The 16 Best Slingback Heels Prove They're Forever Classics

Not fully a pump, not quite a sandal, 100 percent necessary.

PARIS, FRANCE - JANUARY 20: Model Alizée Ekwakwe Priso wears dress, black leather coat, green bag, heels outside Loewe during the Menswear Fall/Winter 2024/2025 as part of Paris Fashion Week on January 20, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Christian Vierig/Getty Images)
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Here is something I know for sure: Shoe trends may come and go, but a few pieces will last forever in a well-curated wardrobe, white sneakers and ballet flats among them. The best slingback heels deserve a spot on the classic shoe mantle, too, following a banner year throughout street style and runway collections like Carolina Herrera, Coperni, and Gucci.

Defined by a slender strap across the back of the foot, slingback heels and sandals are having a moment, yes—but they’re nothing new. "Around since the 1940s, the slingback has stood the test of time," Maria Gangemi, founder of shoe brand M.Gemi, tells Marie Claire. "I personally love this elegant style for its feminine details: its delicate strap and exposed heel." It's also endlessly versatile, pairing with everything from tailored trousers to skirts and suits.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 09: Katie Holmes attends the Prada makeup and skincare launch party at Skylight at The Refinery in Brooklyn on February 09, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Gotham/GC Images)

Katie Holmes styles a pair of slingback heels in an elegant direction, for an appearance at Prada Beauty's New York Fashion Week party.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Versatility aside, there has truly never been a better time to try the best slingbacks designers have to offer. After months of wearing nothing but boots and socks, the skin-bearing style peaks during the warmer months as a summer shoe and sandal alternative. Kitten heel varieties work for everyday wear, while pairs reaching greater heights add a touch of glamour for evening events.

Read on for this season’s best slingback heel offerings at a wide range of price points. Some are hand-picked by Marie Claire's editors while others come to you courtesy of glowing reviews from shoppers across the internet.

The Best Slingback Heels

Meet the Expert

Maria Gangemi
Maria Gangemi

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.

Fashion E-Commerce Editor

Julia Marzovilla is the Fashion 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. 

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