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.
The Best Designer Shoes To Invest In

01
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.
Available at:
- $1,375 from Net-A-Porter
- $1,375 from Farfetch

02
Maison Margiela Tabi Ballerina Shoes
$1,430 at Net-A-Porter
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
Available at:
- $1,430 from Net-A-Porter
- $1,565 from Farfetch

03
Christian Louboutin Pigalle 100 Leather Courts
$1,265 at Selfridges
There’s no more classic everyday pump than the red-sole courts from Christian Louboutin. Made from 100% nappa leather, which is known for its buttery-soft feel, this is the kind of timeless shoe you’ll want to pass on to your kid one day.
Colours: Black | Materials: 100% nappa leather.
Available at:
- $1,265 from Selfridges
- $1,330 from Farfetch

04
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.
Available at:
- $1,191 from Net-A-Porter
- $1,473 from FWRD
- $1,635 from SSENSE
- $1,625 from Mytheresa

05
Gucci Horsebit-Detail Leather Loafers
$1,445 at Farfetch
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.
Available at:
- $1,445 from Farfetch

06
Valentino Garavani Rockstud Pumps
$1,680 at Mytheresa
If you asked us to name the most iconic ‘going out’ shoe of the 2010s, it would undoubtedly be the Valentino Rockstud. Available in many colourways, leather finishes and even stud types, the pointed-toe pump was once one of our most coveted shoes. Not much has changed in the past few years, and when styled with a pair of jeans, these are ultra sleek and stylish, with just the right amount of edge.
Colours: Poudre, black, white, red patent, acqua marina, pink, black houndstooth | Materials: Calf leather upper, leather sole and lining.

07
Chanel Slingbacks
$1,770 at Chanel
The Chanel Slingback is a shoe that will suit anyone from any generation. The House’s signature almond-shaped toe, paired with the slingback strap, is lengthening on the leg, and the beige and black colourway is an undeniable classic. It’s available in the flat style shown above, or a higher heel — both are equally chic.
Colours: Beige and black, black, pink tweed and black, grey and black | Materials: Goatskin and crosgrain.
Available at:
- $1,770 from Chanel

08
Miu Miu x New Balance 530 SL Suede & Mesh Sneakers
$1,780 at Miu Miu
If you’re looking to invest in a pair of designer sneakers that isn’t too loud and won’t date quickly, the Miu Miu and New Balance collaboration is definitely the one to look at. With white and off-white panelling, plus suede, mesh and fabric inserts, we’re big fans of the casual luxury these sneakers bring to any outfit.
Colours: White | Materials: Upper with suede inserts, fabric lining, rubber sole.
Available at:
- $1,780 from Miu Miu

09
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.
Available at:
- $2,980 from Net-A-Porter
- $2,980 from Farfetch

10
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.
Available at:
- $1,625 from Saint Laurent
- $2,180 from Farfetch

11
Tory Burch Pierced Leather Mules
$670 at Farfetch
For lovers of minimalist shoes that are anything but boring, may we introduce you to the pierced mules from Tory Burch? The pierced toe detail coupled with the reverse heel make these the type of shoes that will have people doing a double take, thanks to the timeless overall design that’s just a little bit more fun.
Sizes: Black, coffee brown, red, silver, stone grey, cantucci | Colours: 100% leather.
Available at:
- $670 from Farfetch
- $660 from Tory Burch

12
Toteme Croc-Effect Leather Knee Boot
$1,750 at Net-A-Porter
If you choose carefully, a statement knee-high boot is one piece you’ll only need to buy once. The Toteme boot will fill that precise spot in your wardrobe. With a low 50mm heel that makes them perfect for commutes, walks, and big nights out, and a wide leg that allows you to pull them on and off with little effort, it’s the everyday boot that’s a bit more special.
Colours: Black, chocolate | Materials: Sheep leather.
Available at:
- $1,750 from Net-A-Porter

13
Miu Miu Ballerina Flats
$1,580 at Farfetch
Though some may categorise the Miu Miu satin ballerina flat as a trend shoe rather than timeless, we’d disagree. The low profile and soft fabrication make for a comfortable feel, while the strap keeps everything secure and in place — both making this a wearable option for everyday.
Colours: Black, green, beige, brown, pink, white | Materials: Fabric upper, leather and rubber sole.