Up until about six years ago, aside from holiday sandals, I never used to wear flat shoes. Instead, I’d teeter around in heels, whatever the occasion—be it a night out or a trip to the supermarket. I guess I had subscribed to the idea that working in the fashion industry meant practical things such as flat shoes weren’t part of the uniform. In my defence, flat shoes weren’t given the same treatment that they are today.
Then the tide turned. From Céline’s (when the brand still boasted its accent) Glove shoes to Gucci’s once-again-iconic Jordaan loafers, the humble flat was given the haute treatment by a host of brands. Now, you’ll find plentiful flat shoes that look just as pretty as heels, if not more so.
It’s official—flat shoes are cool, and I wear them around the clock. Not only are they more comfortable than any of the shoes I wore during my early 20s, but I also trip less. (Note: It’s imperative to pay attention when walking in five-inch stilettos and not get distracted looking at dogs.) And you know, I also feel much more stylish.
Ballet flats, loafers, Mary Janes, sandals, slingbacks—whatever your preferred flavour of flat footwear is, I’ve found the chicest pairs out there. Scroll below to see the best flat shoes on offer right now, from high-street, mid-range and luxury brands.
Marilyn wears a pair of Mary Jane flats from Massimo Dutti.
These flats will never go out of style.
Fashion people have a serious soft spot for clogs.
These remind me of The Row’s ballet flats, but for a fraction of the price.
These look so premium.
The perfect spring blue.
For a high-street shoe, these look really premium.
Perfect twinkle toes.
This unique crochet design also comes in a fun rainbow colourway.
These also come in a sleek tan hue.
The flat occasion wear shoes you’ve been searching for.
I am simply obsessed with these leopard print beauties.
Parisian influencer Lena tastefully clashes her cheetah-print Repetto pumps with a striped jumper.
Such a fun addition to an otherwise simple outfit.
Silver hardware is really on-trend for 2023.
The suede adds to the luxe feel of this pair.
Now to decide which Reformation dress to style with these ballerina pumps…
These look slipper-level comfortable.
A chicer alternative to flip-flops to bring on your next sunny getaway.
You could easily carry these nifty flats in your bag for footwear-related emergencies.
Carel is the brand to go to for high-quality Mary Janes.
This masculine silhouette will make every outfit infinitely cooler.
As classy as it gets.
Lizzy opts for a classic look, styling her Church’s loafers with jeans and a black tee.
You’ll get so much wear out of these timeless loafers.
Le Monde Beryl know all about great flats.
Valentino makes the best going-out shoes for when you’re just not in the mood to wear heels.
As seen on Kendall Jenner.
I was sold the second I saw that pearl-embellished strap.
It’s worth investing in a hard-wearing pair of ballet flats—IMO, Chloé makes some of the best.
I’m speechless at how beautiful these are.
Gucci slip-ons are iconic for a reason.
Proof that the simplest details can make the world of difference.
White footwear works great with all-neutral looks.
This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
