Shoes
Jan 26, 2023

So Long, High Heels—These Are the It Shoes Every Fashion Girl Is Wearing Now

by Remy Farrell

When it comes to fashion, we each have our own individual style and pieces that excite us the most. Some of us are dress lovers with extensive collections of minis, midis and maxis. Others are jewellery magpies who feel naked without their gilding, and the bag ladies (who are often the easiest to spot) always manage to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to the arm candy we need to know about. I, however, am a shoe fanatic. I spend the better part of my days, looking at shoes, thinking about shoes and writing about shoes, and after amassing a collection that includes everything from Mary Janes to mules, I feel well placed to discuss the latest trends happening south of the ankle.

The latest style I have fallen for is, controversially, a kitten heel—specifically the slingback. They're chic, playful and, most importantly, easy to wear. My affinity for this style came from one pair, in particular, that has been cropping up on the feet of the most fashionable women over the last couple of seasons.

Prada's logo slingback first debuted in the brand's S/S 21 show and instantly became a viral success. From the zesty neon orange to the demure and wearable black leather iteration, the unexpected smash hit spawned a legion of copycats (and a particularly good Miu Miu loafer), and now, you can find a pair in the wardrobes of fashion editors and influencers everywhere.

This season, the slingback comes in brushed leather, nude and mirror silver (destined for a viral moment) with an on-trend metal toe, but the spring pastels (mint, yellow and powder blue) are still available, so there's a pair for every mood. And honestly, I'm just happy to back any shoe trend that doesn't encourage blisters, so thank you, Prada, for an It shoe that anyone can wear. Whether you dress them up for a party, dress them down with socks, or even wear them to the office, these shoes are already iconic, and I can't stop thinking about them. Now where did I put my credit card?

Photo:

The Style Stalker

Style Notes: Prada's slingbacks work with everything from swishy skirts to smart, tailored looks.

Photo:

GETTY IMAGES

Style Notes: A quintessential Prada look contains three common elements: tailoring, glamorous edge (no jeans here) and these iconic slingbacks.

Photo:

@polliani

Style Notes: If you didn't already feel happier just from looking at these retro-inspired shoes, Janka makes a case for dopamine dressing by pairing a classic black pair with sunny polka dots.