Editors' Picks: The Best Shoe Brands to Splurge and Save On
It wouldn’t be an overstatement to say that here at Who What Wear we’re a bit shoe-obsessed. From mastering how to stand in them, to uncovering shoe-buying mistakes, to learning bizarre shoe-facts, and, of course, to shopping the latest styles, we simply can’t get enough. That’s why, today, we’re bringing you our editors’ favorite shoe brands—but not just one each. We’ve chosen the brands we like to splurge on, as well as the one we save on.
Keep scrolling to discover 12 brands for every budget.
"I have a really hard time finding stilettos that don't totally kill my feet, because I was blessed from birth with extremely high arches. Heels are my enemy, but also one of my great loves in life—so you can imagine my delight with I got my first pair of Weitzman Nouveau pumps and didn't experience intense pain with each wear! I just love them. They're a classic silhouette, but they come in a lot of fun colors too."
Stuart Weitzman The Nouveau Pump ($365) in Black Patent
"When I need to get a decent pair of shoes on a budget, I head to Aldo. You have to do a bit more work to find something really great, but when you do, it's a major win. Their Aldo Rise capsule is of particular note—they partner with rising designers to offer modern and edgy pairs that still aren't too pricey."
Aldo XYLO Heels ($120) in Navy
"It's always a treat to see what new styles arrive at Acne Studios each season. The true definition of eye candy, perhaps?"
Acne Studios Adriana Sneakers ($400) in Grain White
"I think I actually probably wear my Supergas too much, but I love how versatile they are. I can wear them with a leather jacket and midi skirt and not feel overly-dressed, or with my tank and leggings on the way to yoga and feel a little more polished."
Superga 2750 Cotu Classic ($65) in White
"Acne Studios releases the coolest, most unique shoes season after season (and they're actually comfortable!). No one does ankle boots better, if you ask me. Bonus: Their pink shoe-boxes are the best!"
Acne Studios Mara Sandals ($600) in Beige/Yellow
"Zara is my go-to for trendy styles. They're sturdy, yet totally affordable. Plus, they release new styles on a weekly basis, so there's never a dull moment!"
Zara Silk Satin Sandals ($80) in Black
"I never tire of Marni's funky art-teacher aesthetic, plus most of their heels are of the chunky variety, meaning I can walk in them all evening."
Marni Flared Heel Sandals ($760) in Black
"When it comes to loafers, nothing beats Bass."
Bass Wayferer Iconic Loafer ($60) in Maroon
"So this is an ironic choice for me because I'm not a big fan of what Hedi Slimane has done to Saint Laurent overall, but he's done an awesome overhaul of the brand’s shoe offerings. While the Tributes are iconic, they're a little too much for me—it's the boots and sneakers that I can't get enough of."
Saint Laurent Wyatt Ankle Botts ($995) in Light Brown
"Now, don't get me wrong, I don't just throw my money at these shoes either—they're not that cheap. But comparatively they're a steal, the sneakers and sandals especially. And they're so well-made and versatile that the purchase is always worthwhile."
Vince Open Toe ankle Strap Sandals – Gita ($277) in Woodsmoke
"When I’m not wearing my own Gianvito Rossi sandals to death, I’m probably borrowing my sister’s. To put it simply, Rossi’s shoes are just the best. He has a way of perfecting the simplest and most classic shoe styles to the point that you really don’t need any thing else. That said, you can never have enough shoes."
Gianvito Rossi Crisscross Ankle Strap Sandals ($835) in Black
"I’ve been wearing (and loving) Topshop’s shoes since high school, and continue to do so to this day. Their heels and boots especially have always looked way more expensive than their $100-adjacent price tags, and they have a range of both classic and trendy options."
Topshop Grand Suede Mules ($105) in Black
What are your favorite shoe brands? Share them with us in the comments!