The 10 Best Designer Shoes Worth Investing In

Love designer shoes? Here’s a roundup of the best designer shoes for this season, from boots to sandals to sneakers.

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This post will show you the best designer shoes from top luxury brands in 2022.

Best Designer Shoes

As Carrie Bradshaw once said, “I have this little substance abuse problem… expensive footwear.”

Carrie loved her designer shoes, and I can’t blame her! A beautiful pair of shoes can totally transform any outfit. And while there are plenty of fabulous footwear options that aren’t designer, there’s no denying that certain designer shoes can be worth their costly price tags. With expert craftsmanship, elite materials, and cutting-edge trend appeal, you may want to splurge on a pair of designer shoes for yourself.

But if you’re going to be dropping some serious coin on footwear – whether now or in the future – you should make your investment wisely with our guide to the 10 best designer shoes of 2022. (And yes, buying designer items can be an investment since there’s always resale value to consider.)

{RELATED POST: The Best Designer Bags from Top Luxury Brands}

That’s why we’re helping you find the perfect shoe with our 10 best designer shoe picks from top luxury brands in 2022. Read on and find out what designer footwear is CF-approved and actually worth investing in.

(If you’re looking for something specific, we have guides to the best designer heels, the best designer flats, and the best designer bridal shoes. And if you want to sell them someday, see our guide to where to sell designer shoes.)

Best Designer Shoes

1. Prada Nappa Leather Sandals

This season, it’s all about “dad sandals.” Chunky, sporty styles with footbeds and double straps are one of the hottest styles for Spring/Summer 2022, and luckily, they are as comfortable as they are trendy.

A fashion blogger favorite, these Prada sandals feature a quilted design and subtle logos on the straps, along with lug treaded soles. Since these are sporty rather than delicate or flimsy, you’ll be able to wear these comfortably on days filled with lots of walking.

Plus, they look just as cool with dresses as they do with shorts or jeans; they’re actually more versatile than you may think!

Specs:

  • Price: $1,100
  • Style: Sporty double-strap sandals
  • Material: Leather
  • Size Range: 34.5 – 41.5
  • Colors: Black, White, Beige

Recommended For: Someone who wants to be on-trend and/or is looking for comfortable sandals that they can wear every day.

Pros:

  • On-trend; the “it” shoe of the season!
  • Comfortable and good for walking.
  • Easy on/off with velcro straps.

Cons:

  • Can look a bit bulky.
  • Not understated; very bold.

Related reading: Best Online Designer Stores: Where to Shop Online for Designer & Luxury Pieces

2. Hermès Oran Sandals

The Hermès Oran sandals are an enduring classic and one of the chicest pairs of sandals on the market.

The low-profile design makes these ultra-versatile, and since they are slides, they’re easy to slip on and off. I adore the “H”-shaped straps which are an Hermès signature, yet are still understated (as opposed to an over-the-top logo).

These sandals come in an array of colors and can be worn with both casual and dressy looks, making them a shoe you will surely get plenty of wear out of. They seriously go with everything!

Specs:

  • Price: $660
  • Style: Flat slide sandal
  • Material: Leather
  • Size Range: 34 – 42
  • Colors: Brown, Black, White, Silver, Khaki, Red Shearling, Black with Silver Studs, Black and Canvas

Recommended For: Anyone looking for an easy-going sandal that will always be in style.

Pros:

  • Easy to slide on and off; uncomplicated design.
  • Very versatile design that can be worn with both casual and dressy looks.
  • Relatively affordable compared to other designer shoes on this list.

Cons:

  • Ultra-flat design offers little foot support.
  • Popular style that many others have.

3. Christian Louboutin Pigalle Follies Pumps

You’ll know the “red bottoms” when you see them – of course, Louboutins (or “Loubs”) take the cake for best heels.

If you’re looking to invest in a classic pair of designer pumps, you can’t go wrong with Christian Louboutin stilettos. The renowned shoe designer is practically synonymous with women’s high heels, and the signature red soles are widely recognizable (and coveted!).

