I Tried on 15 Pairs of Cult Designer Shoes—These 4 Are Worth the Hype

by Kristen Nichols

As a digital fashion editor, I log many hours a week hunting down the best of the best in online shopping and personally make most of my fashion purchases on the internet. That being said, there are some pieces I still love to try on in person before making the investment, including shoes. Since fit, comfort, and sizing are easiest to test-drive in person when trying shoes on, I headed to some local stores in Los Angeles to try on some designer styles I've been considering.

I've specifically been eyeing some of the cult designer styles and major shoe trends that have been on-the-rise this season and throughout the year. I tried on 15 different styles ranging from heels to loafers to boots. While some didn't live up to the hype, I narrowed in on four styles that I would recommend. Ahead, see the cool designer shoe styles from Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, and Balenciaga that I think are worth the investment.

Cool designer shoe styles: Saint Laurent crystal shoes

Photo:

@kristenmarienichols

Saint Laurent's netted crystal shoes aren't new this season. In fact, they're been around since last year, but I'm equally excited about them now as the moment they were released in 2021. Heading into the holidays, I've been eyeing some of the showstopping party shoes that are on the market, but Saint Laurent's sparkling heels remain at the top of my personal shopping list. I was intrigued to try them in person and am happy to report that they are just as stunning IRL. The extra-tall stiletto heels mean that they're not comfortable enough to stand in for a long night, but I was pleasantly surprised to find out that they are easier to walk in than they might appear.

Photo:

@kristenmarienichols

Styling Notes: Since these heels are so eye-catching, they are perfect to pair with a simple slip dress for a festive, yet sleek look.

Cool designer shoe styles: Bottega Veneta wedge boots

Photo:

@kristenmarienichols

Wedges are a shoe silhouette that has notoriously taken a lot of heat. I've personally sworn off of wedges in the past—that is, until I warmed up to some of the directional styles on the market in the last year. Bottega Veneta wins out for the style I've been thinking about most and I've been eager to try out this specific pair of wedge boots. Oftentimes, booties can be tricky because they might be too tight or too loose around the ankles, but these strike the perfect fit. A cool alternative to basic ankle boots, they're officially landed on the must-buy list for me.

Photo:

@kristenmarienichols

Styling Notes: I personally wouldn't style these ankle boots with a midi skirt as pictured here. Instead, I would pair them with a tailored pantsuit.

Cool designer shoe styles: Balenciaga Cagole heels

Photo:

@kristenmarienichols

Balenciaga's Cagole bags and shoes have carved themselves out as the It accessories of 2022. While the shoulder bags and knee-high boots have been some of the most talked-about styles, I've been equally excited about the open-toe sandals. Stepping into them, I'm here to report that they are extremely comfortable. The three-inch heels are just enough height, while still a breeze to walk in.

Photo:

@kristenmarienichols

Styling Notes: The tough hardware details make these a great shoe to pair with jeans to dress them up.

Cool designer shoe styles: Saint Laurent Blade heels

Photo:

@kristenmarienichols

I already own a pair of Saint Laurent's Blade heels from an earlier generation and they are one of my most-worn pairs of shoes, period. Now that the brand has released updated versions, I've been curious to try them out. In particular, I'm drawn to this elegant faux-croc pair with gold hardware. The shape and fit are perfect, and I can already imagine a million outfits to wear them with. Consider these the next new addition to my closet.

Photo:

@kristenmarienichols

Styling Notes: The styling options are practically endless—I would pair these with everything from relaxed trousers to a tailored winter coat to a maxi skirt.