Out of All the Designer Shoes, These Are the Ones Truly Worth Investing In
Shoes, shoes, shoes. We can't help but love them. So much so that if we tallied up all the pairs the Who What Wear editors own, we would most definitely need a calculator. Of course, we can get on board with a brilliant expensive-looking high-street shoe find as much as the next person, but when it comes to footwear, nothing quite beats the thrill of unboxing (and slipping on) a beautifully made luxury pair.
And because shoes are one of those items that can really make an outfit, transforming it from plain to showstopping in seconds, and because you tend to wear your favourite pairs again and again over many years, we're of the opinion that the cost per wear when investing in a designer pair you adore becomes worth it rather quickly.
Of course, it's all about finding the perfect pair for you so that you get the most out of them. And not just the most wear (although, looking out for a timeless style helps) but also the most joy. Because shoes are undeniably something that brings happiness to our wardrobes, whether that comes from wearing a beautiful classic like Gucci's Jordaan loafers or a bold statement piece like Gabriela Hearst's fishermen sandals or Jimmy Choo's Love stilettos.
So if you've been considering levelling up your shoe game for a while and want to make sure the styles you pick are going to stand the test of time, as well as enhance your wardrobe (and your life), you'll want to keep scrolling to see our edit of the all-time best designer shoes money can buy. We've tried to cover everything from heels you can dance the night away in to mules that are perfect for heading back into the office with and ankle boots you can wear all year round. Don't worry—we won't keep you apart any longer…
Shop the Designer Shoe Brands Worth Investing In:
1. Gucci
It's the most coveted loafer–and for good reason. With the iconic Horsebit and the slim shape, it's the perfect flat.
For the magpies, these Gucci pumps have just the right amount of sparkle. While the logo embellishment gives them a modern look, the classic shape ensures it'll stay in style for a long time.
2. Jimmy Choo
Jimmy Choo's heels are a red carpet favourite, and these are a perfect example of why they're the A-list go-to.
A black stiletto is a must-have shoe that will always come in handy, and the Love—which is part of the brand's Icons collection—is one you're sure to fall for.
3. Prada
Prada shoes have firmly secured their position as a fashion girl's must-have. These patent slingbacks are a signature style, with the subtle triangle logo and the classic, sexy slingback shape.
Prada boots are truly among the very best, and these patent ankle boots can work in any season.
4. The Row
The Row is one of the designer labels that has driven the resurgence of the Mary Jane, so you can't go wrong with a pair straight from the source.
These zip-up boots always sell out—grab yours while you can and just see how much you wear them.
5. Mach & Mach
Mach & Mach shoes are a sparkle-lovers dream, and these flats mean you can enjoy the embellishment day or night.
Then again, when it comes to dressing for a special occasion, nothing is more special than these.
6. Manolo Blahnik
Manolo Blahnik may be best known for his stilettos, but his flats are equally worth the investment.
It's the shoe that Carrie Bradshaw made famous, and it remains truly iconic today.
7. Saint Laurent
If towering platforms are on your wish list, these ultra-sexy Saint Laurents are the ones to go for.
Understatedly cool, these Saint Laurent mules are truly timeless.
8. Christian Louboutin
He may be best known for his stilettos, but these super seductive boots are the ultimate knee-high.
The red bottom—a shoe so famous, many songs have been written about them.
9. Toteme
Trust me, Toteme's beautifully minimalist shoes are the modern classics, and these pointed-toe flats tick off every current trend, too.
Wear with jeans, tailored trousers, dresses, skirts—basically, everything.
10. Aeyde
Ballet pumps are the shoe that just keeps coming back in fashion, making these Aeyde flats the perfect investment piece.
Strappy sandals are another classic style, and Aeyde's have all the right details.
11. Loeffler Randall
Beautifully romantic, plissé-organza bow-adorned shoes are Loeffler Randall's signature. You'll get so much wear out of these at your spring/summer events.
12. Bottega Veneta
These have all the Bottega Veneta signatures that make them worth the investment—the vibrant green and the woven leather.
Chunky Chelsea boots aren't going anywhere.
13. Gabriela Hearst
Gabriela Hearst single-handedly revived love for the fisherman's sandal—get yours while you can.
No one does elegant minimalism quite like Gabriela Hearst.
14. Khaite
Mesh flats may be trending now, but I predict they'll keep coming back over the years.
Khaite's sleek boots continue to be at the top of every fashion lover's wish list.
15. Le Monde Beryl
If you're looking to invest in velvet Mary Janes, Le Monde Beryl should be the brand you turn to.
This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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Jess Kelham-Hohler is a freelance writer, editor and content strategist. She has been a contributor for Who What Wear UK since 2023. Currently based in London following six years in Washington D.C. and New York, she was previously the Digital Editor for Soho House & Co, an international group of private members’ clubs for creatives. She has interviewed a range of artists, creators and more, including Alighieri founder Rosh Mahtani, photographer Misan Harriman and fashion editor Lindsay Peoples Wagner. Today, she writes primarily about fashion, travel and culture for various publications, and has worked as a copywriter and content strategist for brands such as Belstaff, Olivela and Equinox.
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