A pointy toe pump will never go out of style, and while there are many colors and materials to choose from, black patent leather is both classic and youthful at the same time. It gives the shoes a little added flair while still being a mainstay that you can wear for years to come.

Specs:

  • Price: $775
  • Style: Pointy-toe pumps
  • Material: Patent leather
  • Size Range: 34 – 43
  • Colors: Black, Nude

Recommended For: Someone looking for classic heels with a luxe edge.

Pros:

  • Classic pump style.
  • Recognizable “red bottoms” make a statement.
  • Patent leather can be very durable.

Cons:

  • The high stiletto heel may be difficult to walk in.
  • The pointy toe may be uncomfortable.

4. Balenciaga Void Ankle-Strap High Heel Sandals

Shopping for some chic high heel sandals? Balenciaga’s Void sandals with an ankle strap and square toe are the definition of minimalist cool.

The simple yet statement-making design is highly versatile and going to look incredible with dresses, skirts, denim… you name it!

Though at first glance these seem like a basic pair of strappy sandals, the slanted heel gives them a unique look that makes them special. They may not boast a designer logo anywhere to be seen, but these sculptural details are oh-so-Balenciaga.

Specs:

  • Price: $775
  • Style: Ankle-strap high heel sandals
  • Material: Leather
  • Colors: Black, Pink

Recommended For: Anyone looking to upgrade their go-to heeled sandals for an elevated pair.

Pros:

  • Versatile, minimalist design that works with a ton of different styles and outfits.
  • Adjustable ankle strap.
  • Unique heel shape.

Cons:

  • No obvious designer logo (if you prefer one).
  • May not be super comfortable.

5. Chanel Ballerina Flats

When it comes to flats, it doesn’t get more classic than a pair of Chanel Ballerinas. Originally designed by Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel’s signature cap-toe flats are timeless and elegant.

With plenty of colors, fabrics, and modified designs to choose from, you’ll certainly be able to find a pair of Chanel Ballerinas that suit your individual style. But if you’re looking to invest in the ultimate classic, opt for this quilted pair with the interlocking double-C logo embroidered on the toe caps. They’ll never go out of style and are unmistakenly Chanel.

Specs:

  • Price: $900
  • Style: Flats
  • Material: Aged calfskin (leather)
  • Colors: Black

Recommended For: Someone who has a classically chic sense of style and is looking for an everyday shoe that will make a subtle statement.

Pros:

  • A very classic style that you’ll be able to wear for years to come.
  • Chanel raises their prices yearly, so the value of these is set to increase.

Cons:

  • The calfskin leather is very soft, which makes it more prone to wear and tear.
  • The soles are leather which can become easily distressed and/or be slippery.

6. Gucci Princetown Loafer Slides

Gucci’s Princetown loafer mules launched a style sensation with their effortlessly chic design. Slip these on and you’ll instantly look polished!

Featuring the distinctive Gucci gold-toned Horsebit, these leather loafers represent understated luxury. You could just as well wear these to school or the workplace as you could during your downtime with denim (or even sweats, as some people do), but however you style them, they totally elevate your appearance.

Though Gucci also offers loafers that are not slip-on style, the ease of these mules are hard to beat.

Related post: How to Wear Loafers for Women (+ Outfit Ideas!)

Specs:

  • Price: $820
  • Style: Slip-on loafers (mules)
  • Material: Leather
  • Size Range: 4 – 12
  • Colors: Black, White

Recommended For: Someone looking for a chic, effortless everyday shoe that will never go out of style.

Pros:

  • Easy to slip on and off.
  • A classic style that is timeless.

Cons:

  • Not ideal for winter months or cold weather.
  • Only gold hardware is available (no silver).

7. Saint Laurent Andy Logo Low-Top Sneakers

A white low-top sneaker is a must in everyone’s wardrobe, and if you’re looking for an elevated pair, consider Saint Laurent’s Andy Logo low-top sneakers.

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These simple yet elegant sneakers can be worn with just about anything, and their subtle gold foil-stamped logo next to the laces add a luxe touch.

As with all white sneakers, you’ll want to be cautious about getting them dirty – don’t forget to treat them with a stain and water repellent to keep them looking fresh.

