Over 60 Years Later, These Are Still the Shoes Every Fashion Editor Wants
Despite the fact that the iconic two-tone Chanel pumps were designed over 60 years ago, they're still one of the most-coveted pairs of shoes. Every season, a new iteration comes out, and immediately they sell out. But what, we hear you cry, makes them so perennially popular? Designed in 1957 by Coco Chanel, the two-tone shoes, which were initially slingbacks, were meant to mimic men's shoes at the time. It was also considered to be a universally flattering style. Thanks to the contrast-colour toe, the shoes made both the foot look smaller and the leg longer. Clever, eh?
Women in 1957 wearing the two-tone Chanel pumps
Of course, the shoes took off, and ever since then, we've seen the familiar Chanel pump every fashion week and in numerous street style shots. Incredibly, the shoes have hardly differed from their original design, with the toe always in a contrasting hue. While there might now be a range of different colourways, not to mention numerous copies on the high street, the shoes are still one of the most popular and the most-photographed heels in the world.
Keep scrolling to click through our gallery of vintage-Chanel-pump pictures, street style snaps, and where to get your hands on the iconic design today.
Style Notes: Actress Claudine Auger at Chanel's HQ in Paris in 1960 wearing the two-tone pumps.
Style Notes: Jump ahead 15 years to 1975, and you can see that the design has barely changed. A model wears a coat, dress and the signature pumps from the Chanel S/S 75 collection.
Style Notes: Skip to the early '90s, and once again the Chanel pumps take centre stage on Linda Evangelista walking for the house in 1992.
Style Notes: If you know anything about Eva Chen, then you know she's a big fan of the two-tone pumps.
Style Notes: Proof that the classic slingbacks are still in fashion. The modern way to wear them is with cropped jeans, of course.
Style Notes: Want to ensure your Chanel pumps stand out? Just opt for a classic pair of blue jeans and a simple (but directional) jumper.
Style Notes: The two-tone pumps also come in ballerina-style shoes too.
Style Notes: No surprise that Gilda Ambrosio of Attico owns a pair of these shoes.
Style Notes: The slingback pumps still look just as good in a white-and-black colour combo.
Style Notes: Whatever your style, you can guarantee that Chanel pumps will suit your look and add a final touch of polish.
Style Notes: To embrace the total Chanel look, pair with a tweed skirt suit.
Style Notes: Our favourite way to style Chanel pumps is with a white T-shirt and jeans.
Style Notes: Pair your slingbacks with a denim midi skirt for a modern, on-trend take.
Style Notes: Another winning way to style your Chanel slingbacks? With a tweed jacket, of course.
Style Notes: Chanel's flat slingbacks also have our full attention.
Style Notes: Of course, the shoes always look fabulous styled with other Chanel accessories.
Shop the Pumps:
Just gorgeous. I'd wear these with blue jeans and a crisp white shirt.
Shop More Slingbacks:
Trust M&S to create a comfy yet chic block-heel style.
These would look so pretty paired with a floral midi dress for a wedding guest look.
The flat version of M&S's designer-style slingbacks are selling out fast.
This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has been updated.
Next Up: Spring/Summer 2023 Fashion Trends: 21 Expert-Approved Looks You Need to See
-
Prepare Your Wallet: 7 Jewelry Brands Running Deep Discounts for Black Friday
Snag that tennis bracelet for 40% off.
By Ana Escalante
-
I'm a Professional Shopper—30 Elegant Picks I'm Eyeing From Mango, COS, and Nordstrom
These are too chic to pass up.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Mary-Kate Olsen Just Wore This Quirky Flat-Shoe Trend With a Classic Mary-Kate Outfit
Another iconic Olsen look.
By Allyson Payer
-
So Many of My Favorite Outfits Right Now Include This Flat Shoe Style
I guess it's a sign to buy a pair.
By Allyson Payer
-
Black Shoes, Watch Out—This Alternative Color Is Chicer, More Elegant, and Just as Classic
Brown *just might* be the new black.
By Copelyn Bengel
-
Hailey Bieber Just Wore the Flat Shoe Trend That Makes Jeans Look Classier Every Time
See for yourself.
By Allyson Payer
-
Sorry, Loafers—Fashion People Are Wearing Jeans and Leggings With These Almost-Flat Shoes
Level up your winter flats.
By Natalie Munro
-
9 Trends Set to Define Spring 2025 Fashion
What to know from the spring/summer 2025 runways.
By Eliza Huber