Out of All the Designer Shoes, These Are the Ones Truly Worth Investing In

@anoukyve picture of Khaite heels

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

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. 

@camillecharriere wearing Jimmy Choo heels with a mini skirt and faux fur

(Image credit: @camillecharriere)

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. 

@brittanybathgate wearing brown Gucci horsebit loafers

(Image credit: @brittanybathgate)

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. 

@symphonyofsilk wearing Saint Laurent heels with a black skirt

(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

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

2. Jimmy Choo

3. Prada

4. The Row

5. Mach & Mach

6. Manolo Blahnik

7. Saint Laurent

8. Christian Louboutin

9. Toteme

10. Aeyde

11. Loeffler Randall

12. Bottega Veneta

13. Gabriela Hearst

14. Khaite

15. Le Monde Beryl

This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

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Freelance Fashion Editor

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.