Stuart Weitzman slingback heels for my engagement party, I immediately knew I had to get another pair for my wedding, so I bought this version topped with a sweet little bow. The stiletto heel measures two inches ,which means I can wear them for the entire day—ceremony, reception, all of it!—without my feet starting to ache. I have a small foot (I normally wear a size 35) and I can attest to the fact that these run true to size and don’t pinch me in the back at the heel as some other options do.

This under-$200 pair of heels from Sam Edelman looks far more expensive than it actually is. Available to shop in 10 colorways and prints, they would look so sweet with a pair of socks or tights now and then on their own once the warmer weather settles in. The squared-off heel clocks in at two inches and the rounded toe gives your feet plenty of room and keeps them free from pinching. “These are my new favorite shoes for the office,” wrote one Nordstrom shopper who said that she can wear them with everything. "I've had them a month wear them multiple times a weeks and there was no break-in period."

On the designer end of the shoe spectrum, I present to you this pair of black horse-bit heels from Gucci. The horsebit is having a moment right now (see: Katie Holmes and her favorite Gucci loafers) and this pair takes the classic detail up a notch. Actually, it takes it up several notches: the heel measures three inches in height. Glowing reviews say these heels are comfortable and run true-to-size, and that they are great if you have a narrow foot. 

If you prefer a barely-there type of look to your sandals, consider this pair from Gianvito Rossi. The Italian shoemaker specializes in sexy silhouettes, and this pair masters the look without a heel in an ankle-breaking height. You can find your perfect size, too: They come in European sizes 34 through 42 (which generally equals a US 12), including half sizes. The gold colorway is also perfect for summer but provides an ‘80s-inspired look when paired over black tights or socks. The strappy silhouette will also take up next-to-no room in your suitcase.  

Aeyde makes shoes for in-the-know editors and celebrities like Gigi Hadid and Emma Stone. This pair of pointed-toe pumps plays into the metallic and silver shoe trend dominating fashion lately. For reference, silver heels appeared on the runways at Alexander McQueen, Coperni, and Emporio Armani for the Spring/Summer 2024 season. This kitten-heeled pair from Aeyde comes in half-sizes and is very ‘90s-inspired—perfect for pairing with your favorite little black dress. 

Master the French girl look with this pair of so-called “Babies” from French brand Sezane. You may know them for their range of luxurious-feeling knits but do not overlook their footwear selection: It’s just as good, I promise. This two-tone pair is perfect for wearing with a cute pair of red socks like Zoe Kravitz, but they also come in spring-ready shades including lavender and pistachio green. They don’t come in half-sizes, sadly, but the brand recommends going one size up if you are between two sizes. 

When Taylor Swift said heeled loafers were trending back at the end of last year, I knew just where to look to find myself a pair—and J.Crew didn't let me down. These slingbacks come in three colors—this brown snake print, a shiny black patent leather option, and a playful silver version—and in sizes 5 through 12. The heel on this pair measures 60 millimeters—a little over two inches—in height and is perfect for wearing year-round thanks to its brown print. 

Ganni’s buckled ballet flats have taken the fashion world by storm, so it only makes sense that the brand would create a heeled, slightly more formal version. And this pair will get to you quick if you want them: Customers who buy before 1 pm EDT will have same-day delivery. They don’t come in half-sizes but they are available in a wide range of full sizes: US5 through 12, to be exact. They’re also made from 51 percent recycled polyester, an added bonus. 

Tory Burch has been on a tear lately, designing hit collection after hit collection that has left fashion lovers drooling. This pair of black slingback heels is just the next in a long line of pairs that I need to get my hands on in 2024. They come in either white or black and feature a brassy roped detail across the toe, the perfect combination of ‘80s flair and modern elegance. They do come in half-sizes (and in full sizes 5 through 12), but they’re selling fast. 

I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again—stop sleeping on Reformation’s shoe collection. This strappy pair, for one, is the answer to your summer footwear woes. So you want a sandal that looks elevated, has a heel, and won’t leave your feet in pain at your next wedding or formal event? Look no further. You want them to cost less than $300? These check that box, too. You can even shop them in half sizes (major score!) and in three colors: Black, white, and an oh-so-trendy red iteration. What’s not to love? 

 "I had all but given up on wearing heels to work before I got acquainted with Aera's slingback loafer heels," Senior News Editor Halie LeSavage says. "Now, I wear this pair at least weekly. They have a quilted, padded insole and a secure, stretchy strap, plus the softest leather. The heel is just high enough to wear with a slouchy trouser (so the hem doesn't drag too much on the ground), but I also love showing them off with an A-line skirt and a crewneck sweater."