The Hyperelegant Shoes European Women Wear When They Skip Flats

As much as flat shoes may be dominating across the globe right now with ballerina flats, loafers, and sneakers at the forefront of style, there will always be room for a pair of classic heels in the closets of the chicest women in Europe. In fact, the more I study their effortless and elegant wardrobes to figure out how they always manage to look so put-together with minimal effort, the more I've realized that there's one pair of heels they rely on for their chicest outfits—black slingback pumps, a tried-and-true, classic shoe style.

The transformative power of these timeless shoes is nothing new, but with a renewed focus on the style this year, I plan to capitalize on its elevating effects. Great black slingback heels can turn even a simple white T-shirt and jeans into a "rich girl" moment. Ahead, I'm nominating five styles as the best black slingback pumps, according to our team of fashion editors who have personally vetted them, and sharing an array of fresh outfit ideas to inspire you on how to style the timeless heels. Shop the top picks and a selection of even more black slingback heels that are truly the only shoes you need for an expensive-looking spring outfit.

The Best Black Slingback Heels

• Best Luxury Pick: Prada Patent Leather Slingback Pumps ($1200)
• Best Classic Pick: Black Suede Studio Lou Slingback Pumps ($328)
• Best Kitten-Heel Pick: Maje Slingback Pump ($410)
• Best Color Options: Sam Edelman Bianka Slingback Pumps ($140)
• Best Block-Heel Pick: Dolce Vita Patzy Heels ($150)

Best Luxury Pick: Prada Patent Leather Slingback Pumps

Frankly, nothing is more iconic than a pair of Prada pumps. While the brand's statement shoes tend to get all the buzz, it's the classic slingback pumps finished with a triangle logo at the toe that are arguably the better wardrobe investment. They come in black, ivory, and cherry red with options for 55-millimeter and 70-millimeter heels, but the black lower-heel version is the wisest investment you can make.

Specs: leather triangle logo, rubber heel cap, 2.16-inch heel

Size range: 4.5 to 10.5

Best Classic Pick: Black Suede Studio Lou Slingback Pumps

I had searched high and low for a pair of classic black slingback pumps. My stipulations were that they needed to have a low, walkable heel and be devoid of any logos or trend-driven details so that I could wear them with as many different outfits as possible. I'm pleased to say that the Lou Pumps from Black Suede Studio have ended my search for good. The leather is buttery soft, and the angled heel shape makes them comfortable to walk miles in (of which I've logged many).

Specs: 100% leather, buckle strap closure, 2-inch heel

Size range: 5 to 12

Best Kitten-Heel Pick: Maje Slingback Pumps

"I've owned these sleek black slingbacks from Maje for over a year now, and they remain one of my absolute favorites," says associate shopping director Judith Jones. "They're incredibly comfortable and have the perfect kitten-heel height, which makes them easy to walk in and ideal for day or night."

Specs: adjustable buckle strap with clover charm, 2.2-inch heel

Size range: 5.5 to 10.5

Best Color Options: Sam Edelman Bianka Slingback Pumps

If you've ever plugged "slingback heels" into your search bar, chances are you've come across the Sam Edelman Bianka Slingbacks. At $140, they're one of the more expensive-looking options on the market, and with a color and finish option for every mood, style, and season, they're one of the savviest shoe buys out there.

Specs: adjustable slingback strap with buckle closure; 18 color and finish options, including genuine and synthetic leather, patent, and genuine calf hair; 2.5-inch heel

Size range: 5 to 14 with wide-width options

Best Block-Heel Pick: Dolce Vita Patzy Heels

"These block-heeled slingbacks from Dolce Vita have easily become one of the most worn shoes in my wardrobe," associate shopping editor Chinazor Offor says. "I love that they feel slightly more elevated than flat shoes, but they're very comfortable. The square toe is super cute as well."

Specs: leather upper, recycled synthetic outsole, double-buckle design, five color options, 1.5-inch block heel

Size range: 5 to 13

How to Style Black Slingbacks

Sometimes, the simplest outfit can give off an expensive feel. Such is the case with this look that features three key pieces beyond the black slingback flats—a chic trench coat, a basic white T-shirt, and dark denim.

Here is another outfit idea that's simple yet rich looking. All you need is a neutral long-sleeve knit (a butter-like hue feels current), a denim maxi skirt in a dark wash, and the black slingback heels of your choice.

This outfit is the epitome of chic and great for a variety of occasions thanks to the mix of elevated basics, including a black blazer, a gray sweater, straight-leg jeans, and statement black slingback heels.

Tell me this sophisticated neutral ensemble wouldn't catch your eye. Re-create the look with a brown trench coat, a white fitted button-down, cool gray jeans, and embossed black slingback heels.

When in doubt, a sleek all-black look will never fail for a night out. Wear black trousers with a slinky bodysuit and punctuate it with a metal-closure belt and patent-finish slingbacks.

Here's one outfit that is guaranteed to make an elegant statement. Throw on a white button-down in a silky fabric with tailored shorts, tights, and sleek slingback kitten heels, then you're good to go.