(Image credit: @THEAUDREYPETERS. Pictured: Saint Laurent Feather Pom Pom Sling Back Sandal ($1,190).)
Another year has come and gone, meaning it's time to reflect back on some of the best footwear trends of the year. One of my personal favorites? Loud, proud, embellished statement heels. Although I'm not a fully converted platform princess (I'm partial to my white Adidas Stan Smith sneakers which have seen better days), the holidays are the one time of year I relish in putting on a pair of bedazzled sky-high stilettos to ring in the festivities with family and friends. Giant, fuzzy pom-poms, anyone?
If you need a reason to get dressed a little more *extra* this holiday season, look no further than the complete guide to the best statement heels that are sure to be showstoppers at every holiday party you step foot in. Happy shopping!
Nalebe
Stellar Pumps
Obsessed with the mesh detailing on these shoes.
Larroude
Miso Heels
Party like it's 1973—not 2023.
Larroude
Valerie Platform Sandals
The gold detailing on these shoes makes them look like cherished antiques.
A statement heel roundup wouldn't be complete without these gems.
Jonathan Simkhai
Lena Multi Strap Crystal Mules
I love a pink gradient.
Gucci
Priscilla Glossed-Leather Pumps
The thick ankle straps on these Gucci heels are so retro.
Mango
Metallic Heel Shoes
Mirror, mirror on the wall, who has the prettiest shoes of them all?
Jeffrey Campbell
Freesia Platform Sandal
Nothing says statement heels like a big, pink rose.
Mango
Pointed Toe Rhinestone Shoes
Rhinestones, but elevated.
Zara
Rhinestone Slingback Heels
Green is incredibly trendy right now.
ASOS Design
Wide Fit Hedley Embellished Heeled Mules in Gold
Wear these with some sheer tights and you're golden.
Mango
Satin Platform Shoes
Perfect for dancing the night away.
Loewe
Leather Slingback Pumps
These Loewe rose heels are on my 2023 vision board.
Sam Edelman
Leon Sandal
Feathers have more fun.
Mach
Mach
Crystal-Embellished Pvc Mules
Mach
Mach doesn't just make embellished bow heels. These star-studded mules are my latest obsession.
Versace
Medusa Aevitas Embellished Satin Platform Pumps
The It shoes of 2022 would like a word.
Cult Gaia
Lislie Sandal
Obsessed with the embellished spiral going up the calf.
Aquazzura
Zsa Zsa 105 Metallic Leather and Embellished Pvc Sandals
This pair is chronically Y2K in the best way.
Reformation
Mimi Buckle Pump
Mary Janes are the quintessential holiday shoes.
Steve Madden
Saphina Rhinestones
The holidays are all about a little sparkle.
Maison Margiela
Pink Tabi Heels
Indie girls looking for their next statement shoes, look no further.
Bottega Veneta
Green Stretch Heels
These Bottega heels are a classic.
The Attico
Devon Iridescent Leather Mules
Can I have the Devon mules in every color?
Blumarine
Purple Decor Flower Heels
Blumarine's pretty Y2K-inspired detailing is apparent in these blooming heels.
Gucci
Women's GG Slingback Pump
I hope these are waiting for me under my family's tree this year.
ASOS Design
Simba Embellished Slingback Stiletto Heeled Shoes in Orange
This bright orange is the perfect striking hue with a black minidress.
Shushu/Tong
Off-White
Burgundy Platform Heels
Shushu/Tong is one of fashion's rising designers, and these holiday-esque plaid platforms are the definition of the It crowd's obsession with the brand.
Reformation
Marisol Platform Heel
Shiny things all 2023.
H&M
Court Shoes
The steel toe detail is understated but a stunner.
Simmi Shoes London
Peruvian Embellished Strappy Mules in Silver
(Faux) diamonds are a girls best friend.
Next: Fashion People Agree—These 5 Looks Are Winners for the Holiday Season
Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.