Versatile and comfortable? Sign me up.
Some of Rihanna’s recent fashion moments include candy pink hair and dramatic leopard-print coats, though if you dig through her outfits, you’ll find a few surprisingly unfussy separates that everyone can integrate into their wardrobes. Case in point: her latest monochrome ensemble.
Spotted in New York City, Rihanna wore a super cozy hoodie, fluffy overcoat, and satin maxi skirt, which are all pieces that can be repurposed for everyday wear. She slipped on a pair of extraterrestrial sunglasses, layered necklaces, and a jumbo Chanel flap bag, but her versatile slingback pumps are what really captured my attention.
Sam Edelman Bianka Slingback Pump
Buy on Nordstrom $140 $98
Steve Madden Legaci Kitten Heel Pointed-Toe Pump
Buy on Nordstrom $100 $70
Rihanna’s shoes featured an exaggerated front, squared-off toe, thin back strap, and low heel. The patent leather glimmered in the light, adding a luxurious touch, while the black hue made them super practical.
I traded in my soaring pumps for similar kitten heels this spring, and I haven’t looked back. The easy height makes commuting to work, heading to dinner, and frolicking around the city unchallenging, offering a chic, comfy style I reach for at least once a week. It’s also subtly sexy, elongating the leg without screaming for attention; it’s essentially the definition of quiet luxury.
The mini pump can be styled so many different ways, coordinating flawlessly with midi dresses, denim skirts, satin trousers, and puff-sleeve blouses. One of my favorite ways to wear the shoe is with bootcut jeans, delivering a clean, lengthened look that flatters nearly every body type.
Don’t be surprised if your sisters, mothers, and grandmothers come out of the woodwork looking to steal your Rihanna-inspired pumps. They’re ageless and timeless, fitting into a plethora of lifestyles and age brackets—that’s why we at InStyle even predicted that slingback pumps would be one of spring 2024’s hottest shoe trends.
Shop coveted black slingback heels, below, including finds with patent leather, smooth finishes, and buckle details.
Get the Look:
Jeffrey Campbell Persona Slingback Pump
Shop now: $109 (Originally $155); nordstrom.com
Madewell Debbie Slingback Pump
Shop now: $158; madewell.com
Franco Sarto Khloe Pointed-Toe Kitten-Heel Pump
Shop now: $94 (Originally $125); nordstrom.com
Cole Haan Vandam Slingback Pump
Shop now: $150; nordstrom.com
Marc Fisher LTD Larysa Pointed-Toe Kitten-Heel Slingback Pump
Shop now: $112 (Originally $140); nordstrom.com
Steve Madden Loca Slingback Pointed-Toe Pump
Shop now: $70 (Originally $100); nordstrom.com
Naturalizer Tansy Pump
Shop now: $80 (Originally $99); amazon.com
Genshuo Slingback Pointed-Toe Pump
Shop now: $29 with coupon (Originally $36); amazon.com