By Silvia Tarini. Cover image by Anja Stroka.
“Good shoes take you good places”
Have you ever wondered how many items are essential to complete a look? You might immediately think of a pair of shoes, of course. From sandals to sneakers, from high heels to loafers, plenty of shoes that can help define your style and identity.
Fashion enthusiasts around here may agree that even though comfort and functionality are important, certain shoes are highly valued for their beautiful design and the sense of power they can provide over the years.
Some people use to call them “iconic shoes”, but we prefer to describe those items as “pieces of art”. And if you do not remember which styles have marked the history of fashion, don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. From morning to evening, here are the shoes for every moment.
Why slingback by Chanel is the queen of iconic shoes
“In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different”, said Coco Chanel. Elegant, timeless and chic, these slingbacks were designed in 1957 and made of beige leather with a black grosgrain toe. The contrast of colours was created to elongate the leg, and shorten and slim down the foot. The strap detail leaving the heel bare has made history. They quickly became an icon of fashion footwear worldwide and still do today.
Horsebit Loafers by Gucci
The perfect, iconic, made-in-Italy shoes for every style: from classic suits to denim jeans, Gucci loafers are just the cherry on top. Aldo Gucci, son of the brand’s founder Guccio, took inspiration from the loafer silhouettes he had spotted during a trip to New York. He then created a leather model topped with a gold “horsebit”, a nod to the brand’s fascination with the equestrian lifestyle, which soon became one of the Florentine brand’s signature features.
Tabi Shoes by Maison Margiela
The label took inspiration from the Japanese footwear used during the 15th century. The Tabi shoe’s unique shape, including a cut between the big toe and the other toes, was believed to help maintain better body balance. Margiela was brave enough to take this peculiar structure and make it a new fashion obsession, perfect for both day and night. Would you wear a Tabi pair of shoes? We certainly do!
Oran Sandals by Hermès
The epitome of elegance with a sophisticated touch, these Hermès sandals are the perfect choice to stay chic but not too formal, the mood we often seek during holidays. Suitable for both women and men, they are a lasting choice that exudes an “old money” aesthetic!
Ballet flat by Valentino
Made iconic by Audrey Hepburn, those go-to shoes are now in vogue again, and we are all ready to wear them! Among all ballet flats, the Valentino flats stand out for their elegance, which brings to mind the atmosphere of classical ballet. It’s worth noting that ballet flats are becoming increasingly trendy for men, too, making them one of the strongest trends for the upcoming season.
Chelsea Boots by Church
Elegant and dynamic, Church’s dapper boots draw inspiration from the equestrian tradition of the British gentry. This iconic footwear is synonymous with good taste, making it a smart option to look stylish on every occasion.
Slippers by Ugg
Did you say comfort? Look no further than UGG’s beloved and iconic shoes, worn for years by the most stylish celebrities who continue to opt for them in different shapes. From mini to slippers, we like them in every possible style, and they save us during the coldest weather!
Arizona by Birkenstock
Hate or love? In recent times, with Margot Robbie wearing a pair in the Barbie movie, Birkenstocks have become such a fashion phenomenon that now everybody wants them!
It’s party time. Get ready to shine with other Iconic shoes
Hangisi by Manolo Blahnik
No doubt, we can say that this shoe created in 2008 is the expression of a timeless high-class silhouette. The shoe has a crystal buckle on top, which is made of 144 different crystal stones found in Italy by the Spanish shoe designer. The Hangisi style has been recreated in different colours, materials, and heel heights. Nearly a piece of jewellery, they’re Blahnik’s most iconic shoes indeed.
Hot Chick by Christian Louboutin
“When I design shoes, comfort is not my focus”, says Christian Louboutin.
The famous stiletto with a pronounced arch creating a V-shape may not be too comfortable, but it’s iconic indeed! It has been worn by celebrities all over the world. Talking about iconic shoes, we have to mention that Louboutin has made himself known globally for the personal touch he gives to every pair of shoes: the illustrious red sole. A true object of desire for all collectors of iconic footwear.
Platform Pumps by Versace
First seen at Versace’s AW21 show, The Platform Pumps by Versace immediately caught the attention of the fashion world thanks to their Y2K aesthetic. No matter how uncomfortable the heels are, those who love the brand will take the risk and rock them anyway.
Begum by Amina Muaddi
Despite the height of the heels, those shoes are easy to wear all day but also a perfect choice for a night out. Created in different colours, they are now true chic icons and Instagram-approved!
Last call for sneakerheads: there’s a gift for you out of our Iconic shoes playlist!
1970 Chuck Taylor by Converse
In 1917, the Converse brand introduced a non-slip basketball shoe, later renamed ‘All Star’. US basketball player and coach Chuck Taylor was essential in popularising the brand and thus added his name to the shoe.
Stan Smith by adidas
Close your eyes and think of a classic white sneaker. What style has come to your mind first? Stan Smith, of course. Originally developed with French player Robert Haillet, it was only in 1978 that adidas renamed the shoe after the American tennis player Stan Smith. Evergreen!
Air Jordan by Nike
The first Air Jordan shoe was produced for basketball player Michael Jordan when he played for the Chicago Bulls. This partnership transformed the way sports stars were marketed and made Nike the world-renowned brand it is today.
New Balance 530
The 530 style has made the brand the new, iconic trend for younger generations. Seen on thousands of trendy girls on Pinterest, they are still the perfect choice for comfort and style at the same time!
