While there’s certainly a time and place for online shopping (ahem, now), I always adore an in-person experience. Just the other day, I found myself in Sam Edelman’s SoHo store, perusing countless shelves of laid-back luxury goods. I chatted up a storm with the resident shoe consultant who revealed her favorite footwear style of all time: the brand’s Bianka Slingback Pump.
She mentioned that she had a particular affinity for the 51 percent-off disco ball version—and that’s when I realized it looked familiar. Kylie Jenner wore the same shoe in a campaign for the brand back in March, giving the kitten heels her stamp of approval.
Sam Edelman Bianka Slingback Pump
But it’s not the color that makes this style so coveted. Tons of celebrities, including Reese Witherspoon, Katie Holmes, and Nicole Kidman adore slingback pumps thanks to their practical design. The thin back strap securely keeps the shoe on (instead of flying into the streets, sidewalks, gutters…you get the point), while a sleek, pointed toe adds a heap of sophistication. Throw in the barely there heel and it’s an unstoppable combo that’s both totally easy to wear and sexy.
Steve Madden Legaci Pumps
Steve Madden offers a pretty spot-on lookalike, delivering a fiery-red shoe with a buckled strap and extra detailing. “They can go from the office to a night out,” said a reviewer—and I couldn’t agree more. Even better? They said they get compliments every time they wear them.
Franco Sarto Khloe Pointed-Toe Kitten Heel Pump
If you’re sold on the practical sling-back kitten heel style but want something a bit more edgy, consider the Franco Sarto Pumps. You can’t go wrong with the leopard print (it’s basically a neutral!), offering a wildly fun addition to your wardrobe. The bonus front strap provides additional security, while a glitzy gold buckle delivers pizzazz.
Genshuo Slingback Kitten Heel
For the neutral girlies, Genshuo has you covered. Reviewers have worn this $36 heel from weddings to long work days, proving just how comfortable this style staple really is. But don’t worry, they come in exciting hues, too, like hot pink and sparkly silver.
Whether you opt for the OG Sam Edelman slingbacks or consider a sister silhouette, just know your feet are in for a real treat. So, go ahead and wear them to New Year’s Eve parties, date nights, GNOs, and everywhere in between—you get the point.
Anthropologie Snip-Toe Slingback Heels