If you’re the type of person who considers blowing it all on a new pair of shoes come payday, you’re not alone. Who could forget the immortal words of icon Bette Midler when she said that “I firmly believe that with the right footwear one can rule the world”, reason enough to invest in a a pair of special shoes to make getting ready in the morning help you feel that little bit more confident.
With that in mind, shoe lovers–this is a guide for you. Settle down for 10 minutes of required reading, as below we give you our comprehensive shoe designer list. From the big names we’ve loved for decades (cough, Manolo) to the new brands making our feet look more fashionable. Keep scrolling to see—and shop—the best designer shoes making a real impact this year.
When Carrie Bradshaw was mugged in New York in an episode of Sex and the City, she famously said “Please, sir, you can take my Fendi baguette, you can take my ring and watch, but you can’t take my Manolo Blahniks.” We don’t blame her, as Manolos are arguably the most beautiful shoes in the world.
Shoe lovers won’t need to be introduced to Aquazzura—this brand has an A-list following and is Meghan Markle’s go-to label. Markle wore these for her engagement photograph and with her second wedding dress by Stella McCartney.
Inspired by architectural and sculptural shoe shapes, founder Alfredo Piferi launched his eponymous shoe line after celebrated stints at Valentino, Versace, and Jimmy Choo (some of the best credentials in the business). And, just when you thought the brand couldn’t get better, all of the shoes are vegan and sustainably produced, so you can shop, wear and enjoy them–guilt free.
Bottega Veneta had a revival last year which, if you use Instagram, we’re sure hasn’t passed you by. Although you might have seen the bags on the street style set, the shoes are perhaps the most covetable items from the new collection, and anybody who is anybody will have a pair of these soon.
If you’ve seen a pair of statement sculptural shoes in a street style image, chances are they’re by cult label Neous. And if this shoe brand only had one thing going for it, it would be the wearable heel height. Goodbye party feet.
Instagram-famous brand By Far creates shoes around the £300 price point, and it’s largely to thank for the square-toed sandal trend. Don’t miss out on their great boots this autumn though.
Inspired by women who aren’t afraid to take risks, 10th Floor’s statement shoes are designed with standing out in mind. Founded in 2020 by a former fashion buyer and shoe designer Fiona and Kim, you can expect expressive shoes that are a work of art.
Tabitha Simmons launched her label back in 2009 and is loved for her feminine colours and silhouettes—Alexa Chung is a big fan of her elegant ballet flats, the easy way to do French girl styling.
Son of Italian designer Sergio Rossi, Gianvito Rossi launched his own shoe label in 2006 and has become one of the most beloved names in the industry. There are over 60 steps involved in making a pair of Gianvitos, so you know the final product is a finely crafted labour of love.
Parisian label Roger Vivier has been creating dream shoes since 1937, and is one of the most esteemed names in the industry. Even the queen has worn Viviers, a testament to each pair of shoes regal finish.
London Fashion Week brand Dorateymur is another relative newcomer, and it’s beloved for its celebrity approved ankle boots and loafers with statement buckle detailing.
Maryam Nassir Zadeh is another name that exploded on Instagram, and certainly lives up to the hype—the colourful pumps, plastic mules and leather boots are worthy of every single like.
Alexandre Birman is our go-to for romantic wedding sandals, and the bow-adorned Clarita sandals come in several heights and colours, meaning there’s a pair for every single dress.
British brand Malone Souliers is another London Fashion Week favourite, and it’s our go-to for bold heels. You can spot the Maureen heels on the red carpet at least once a week on the likes of Jennifer Lawrence and Olivia Palermo.
It’s an oldie but a goodie. Jimmy Choo have always been the obvious go-to for event dressing but we can’t not give them credit for creating the most perfect knee-high boot of the 2020s in the ‘Karter’.
Newcomer Amina Muaddi has set the standard for glamorous party shoes that stand out from the crowd. With feathers and crystals galore these are shoes that are guaranteed make you feel special.
Founded in 2015 by Annamaria Brivio, Paris Texas is Inspired by the modern international woman who embodies the Parisian spirit of stylish sophistication and the Texan fun attitude. Signatures include eccentric details, head-turning colours, and feminine silhouettes that will upgrade any outfit.
Up next, Autumn/Winter 2022 Trends: The 15 Fashion Looks You Need to Know About
Main Image: @Deborabrosa
