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.
As classic as Chanel shoes come.
If you prefer a little height.
Tweed styles always look so polished.
I’d wear these with everything, from printed midis to straight-leg jeans.
Leather options will stand the test of time.
These pre-loved slingbacks are in excellent condition.
How cute is this pink pair?
Just gorgeous. I’d wear these with blue jeans and a crisp white shirt.
A ecru and navy pair will never go out of style.
This flat pair will be so handy come summer.
So sleek.
Prada’s baby pink slingback heels are just dreamy.
I love this square-toe pair.
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.
Gucci’s iconic slingbacks have my full attention.
Simple yet so stylish.
Why not try a trendy metallic pair?
The flat version of M&S’s designer-style slingbacks are selling out fast.
The perfect heel height.
Another classic Gucci pair you’ll love and wear forever.
This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has been updated.
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