The First Viral Shoes of 2024 Are Here

by Eliza Huber

We're no more than mere days into 2024, and already, the year's first footwear phenomenon has taken hold, commanding over Instagram and single-handedly ushering in a very chic but slightly uncomfortable 366 days. Its name is Lee. Crafted by Saint Laurent's creative director since 2016, Anthony Vaccarello, the Lee is a 4.25-inch geometric stiletto with a heel that's varnished in the same color of the exaggerated buckle that fastens its patent-leather slingback straps to the rest of the shoes. Some variations are available with a black heel if too much gold isn't your thing. Available in six colorways, the style made its debut at the French house's fall/winter 2023 show alongside '80s-inspired corporate ensembles fit for the office siren, and now that its shoppable, fashion's elite, including Laura Harrier and Hailey Bieber, can't seem to get enough.

Scrolling through my Instagram feed over the last few days, I've noticed the vampy stilettos on a near-constant basis, often styled alongside other pieces from the fall collection, including pencil skirts, sheer and low-cut tank tops, and shoulder-padded oversize blazers. Hosiery is a must with these, and extra-sheer tights are the primary pick for most of the wearers I've seen. According to Vogue, the goal of Vaccarello's collection was to hit on the concept of elegance and "being dressed." There was a time not long ago when putting on a pencil skirt, stockings, and heels this sky-high would've sent a shutter down most of our spines. That's no longer the case, though, and 2024's early obsession with the Lee silhouette is further proof that comfort is no longer king. This year, a "look at me" outfit will reign supreme over one that satisfies your sense of touch and feel. I love my trusty Uggs, too, but they just don't show off like the Lees will.

Scroll down to learn all about the first viral shoes of 2024.

On the runway:

Runway Look from the Fall/Winter 2023 Saint Laurent Show

Photo:

Saint Laurent/Launchmetrics Spotlight

Made of 100% calfskin leather in Italy, the Lee heels, shown above on the runway in Paris, are as well crafted as they are daringly high.

Close-Up Runway Look from the Fall/Winter 2023 Saint Laurent Show Showing the Lee Heels

Photo:

Saint Laurent/Launchmetrics Spotlight

Even with the tall heel—a stark contrast to the microscopic kitten heels that dominated the trendscape in 2023—the Lee's oversize buckles are still the focal point.

Photo:

Saint Laurent/Launchmetrics Spotlight

Of the six available colors, three are black with variations in material for the leather as well as the heel. The crocodile-embossed and patent-leather options come with the sleek black heel, while a brushed-leather alternative features the aforementioned striking gold one. From there, the Lee is also offered in cognac, brown, and tan.

On Instagram:

Photo:

@camillecharriere

Everyone's favorite London-based French woman took to the library to show off her Lees and accompanying pinstripe ensemble. The glasses really drove the look home.

Photo:

@oumaymaboumeshouli

Moroccan stylist Oumayma Elboumeshouli's runway gloves, jewelry, and belt further emphasize Vaccarello's intention to create impactful ensembles. Still, my eyes went straight to the shoes.

Photo:

@christietyler

If you're daring like NYC tastemaker Christie Tyler, you'll even try your hand at walking on the beach in yours. (I wish you all the luck in the world.)

Photo:

@rosiehw

Quiet-luxury expert Rosie Huntington-Whiteley has been donning her Lee heels with everything from trousers to jeans since they came out.

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