Welcome to our list of The 10 Most Classic Designer Shoes of All Time!
Some designer shoes last a season, others last a lifetime. Among the many designer shoes out there, there are a few that will always be classics. Here I’ll show you 10 shoes that will stand the test of time and that are definitely worth the investment, you would be wearing them all your life!
So, without further ado here are The 10 Most Classic Designer Shoes of All Time:
1. Chanel Slingbacks
First created by Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel in 1957, there’s more to Chanel’s two-tone slingbacks than meets the eye; the nude upper part lengthens the leg, while the black toe shortens the foot. Former Creative Director Karl Lagerfeld reintroduced them in Autumn/Winter 2015, and they soon became a must-have. It was originally inspired by 1950’s men’s shoes and today they are a symbol of femininity. To this day, the classic pumps remain a fashion-girl favorite, thanks to their sleek silhouette and neutral colorway.
This is a shoe you can be comfortable in while looking elegant and chic, isn’t that the dream?
2. Gucci Horsebit Loafers
In 1953 Gucci created a loafer entirely inspired by the equestrian lifestyle. The result was the iconic Horsebit shoe we know today: A simple leather loafer embellished with a metal horse bit. Until this day it is still wildly popular and one of the top selling Gucci products, it is the type of shoe you will keep in your collection forever. You can choose between the loafer and the slides, both equally comfortable and stylish, but of course the loafers are the most classic.
This is that rare shoe that can easily be worn from work to casual outings, it will be a staple in your closet!
3. Hermès Oran Sandals
These sandals are on a class of their own, resellers say they are the most requested shoe in the resale market. One of Hermes’ best-sellers, the Oran sandal is a staple that you’ll return to again and again every time the weather gets warm. Created in 1997 by renowned shoe designer, Pierre Hardy, the Oran sandals have become a staple for many fashion enthusiasts. Inspired by South Africa’s Ndebele tribe, the sandals create a fresh, laid back vibe perfect for day to day activities.
It doesn’t get any more classic then the Hermès Oran Sandal.
4. Christian Louboutin Pigalle Follies Pump
Louboutins are some of the most classic heels ever, you know they will never go out of style. They will forever be a staple in your closet perfect for every occasion and are by far Christian Louboutin’s most iconic red-soled shoe. Named after the famous “Folies Pigalle” nightclub in Paris, not far from the Moulin Rouge, this is one of the House’s classic styles.
A go-to look that’s anything but basic, the Pigalle pump is slightly more revealing on the sides and has a daringly slimmed-down stiletto that’s a hallmark of the Follies line.
5. Dior J’Adior Slingbacks
The J’Adior slingback pump is a prime example of Dior’s savoir-faire. Crafted in the Christian Dior Italian ateliers, the silhouette is distinguished by a sophisticated style. The two-tone embroidered ‘J’ADIOR’ ribbon is embellished with a flat bow and the 10 cm or kitten comma heels offer the final elegant touch for every look. These slingbacks were launched in 2017 and were immediately popular, but now, almost 6 years later, they have proven to be classics of the brand.
With a smooth pointed toe, this slip-on style is the perfect spring and summer shoe to go with all your favorite flowy dresses, skirts, and shorts.
6. Roger Vivier Belle Vivier
It was 1965 when Roger Vivier was catapulted to stellar success. He designed a classic black pump, embellished with an oversized chrome-plated buckle for Yves Saint Laurent’s presentation of his Mondrian collection. The shoes became the most in-demand footwear of the season. Women flocked to Vivier’s boutique in Paris to buy a pair. In 1967, the shoes were forever immortalized on film as Catherine Deneuve wore a pair in “Belle de Jour. It has since been known as the “Belle Vivier” – the Maison’s most iconic style.
Inspired by the Belle the mason designed another iconic style in 2016. Hand crafted by Italian artisans in materials such as satin and velvet, the Flower Strass is distinguished by bejeweled flowers adorning the signature metal buckle. Today, red carpet favorites such as Nicole Kidman and Céline Dion, are all aficionados of the Flower Strass, making it another icon for Roger Vivier.
But the Belle Vivier continues to be the most classic and iconic of the two!
7. Chanel Ballerinas
An old-time classic, Chanel’s ballet flats haven’t lost their charm—and probably never will. Audrey Hepburn famously adored these chic shoes in the 1950s, thanks to the fact that they provided a comfortable alternative to the era’s more popular heeled styles. Inspired by ballet slippers, this pair is comprised of quilted calfskin leather featuring the iconic CC logo at the toe. Chanel Ballerinas will never go out of style, they are as timeless as it comes. For some 70 years these shoes have been worn by chic women everywhere and of every age, and they are also lightweight and comfortable.
When it comes to Chanel Ballerinas it is not a matter of opinion, they will always be in style.
8. Manolo Blahnik Hangisi Pump
Having reached icon status due to pop culture, the Hangisi pumps aren’t only the most classic heels of the brand but are also some of the most iconic heels ever! These pumps are extremely chic and timeless, so if you are looking for the perfect wedding shoe look no farther. The now famous Manolo Blahnik buckle was first introduced in 2008 in the Hangisi pump. Blahnik designed the pump, embellished with a crystal buckle, in pink, black and green satin for spring ’08. Since then, the Hangisi style has evolved into boots, mules, d’Orsays and flats. It has been produced in over 100 materials and colorways, as well as in seven heel heights. Each pair of Hangisis is handmade in Italy, and each buckle is made up of 144 separate stones.
These pumps are like pieces of jewelry, you’ll treasure them forever!
9. René Caovilla Cleo Sandal
Rene Caovilla’s Cleo sandals have been a style icon since 1969 – so much so that they’ve even been exhibited at the MoMA. They’re handmade in Italy from leather and feature the house’s signature bombè coil straps, which are hand-embellished with crystals using a heat-sealing technique that is unique to the brand. Designed for the woman who loves to feel like a goddess on the most important occasions, these elegant high-heeled sandals are to die for.
These are definitely statement heels that will not go out of style!
10. Prada Loafers
Since the 1950’s loafers have been a part of the most classic shoes a woman can own. Inspired by men’s shoes they look as good with a pair of jeans as they do with a summer dress. Prada’s loafers are some of the best you could find. Emphasized by the iconic enameled triangle logo, these retro-inspired loafers are made of brushed leather, traditionally used in classic fine footwear. The notched effect of the welt around the shoe gives it a handcrafted touch.
This is a practical, durable and stylish shoe you would be wearing your whole life!
