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There are few shoes with a longer afterlife than the slingback. Introduced as a practical evening style, it has been reinterpreted by every house worth mentioning — and it remains the pair that makes a plain white shirt and tailored trouser feel finished.
Why it works
The open heel keeps the line light, while the pointed toe lengthens the foot. A six-centimetre heel is comfortable enough for a long lunch and formal enough for dinner. It is, in the truest sense, a useful shoe.
How to wear it now
Let the shoe lead. A straight-leg jean, a silk shirt and a structured bag are enough. If you are choosing a first pair, black cannage or a warm nude will carry you through every season.