Heels are great—no one is denying that. Stilettos, court shoes, platforms and kitten heels all exist for a reason, but for the day-to-day, flats are imperative. So, it’s pretty lucky that flat shoes are now considered cool.
Of course, we don’t just pay attention to fashion that’s received the ‘cool’ stamp of approval, but when a particular style is in the spotlight, designers are far more likely to grasp onto and release their own version, making it easier to access a wide range of designs. In the case of flats, which have garnered quite the fanbase since the revival of ballet pumps in mid-2022, their new-found popularity has resulted in a surge of slingbacks, loafers, ballet flats and Mary Janes being released by the week.
With all these shoes at your disposal, I bet you’re wondering how to wear them. Naturally, we went straight to the item we rely on most; the one thing that goes with absolutely every footwear option. Jeans. Together, denim and flat shoes create the bones of an effortless outfit that can be carried through the seasons. Just add a jumper and coat in the winter, then peel off the layers and rock a cotton shirt in the summer. Simple!
Scroll on to see some of the jeans-and-flats looks we’ve bookmarked recently with the summer season in mind.
Style Notes: Oversized shirt and linen are everywhere at the moment, particularly styled casually with jeans and fuss-free footwear.
I could see the Olsen twins rocking this look.
These flattering jeans come in 15 different washes.
Zara has really stepped up its shoe game in recent seasons (pun intended).
Style Notes: Cute flats will bring a touch of elegance to the Canadian tuxedo look. We just love a sartorial contrast.
I’ve been eyeing up this jacket for ages, but now I might have to add it to my collection.
Loose-fitting jeans like these are very 2023.
If you’re going to buy just one pair of ballet flat, make it these ones.
Style Notes: Two-tone pumps always feel very Chanel-esque, so it only makes sense to pair them with a classic combination: blue jeans and a blazer. The perfect summer’s evening look.
The ideal evening layer.
You can’t go wrong with classic blue straight-legs.
Très Parisienne.
Style Notes: Okay, it is slightly cheating, but it’s summer–jorts should still count! This outfit covers so many trends. Striped shirt? Check. Fisherman sandals? Check. Jean Shorts? Triple check.
I adore how light this shirt is.
This particular style is hugely popular and selling fast.
You’ll get so much wear out of these in summer.
Style Notes: On days when you crave simplicity, opt for a minimal ‘fit: a simple black tee and flip flops are the ultimate weekend uniform.
Don’t overlook M&S’ basics.
A wear-every-day kind of jean.
Swap out your black loafers for an easy pair of flip flops.
Style Notes: This is exactly the kind of look I’ll be relying on as we head into spring/summer. Easy, breezy, and incredibly chic. All hail the clog.
