by Gaia Giordani. Images by Zoe Silveyra.
“Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world.” – Marilyn Monroe.
When it comes to fashion, shoes are a girl’s ultimate sidekick. The right pair does more than finish off your outfit; it makes the look. Wouldn’t you agree? From classic stiletto sandals to effortlessly cool flats, iconic designer shoes are the backbone of any cult wardrobe. Here are 10 iconic pairs that will never go out of style, each with its own story to tell, making us dream about them even more—from sky-high heels to sleek flats.
10 Iconic Designer Shoes Every Cult Wardrobe Needs
1) Gianvito Rossi Portofino sandal
This year marks the 10th anniversary of Gianvito Rossi’s iconic, minimalist sandals, which are easily recognisable due to their simple design featuring a strap and a thin ankle strap, embodying total simplicity and iconicity. Available in black or nude, suede or metallic finishes, and a variety of seasonal colours and neutral tones, you can choose heel heights ranging from 2 to 10.5 centimetres. According to the Vogue Italia editors, the best choice for all-day wear is the 8.5 cm heel height.
2) Belle Vivier by Roger Vivier
The “Belle Vivier” shoe, designed by Roger Vivier and introduced in 1965, is the Maison’s most iconic style. It features a distinctive rectangular buckle, which can also be found in matching leather goods like bags and belts, as well as slanted skyscraper heels. Available in various versions, including slingback pumps, ballerinas, ankle boots and sandals, each style showcases a timeless and elegant silhouette. The collection is retro chic like no other, especially in pastel shades.
3) Valentino Rockstud shoe
The Rockstud line, created in 2010 by the then-creative directors Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli, features square, metallic studs that have come to symbolise Valentino Garavani and a declaration of independence with a punk-rock and casual vibe. If you’re looking to stand out, consider the Craig Green x Rockstud X Valentino Garavani trainers.
4) Salvatore Ferragamo Eva
The stiletto is a beloved shoe known for its unconventional minimalism and distinctive oblique heel. Created by the Florentine footwear guru Salvatore Ferragamo and recently reinterpreted by Maximilian Davis, this shoe is a nod to a heritage sandal designed by Ferragamo in 1947, which featured a wooden F-shaped wedge heel.
5) Alaïa Fishnet ballet flats
Inspired by classic Japanese flat sandals, these iconic flats feature a see-through mesh, a buckle strap, a rounded toe, and a rubber sole. Creative director Pieter Mulier has designed them in a variety of styles, including suede, 3D flowers, fur-covered versions, maxi mesh and thin laminated mesh. They really complement any outfit! Luxury and comfort, making them a must-have.
6) Bottega Veneta Padded Mule
You see a weave of leather strips, and you immediately think of the iconic Bottega Veneta pattern. Made from soft calf leather, the padded quilted nappa leather version of the brand’s most emblematic sandals embraces the same concept. These sandals come in flat, kitten-heeled, and 9-centimetre versions, including slingback styles, embodying luxury and comfort.
7) Rick Owens Kiss boots
Bikercore is currently trending and has been spotted on red carpets and stages alike, worn by artists such as Damiano David, Jared Leto, Rosalia and Italian trend-setting pop stars like Mahmood. The Grill Kiss platform Chelsea boots, launched with the Spring/Summer 2020 collection, feature a front bumper and a clear platform heel, paying homage to the band Kiss.
8) Saint Laurent Opyum Ankle Boots
Ankle boots with a pointed toe are always a good idea when looking for a statement pair of shoes that embodies minimalism. The Cassandre heel is iconic, sculpted to resemble the heritage logo of the Maison with the founder’s initials, YSL. This design is also available in pumps and sandals from the brand.
9) Ginza flats by The Row
One of the most sought-after instant classics is the Japanese-inspired platform flip-flops by The Row. These sandals have gained popularity among celebrities, and many fast fashion brands have drawn influence from their minimalist design that complements nearly any outfit. Celebrated as the perfect summer footwear, they exude a strong sense of quiet luxury
10) Louboutin’s Kate (all of them)
Kate, So Kate, and Kate Botta are the golden trio for Christian Louboutin’s most devoted fans. These boots, inspired by Kate Moss, were introduced in 2012 and have since become the quintessential it-shoes. If you don’t already own a pair, the Kate Botta 85 leather knee boots are the way to go. They are perfect for formal occasions and exude sensuality. However, they’re best suited for events where you don’t have to walk extensively, as the 120 mm heels can be quite challenging to navigate.
