WORDS BY LUCY HARDY
Few names hold the legacy that Saint Laurent does. From the legendary designer himself to influential Creative Director stints from Hedi Slimane and now Anthony Vaccarello, the brand has held its finger firmly on the pulse of fashion for decades, defining and redefining what’s cool — but always retaining its signature Parisian elegance.
And from legends come icons. The lineup of timeless Saint Laurent shoes is at the heart of the brand. Whether it’s the towering Tribute platforms, pumps that look like works of art, strappy Loulou sandals or Court Classic white trainers, there’s a pair for each and every occasion.
We’ve asked six influencers to answer everything you need to know before purchasing your own pair, including all-important questions such as, how do Saint Laurent shoes fit? Are they comfortable to walk in? And how to style Saint Laurent shoes? Read on to find out.
Jaime Xie (@jaimexie)
Based in California
What do you love most about Saint Laurent shoes?
My favourite thing about Saint Laurent is that they are never one to shy away from making a statement with their shoes. Certain styles definitely make you feel like you’re wearing pieces of art! I personally adore and love to collect these bold, fun, and statement heels. I love a sky high stiletto and Saint Laurent heels have such a sexy and feminine silhouette.
What made you choose the Saint Laurent Jamie pumps over the brand’s other styles?
The sweeping black fur, the crystals, the pointed toe, it’s just all perfect! They are exquisite and the shoe being named ‘Jamie’ is just the cherry on top (even though the spelling is slightly off since my name is spelled ‘Jaime’). Some of the brand’s other styles are more simple and classic, making them ideal for everyday wear and more work appropriate. This style comes in two versions, one with crystals on the inner part of the sweeping fur and one without crystals. Of course, I chose the version with crystals! I am always on the hunt for shoes that make a statement and these were love at first sight.
How would you describe the fit? Does the Jaime run true to size?
I would say Saint Laurent Jamie Pumps run slightly small because I typically wear an EU 38.5 or 39 in heels and these are a size 39 and still fit slightly snug, especially in the front. I would suggest going up half a size. They are perfect for those with a more narrow foot. I have wide feet and not all pointed toe pumps are comfortable for me because the toe box can be a bit narrow. But, I am willing to suffer and I’ll sometimes secretly take my shoes off under the table if I’m at a seated dinner!
Are they comfortable to walk in?
The heel is a very manageable 4 inches and pretty comfortable to walk in. I would rate them a 7 out of 10 on comfiness.
How do you style your Saint Laurent shoes?
With this pair, I would go for an all-black look or something more understated so the shoes can be the centre of attention. You can never go wrong with all black and this is the perfect party pump, so a little black dress would be the ideal choice. For something a bit more casual, I would pair them with black leather shorts or leather trousers and a pretty blouse or crop top.
Erika Fox (@retroflame)
Based in New York City
What do you love most about Saint Laurent shoes?
Saint Laurent has always been my favourite designer because of the amazing quality. I currently have two pairs of Saint Laurent shoes and I can honestly say that they are two of my most worn designer shoes. I think this is because the pieces are so classic, whilst still keeping in line with current trends.
What made you choose the Saint Laurent Loulou sandals over the brand’s other styles?
I remember seeing the style on either Instagram or Pinterest and I just fell in love. Personally, I love to keep my accessories neutral and I was really missing a pair of black comfortable heels in my collection. I also really like how practical and versatile they are. I had a feeling I would get great value for money because I knew there are so many ways I can style a shoe like this. I also think the black patent look is very timeless and the logo on the heel is such a nice detail. These shoes are definitely something I know I will have forever.
How would you describe the fit? Does the Loulou run true to size?
I got my usual size in these and they fit like a glove. So I would say the Saint Laurent Loulou sandals run true to size. The square toe at the front also makes them feel very comfortable and allows more room than other sandals I've worn.
Are they comfortable to walk in?
Yes, they are very comfortable to walk in. That's what initially made me want to buy them. When I tried them on in the store I immediately thought that they would be a great shoe for both events and weddings because of how comfortable they are. The thicker heel definitely makes the shoes easier to walk in along with the slightly thicker platform. Both straps feel very comfortable against my foot too.
How do you style your Saint Laurent shoes?
I have styled these shoes lots of different ways. As I mentioned they are really great for events. I've often worn these shoes under wide-legged trousers paired with a dressy top. I love them for a look like this because they are the perfect height and the open toe looks good under trousers. I've also styled them with dresses and skirts. It is such a versatile shoe so works with a lot of different looks.
