Deciding on the best designer shoes to invest your hard-earned money in can be a difficult task. If this is your first time dipping your toe into the world of luxury designers, then probably even more so. We’ll always feel pulled between the desire to invest in timeless classics or statement pieces that help to inform our sense of personal style, and that’s a decision that only you can make.
With that in mind, we’re here to help you sift through the plethora of options to find the right shoe for you. Whether it’s the fun shoe you’ll wear on nights out, the practical pair for daily commutes and corporate offices, or the timeless classic that can see you through almost any occasion.
Ahead, we share the shoes we believe you’ll never regret investing in, from some of our favourite designers.
marie claire’s Edit Of The Best Designer Shoes To Invest In:
- Best Mules: Manolo Blahnik Maysale 50 Buckled Suede Mules, $1,375
- Best Ballet Flats: Maison Margiela Tabi Ballerina Shoes, $1,560
- Best Pumps: Christian Louboutin Pigalle 85 Patent-Leather Courts, $1,325
- Best Sandals: The Row Bare Leather Sandals, $1,191
- Best Loafers: Saint Laurent Le Loafer, $1,625
- Best Boots: Toteme Riding Boots, $1,860
Manolo Blahnik Maysale 50 Buckled Suede Mules
$1,375 at Net-A-Porter
Though Carrie Bradshaw’s Manolo Blahnik crystal-embellished Hangisi satin pumps are undoubtedly the most recognisable shoes from the designer, the Maysale will be a more wearable investment piece for many people.
The low, 50mm heel makes them perfect for the office and also evening events, and the mule style is versatile enough to wear with almost anything else in your wardrobe.
Colours: Black, dark brown, burgundy, navy, tan | Materials: 100% suede upper, 100% leather sole and lining.
Maison Margiela Tabi Ballerina Shoes
$1,560 at Farfetch
Though the Maison Margiela Tabi split-toe went mainstream last year, it has long been a staple for It Girls — just ask Chloë Sevigny.
There are endless styles available, from patent Mary Janes to chunky-heeled boots, but we’ll always favour the ballet flat, which looks as chic under jeans as it does with a miniskirt.
Colours: Black, Sand Brown, Off White | Materials: 100% Nappa leather upper, 100% Calf leather sole and lining
Christian Louboutin Pigalle 85 Patent-Leather Courts
$1,325 at MyTheresa
There’s no more classic everyday pump than the red-sole courts from Christian Louboutin. Made from 100% patent calf leather, this is the kind of timeless shoe you’ll want to pass on to your child one day.
Colours: Black | Materials: Patent calf leather.
The Row Bare Leather Sandals
$1,191 at Net-A-Porter
If there’s one design duo we trust to fill our wardrobes with investment pieces that won’t date, it’s Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen—specifically, via their label, The Row.
The Bare sandals are a case in point for this. With minimalist leather straps and a comfortable 65mm heel, this is the type of shoe that’s appropriate for every occasion on your social (and work) calendar.
Colours: Black, White | Materials: 100% kid leather upper with leather lining.
Gucci Horsebit-Detail Leather Loafers
$1,800 at Gucci
Gucci’s horsebit detail has been a signature of the House since 1953. Though Mr Aldo Gucci first released a horsebit loafer inspired by a moccasin silhouette, it’s the slimmer-profile loafers that have endured in our closets.
This particular style, the Brixton is the most versatile of the collection, with a fold-down heel that allows you to slip them on like a mule, if that’s your preferred way to style it.
Colours: Black, white | Materials: 100% calf leather.
Chanel Ballet Flats
$1,640 at Chanel
The Chanel ballet flat is a shoe that will suit anyone, from any generation.
The House’s signature almond-shaped toe elongates the leg, and the classic black colourway with its patent-toe detail is an undeniably timeless choice that will complement almost everything (and anything) in your wardrobe.
Colours: Available in various colourways. | Materials: Lambskin & Patent Calfskin, Tweed & fabrics
Khaite Nevada Ankle Boot
$2,980 at Net-A-Porter
In our opinion, Khaite’s Nevada ankle boot is the best of the Western trend.
With a square-pointed toe and subtle cowboy detailing, this boot screams confidence. Plus, the flattering sock style ensures these boots will slip seamlessly underneath jeans (no matter how loose or skinny), and the slanted 40mm heel provides just enough lift and sculptural interest.
Colours: Black | Materials: 100% Nappa leather.
Saint Laurent Le Loafer
$1,625 at Saint Laurent
If paparazzi pictures of Zoe Kravtiz are any indication, the Saint Laurent penny loafers are well worth the investment.
The relaxed and slightly masculine style is one we certainly gravitate towards, with gathered stitching and gold-tone hardware that nods to its luxury craftmanship. This is the kind of shoe that just gets better with age.
Colours: Black & brown suede | Materials: Lambskin upper, leather sole.
Toteme Leather Riding Boot
$1,860 at Totemee
If you choose carefully, a flat knee-high boot is one piece you’ll only need to buy once. This classic riding style from Toteme will fill that precise spot in your wardrobe.
With a sturdy flat sole perfect for everyday wear and a wide shaft that allows for easy styling with dresses, skirts, and pants, you’ll quickly find these boots become a go-to item in your winter wardrobe.
Colours: Black | Materials: 100% Calf leather, lining: 100% Sheep leather, sole: 100% Calf leather.
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