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, espadrilles, 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.
This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Next up, I know good bags, and these 11 independent brands are my favourites.
