Fashion Influence — how style shapes, and is shaped by, the people who wear it
Slingbacks are a style of women's shoe characterized by an open back and a strap that goes around the heel or ankle, securing the shoe in place, while the front can be peep-toe, closed-toe or sandal-like. This short guide is expanded below with the style's history and its occasion range, from low-heeled casual versions to embellished evening heels.
Slingbacks are a style of women's shoe characterized by an open back and a strap that goes around the heel or ankle, securing the shoe in place. The front of the shoe can vary in design, including peep-toe, closed-toe, or a more sandal-like appearance. What sets slingbacks apart is the distinctive strap, which gives them a unique and elegant look. These shoes typically feature varying heel heights, making them versatile for different occasions.
History:
The slingback style gained popularity in the early 20th century. It is believed that Italian designer Salvatore Ferragamo introduced the modern slingback in the 1930s. He used an elasticized band in the strap to improve the fit and comfort of the shoe. This innovation made slingbacks more adjustable and allowed for a better grip on the foot. The style gained traction and became a staple in women's fashion.
Occasions:
Slingbacks are versatile and can be worn for various occasions, ranging from casual to formal. The heel height and design of the front vary, making them suitable for different settings:
Casual Wear:
Low-heeled slingbacks with a casual design, such as flat or small wedge heels, can be worn for everyday activities, outings, or relaxed gatherings.
Work or Office:
Slingbacks with moderate heels and a polished design are suitable for professional settings. They provide a formal touch to business attire without compromising on comfort.
Evening or Formal Events:
High-heeled slingbacks with elegant features like embellishments, peep-toe fronts, or a sophisticated design are perfect for formal events, parties, weddings, or dinners. They add a glamorous touch to eveningwear.
Summer or Warm Weather:
Slingback sandals, often featuring an open-toe design and a breathable front, are great for warm weather. They can be paired with sundresses, skirts, or shorts for a stylish and comfortable look.
Slingbacks have stood the test of time due to their timeless design and adaptability to various fashion trends. Their blend of style and functionality makes them a popular choice for women looking for a chic and comfortable heel for different occasions.
Learn more about shoes here on Apparel Search.
The slingback's whole design rests on one strap doing two jobs. With the back of the shoe open, the strap around the heel or ankle is the only thing holding the shoe on, so its fit decides whether the shoe stays secure or slips. That is why the elasticized band mattered: an elastic section lets the strap give as the foot flexes and then recover, keeping the grip without a buckle being set to exactly the right hole. Modern versions use elastic, buckles or a combination of the two to reach the same result.
The open back is also what separates a slingback from its neighbors. A pump closes the heel completely; a sandal opens most of the upper. The slingback sits between them, closed or peep-toe at the front like a dress shoe and open at the back like a sandal, which is why the same basic pattern can be built as a flat for everyday wear, a mid-heel for the office, or a high, embellished heel for evening, with the front design and heel height setting the level of formality each time.
An open back and a strap that goes around the heel or ankle, securing the shoe in place. The front of the shoe varies, peep-toe, closed-toe or a more sandal-like appearance, and heel heights vary, which is what makes slingbacks versatile across occasions.
The style gained popularity in the early 20th century, and Italian designer Salvatore Ferragamo is believed to have introduced the modern slingback in the 1930s. He used an elasticized band in the strap to improve fit and comfort, making the strap more adjustable and giving a better grip on the foot.
Low-heeled or flat casual designs for everyday wear and relaxed gatherings; moderate heels with a polished design for work and office wear; high-heeled, embellished or peep-toe designs for formal events, parties, weddings and dinners; and open-toe slingback sandals for summer and warm weather.