Nadia Anya (@nadiaanya_)
Based in London
What do you love most about Saint Laurent shoes?
The fact that they have so many different but wearable styles. From their trainers to sandals to heels, each style is timeless but also super versatile. I do think my favourites are Saint Laurent trainers though.
What made you choose the Saint Laurent Court Classic trainers over the brand’s other styles?
I had my eye on them for a few months but held off getting them for a while as I tend to reach for a chunkier trainer. As spring/summer came around I was finding myself wanting a classic and neat trainer to pair with midi dresses and skirts. I kept putting on outfits and thinking ‘ahhh they’d be perfect with this’ so decided it was time to purchase! I love the other styles Saint Laurent have too, but these were a perfect monochromatic, casual but still smart style so they fit best with my wardrobe.
How would you describe the fit? Does the Court Classic run true to size?
The Saint Laurent Court Classic trainers are true to size and they fit perfectly! Loose enough to wear with a trainer sock too.
Are they comfortable to walk in?
YES! I’m super fussy with my shoes being comfortable but these were perfect from the get go! No breaking in time at all which is always a bonus. I always wear them with invisible or trainer socks.
How do you style your Saint Laurent shoes?
My go to way has been to pair them with midi dresses — I love the super feminine silhouette paired with a ‘cooler’ trainer. The embroidery on the side gives them a subtle edgy feel which I think works so well with a feminine dress. I also like wearing them with jumpsuits, they’re such a go-to for me at the moment and the Court Classic works with every single one I own! Then finally, I’m loving them with denim shorts and a blazer — again a super easy look to create and the trainers look so cute styled in a preppy way!
Jenee Naylor (@highlowluxxe)
Based in Virginia
What do you love most about Saint Laurent shoes?
I love that Saint Laurent shoes are timeless and classic but they always have the perfect amount of edge to make any look feel a little cooler. The brand does a great job of being on trend whilst still providing you with a piece that will last several seasons and can be mixed and matched with so much in your wardrobe.
What made you choose the Saint Laurent Tribute flat sandals over the brand’s other styles?
Definitely the iconic style and the quality. The leather is always top notch which is exactly what I want for a summer sandal that I will be wearing daily. I also liked the variety in colour options, they offered metallics that were still elevated but not too in your face. I also love the placement of the signature Tribute emblem, it really elongates the leg and for someone that is 5’4 that’s a plus!
How would you describe the fit? Does the Tribute run true to size?
I would describe the Saint Laurent Tribute sandals fit as narrow and I would recommend sizing up at least half a size, depending on the width of your foot. Mine are true to size but I have pretty narrow feet and my next pair will probably be a half size bigger!
Are they comfortable to walk in?
They are very comfortable to walk in, the leather is buttery soft and wears in well.
How do you style your Saint Laurent shoes?
I usually style my sandals with pretty dresses but they also work well with straight-leg denim and a nice top. Because mine are metallic I usually add them to a look that I want to dress up a bit, it’s a great alternative to wearing heels or a strappy sandal.
Sira Pevida (@sirapevida)
What do you love most about Saint Laurent shoes?
I love them because they are always super chic and elegant at the same time. They are the perfect blend of sexy and classy and are super comfortable. If I need shoes for a specific event or outfit, the Betty is my first choice.
What made you choose the Saint Laurent Betty Pumps over the brand’s other styles?
I sometimes have trouble choosing between all the different styles, but I decided to buy the Betty because of their versatility and I fell in love with the idea of having such high heels that can be comfortable to wear.
How would you describe the fit? Does the Betty run true to size?
The Saint Laurent Betty Pumps fit perfectly. Every time I buy Saint Laurent shoes online I’m one hundred percent sure I’ll receive the right size. Sometimes you can be unsure about buying shoes online due to bad experiences with incorrect sizing, but this never happens with Saint Laurent shoes.
Are they comfortable to walk in?
Totally, they’re the most comfortable. It’s become a classic because you can wear them for literally any occasion. For example, you can wear them for a wedding where you know you’ll be standing and dancing a lot and be sure you’ll be comfortable the whole time.
How do you style your Saint Laurent shoes?
One of the things I like most about Saint Laurent shoes is that I can style them for every occasion. From a super relaxed look with jeans to a very glam outfit, they’re completely adaptable. They can easily be the centrepiece of any look.
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