The Chanel slingbacks are a classic and iconic shoe style that’s been a mainstay in the fashion world for decades. From fashion editors to wealthy upper east side matrons, this particular shoe is an absolute cult item. But does the price tag match the reputation?
The story of Chanel slingbacks began in 1957, when Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel introduced the design as part of her 1957 Spring/Summer collection. The shoes were originally created as a comfortable yet stylish alternative to the high-heeled shoes that were popular at the time, with the 5cm block heel (early designs were also made with a kitten heel) much lower than the popular stiletto. I covered the Chanel exhibition at the NGV here in Melbourne and the post has plenty of photos of some of the earliest iterations of Gabrielle’s vision for these shoes.
Characterised by their two-tone design, they feature a beige upper and a black toe cap, as well as a low heel and a strap that wraps around the back of the ankle. Fun fact: the beige and black colour combination was inspired by the colours of the uniforms worn by the nuns at the orphanage where Chanel grew up.
The original slingbacks were made from leather, however over the years they’ve been updated and reinterpreted in various materials, colours, and heel heights. When Karl Lagerfeld took over the at the helm in 1983 he instantly reimagined them in tweed. The classic two-tone design remains a signature of the style and is instantly recognisable as the one and only Chanel slingback.
You leave in the morning with beige and black, you dine with beige and black, you go for a cocktail with beige and black. You’re dressed from morning to evening!
Gabrielle Chanel
So are these shoes worth the hefty price tag?
The value of a pair can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the specific style, size, condition, and rarity of the shoes. Generally, Chanel slingbacks are considered to be luxury designer shoes and can command a higher price point than more mass-produced footwear. The average price is around $900US, the Chanel website here in Australia prices they at $1540AUD. That’s a lot of money for a fairly basic pair of shoes right?
It’s widely understood they are a narrow cut, not dissimilar to the Ferragamo Vara pumps (incidentally sharing a similar price tag to boot) This means that they’re simply not going to be comfortable for everyone, despite Coco’s best intentions. The sling back part may be annoying as well if you don’t like the feeling of a strap around your heel. I’m quite used to suffering for fashion and I would put these at a low – medium level of discomfort. I’ve worn them all day at work where I sit and stand, but I wouldn’t want to pound the pavements in them for block upon block if you get my drift. Honestly if you were doing that you’d have to have money to burn considering what they cost.
You can buy them second hand, but when buying or selling pre-owned Chanel slingbacks, factors like the age, condition, and rarity of the shoes can also impact their value. Some pre-owned Chanel slingbacks have sold for thousands of dollars at auction or through designer resale websites. If they’re in good nick, you can expect to pay just under retail so what’s the point I say? Just save that little bit more and nab your forever shoe.
In terms of quality they are second to none. I made the choice for the absolute classic pair: made entirely of leather (upper, inner and sole) with a black grosgrain toe. Chanel’s intention with the toe cap was reinforcement, so the shoes would look chic and new with plenty of wear. Smart woman I say.
Then there’s the ‘it’ factor, the cult status, the religious like way these particular shoes are revered. They certainly do elevate every outfit whether it’s denim or a suit. They speak without saying a word, with that air of if-you-know-you-know about them.
So if you combine all these things – the history, comfort and fit, quality and it factor, I would say they are worth it. Anyone who spends a grand on a pair of shoes must be mad, but who are we to judge? Coco certainly wouldn’t have.
