Black court shoes were a surprise star of the autumn-winter 2023 runways, seen at Prada, Christopher Kane, and Tory Burch (to name just three). Countless celebrities have bought into the trend in the months since, ditching their crystal-embellished sandals and disco platforms for an altogether plainer alternative. The most recent convert is Sydney Sweeney, who wore simple pumps to the opening of RH England, The Gallery in Oxfordshire over the weekend.
At the event the Euphoria actor wore a body-con flared-sleeve top and miniskirt from London-based designer Nensi Dojaka, with sheer black tights and simple black heels. Her outfit also chimed with the ’80s trend, as previously seen on everyone from Katie Holmes to Hailey Bieber.
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While court shoes have long been associated with an office wardrobe (and the Princess of Wales), last season’s collections offered fresh ways to style them. From minimalist pairings (à la Sydney Sweeney) to the shirtdresses styled with black heels at Prada, the simple court shoe is cool again in 2023.
“So many evening shoes these days are in-your-face—covered in crystals and feathers and straps,” British Vogue contributing editor Ellie Pithers previously said of the look. “Of course those are fun to wear. But they can also make you feel a bit like a clown if you’re not in the mood. With courts there’s something elegant about a clean, streamlined silhouette.”
This article first appeared on British Vogue.