Specs:

  • Price: $650
  • Style: Low-top sneakers
  • Material: Leather
  • Size Range: 34 – 42
  • Colors: White

Recommended For: Anyone with a casual sense of style or who wants to invest in a practical yet upscale pair of white sneakers to go with everything in their wardrobe.

Pros:

  • Very versatile; can be worn with just about anything.
  • Classic design will not ever go out of style.
  • On the more affordable end of the designer shoe spectrum.

Cons:

  • Prone to getting dirty or scuffed due to the white leather exterior.
  • Not an incredibly unique or exclusive design; could find a similar non-designer pair for a lot less.

Related reading: What to Wear with Yeezys: How to Style Every Pair

8. Bottega Veneta Lug Boots

Bottega Veneta’s lug-sole boots have Hailey Bieber‘s stamp of approval, and ours, too.

These chunky flatform boots are one of the brand’s most coveted designs, and their cool, rugged look is going to make you feel like a (fashionable) badass.

And though they seem best suited for the fall and winter seasons, you can totally rock these with denim shorts as Hailey did for a model-off-duty vibe.

Specs:

  • Price: $1,350
  • Style: Chelsea boots
  • Material: Leather
  • Size Range: 34 – 41
  • Colors: Black, Brown, Green, White, Off-White, Tan

Recommended For: Fashionistas looking for functional yet trendy boots.

Pros:

  • Sturdy and good for inclement weather.
  • Easy to put on/take off thanks to elastic gore sides.

Cons:

  • Might look a bit bulky.
  • Mid-calf length shaft can be trickier to style than ankle or knee-high boots.

9. Prada Logo Square Toe Booties

Who doesn’t need a go-to pair of black ankle booties in their closet? I just love the simple statement that these Prada square-toe ankle booties make. They feature a basic design that is ultra-versatile, yet the iconic Prada triangle logo on the side of the boots gives them that unmistakable designer touch. Elements like the square toe and mid-height block heel add to the booties’ appeal.

IMO, these booties are one of the best shoe investments from this list, because black ankle booties are a true style staple, and this pair checks all the boxes.

Specs:

  • Price: $1,250
  • Style: Ankle booties
  • Material: Leather
  • Size Range: 5 – 12
  • Colors: Black, Brown

Recommended For: Someone searching for a staple pair of black ankle booties with a hint of designer flair.

Pros:

  • Very versatile.
  • Heel height is manageable and can be worn day or night.
  • Easy side-zip closures.

Cons:

  • Square-toe design may not appeal to everyone.
  • Some may consider the designer logo to be too prominent.

10. Mach & Mach Crystal Double Bow Pointed Toe Pumps

Make a style statement with Mach & Mach’s Crystal Double Bow pumps. These ankle-strap heels with a pointed toe couldn’t be more fabulous!

The ultra-feminine design features crystal detailing all over, including the brand’s signature crystal double bow. They’ll instantly become the highlight of your outfit with their sparkly, eye-catching design.

This fancy pair of footwear is ideal for a special event like a birthday, a wedding, or other dressy occasion.

Specs:

  • Price: $1,095
  • Style: Ankle-strap pumps
  • Material: Textile and leather lining/sole
  • Size Range: 5 – 12
  • Colors: Black, Silver, Light Pink, Hot Pink, Blue, Red

Recommended For: Someone who isn’t afraid to shine and make a statement, or will be attending a special event.

Pros:

  • Very trendy and considered an “it” shoe.
  • Fancy enough for dressy occasions or a special event.

Cons:

  • Not super versatile.
  • Delicate; may need to be cautious not to get them dirty, scuffed, or have a rhinestone fall off.
  • Several “knockoffs” on the market.

What do you think of our best designer shoe round-up?

For more on high-end fashion, be sure to see our guide to the best luxury watches for women.

Would you wear these shoes? Which shoes are your favorite? Leave a comment and let us know!

1 thought on “The 10 Best Designer Shoes Worth Investing In”

  1. I will still stick to maximum heel less than 1 1/2 inches, Prada square toe ankle boots, saint lauren white sneaker, thanks

    Reply

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