What goes around comes around, and we know that to be doubly-true when it comes to fashion trends. Court shoes, backless mules, slingbacks — whatever you call them, they’ve been sliding into our peripheral and are ready to make a full-on comeback. These low-heeled shoes are just as synonymous with the nostalgic glamour of Sex and the City as cosmo cocktails, gossiping on a corded home phone, and massive walk-in closets in one of the world’s most space-challenged cities. How else could Carrie Bradshaw nail her iconic strut-and-hop walk through the streets of NYC without her own massive collection of slingback heels?
Since we’re all on a late-’90s/early 2000s nostalgia kick thanks to the series hitting Netflix for the first time this past spring, it’s hardly surprising that the shoe trend is back and bigger than ever. It’s been 26 years since SATC debuted, but we’re all desperate for a slice of that Y2K rom com main character energy. And after several years of big and bold shoes reigning supreme (‘70s platforms, chunky trainers, sturdy loafers…), the age of teeny-tiny shoes is here: ballet flats (especially mesh designs), micro heels and thong sandals are all having a moment. It’s the perfect break for our summer outfits (and for our feet). With a slingback, you still get some of the height, minus the teetering — and with a d’orsay cut, they’re practically sweat-free. So, if you’re still searching for the shoe of the season, consider your mission accomplished.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
Jeffrey Campbell Thomnas Slingback Half d’Orsay Cap Toe Pump, $154.95
Not to toot our own horn or anything, but we may have just found the ultimate shoe of the season, combining the very best of all 2024’s top footwear trends: A slingback silhouette, a micro, kitten heel, a ballet flat-esque toe cap and sexy, peekaboo mesh.
Jeffrey Campbell Thomnas Slingback Half d’Orsay Cap Toe Pump (Women), $, available at Nordstom
Maeve Snip-Toe Slingback Heels, $160
With the softly squared-off toe, the muted red leather and the white trimming, this Maeve pair sit firmly in retro nostalgia — perfect for those who love earlier iterations of the slingback trend, circa the 1950s and ’60s.
Maeve Snip-Toe Slingback Heels, $, available at Anthropologie
Zara Animal Print Slingback Shoes With Bow, $59.90
Walk on the wild side (literally) in this statement pair — they’ll totally upgrade your usual jeans and a nice top combination.
Coach Nikola Hybrid Slingback, $225
Another best of both worlds situation, this time the slingback heel and the menswear-inspired loafer had a baby. A very sleek and stylish baby, complete with curved heel, pointed toe and iconic Coach C logo for fashion points; padded footbed and rubber outsole for practical, wear-all-day-in-comfort points.
Coach Nikola Hybrid Slingback, $, available at Coach
Stuart Weitzman Women’s Stefanie Slingback Flats, $495
Say hello to the perfect wedding guest shoe: flat for comfort but suitably blingy for an extra special occasion.
Stuart Weitzman Women’s Stefanie Slingback Flats, $, available at Bloomingdale’s
Jacquemus Duelo Denim Geo Slingback Pumps, $810
The trend gods said denim-as-occasion wear this year, but that shouldn’t just be for your wardrobe — your footwear should get a look in too (this Jacquemus pair is guaranteed to get so many compliments on your next night out).
Jacquemus Duelo Denim Geo Slingback Pumps, $, available at Neiman Marcus
Charles & Keith Dorri Two-Tone Double-Bow Slingback Pumps – Chalk, $56
For those of us still deeply besotted with the coquette bow trend, Charles & Keith has got us covered.
Charles & Keith Dorri Two-Tone Double-Bow Slingback Pumps – Chalk, $, available at Charles & Keith
Marguax The Cluny Slingback, $325
So shiny you can see your reflection, this silver pair is surprisingly comfy thanks to its block heel, structured fit, cushy foam padding and adjustable buckle strap.
Sam Edelman Bianca Mesh Sling Heels, $160
Takes the mesh shoe trend to a whole new blinged out level and lets you show off that beautiful new pedicure you just got. What more could you ask for?
Sam Edelman Bianca Mesh Sling Heels, $, available at Free People
AEYDE Dani Slingback Flats, $375
Deceptively simple in design, there’s no outfit out there that doesn’t look instantly better with a pop of snake print (just like leopard, it’s a neutral that works with all color combinations).
Mango Sling Back Ballerina, $79.99
If, like us, you’re obsessed with Jeffrey Campbell’s Jaci Metallic Heels, but don’t want to part with near $170, you’re in luck — Mango have a great dupe for just $80.
HUMA BLANCO Canela Slingback Pumps, $290
For a truly modern take on this classic style, look no further than HUMA BLANCO and their sculptural wooden heels.
HUMA BLANCO Canela Slingback Pumps, $, available at Madewell
Aldo Stevvie Slingback Pointed Toe Pump, $90
The sharp pointed toe? The stiletto heel? The corset detail? It’s giving office siren in the best way. Think Gisele Bündchen in The Devil Wears Prada.
Aldo Stevvie Slingback Pointed Toe Pump (Women), $, available at Nordstom
Sarto Flexa Antona Slingback, $130 $79.99
Made with supple leather that will bend and move with you, these simple flats are about to become your most worn summer shoe; a comfortable upgrade on your usual sneakers.
Franco Sarto Sarto Flexa Antona Slingback, $, available at Franco Sarto
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
The Best Summer Sandal Styles To Slip Into
