I can appreciate that the world does not need to share the same taste in shoes as me, but there are some shoes I cannot abide. For starters, I have never been (and will never be) a "chunky sneakers" kind of girl. In fact, I'm more of a "feathers, glitter, diamanté and heels" kind of girl. That being said, I don't wear extravagant shoes every day (we all need our regular work shoes and boots, and I don't have a chauffeur-driven car, much to my disappointment). However, I am on high shoe alert, as party season is approaching. So right now I'm hunting down the best of the best.
Bettina Looney sharing a pair of strappy sandals from Italian brand Gedebe.
A few seasons ago, I remember some of the industry's most important buyers informing editors that consumers were showing more and more interest in OTT fancy footwear and elaborate eveningwear to match.
It has been some time since stilettos have been in fashion, and the idea of dressing up for a night out is often considered a tad passé (it's thought to be so much cooler to be "effortless"). But that tide is turning. I, for one, adore getting ready for an event with the opportunity to wear something that's wildly different from the daily workwear grind. Give me all the lamé, crystals and bows, and I'll be as happy as can be.
Nothing makes my heart flutter (or my online wish lists expand) quite like a wonderful pair of evening shoes. Why? Because they compliment a maximalist outfit or a regular jeans-and-cashmere sweater outfit. In fact, I've just invested in a pair of satin, bejewelled Marni T-bar shoes because they are ridiculously outré. I love that they have a small kitten heel, making them a practical party option.
Should you be a high-heel lover, this edit is for you. No flats. No sneakers. No boots. Nothing sensible or safe whatsoever. Shop my favourite evening shoes below…
The shoe gods are smiling upon me.
Yes, these come with anklet. Yes, that's another reason to buy them.
Satin is definitely a big part of the party scene of 2018.
Hot, hot, hot.
When you want something a tad simpler, opt for strappies.
Basically Christmas as a shoe.
An unusual bit of decoration for an affordable brand.
These are the ones I bought. I went for the classic black because I knew I'd likely spill wine on these.
More Kate Moss than K.Mids.
Like dancer shoes.
Entrance-making stuff right here.
Just stunning.
Leopard? Check. Cerise pink? Check. Good heel height for dancing? Check.
Also great for wedding season.
Pretend they're from the '70s.
A Carrie Bradshaw–worthy classic.
Wear with a tuxedo and watch them go.
Related: I Spent Hours Looking At Zara's Party Shoes—These Pairs Blew My Mind
If you're very good at walking in heels…
A street style favourite and future classic.
Old Hollywood kind of mules.
If Marie Antoinette wore stilettos, she would have chosen these.
Adorable.
Snaking ankle straps are coming back from the '00s.
The most festive feet you'll ever see.
Probably the tamest pair here, but a really solid "go with everything" option.
The kind that will keep coming back into fashion.
These also come in teal velvet.Next up, the best party dresses for your perusal.
-
Hold the Black Shoes—7 Fresh Alternatives That Are Just as Chic for Summer 2025Some fresh options.
-
Every Season Has a Fun Heel Trend—This Is the One People Will Wear With Jeans This SummerDua Lipa is on board.
-
Dakota Johnson Just Wore the Specific Shoe Trend that Makes Black Dresses Much More InterestingIt's seriously effective.
-
Live From the Streets of New York: This Sophisticated Heel Is Making a Huge ComebackTake a peep at this.
-
The Anti-Flat Summer Shoe That Makes Dresses and Jeans Look Much More ElegantIt comes Alexa Chung-approved.
-
People With Cool Style Are Suddenly Wearing This Vintagey Heel Trend With Pants and SkirtsI'd take a break from flats for these.
-
Only the Trendiest People Are Wearing This Shoe Colour Instead of Black and TanStep into summer.
-
No Doubt About It—This Specific Sandal Makes Long Shorts Look Extremely ElegantIt's definitely a thing.
