Three years ago, most of my outfits centred around heels. My daily wares were always on the casual side, so I had to rely on heels—be they kitten, slingback or platform styles—to give my looks, for lack of a better term, a lift. What can I say? Flat shoes just weren’t my thing. Now, my tastes have changed across the length and breadth of my wardrobe. My clothes are considerably more timeless than they once were—think quiet luxury with H&M, Arket and COS in place of Prada, Khaite and The Row. While I still appreciate heels, my footwear sensibilities have shifted too. As it seems the rest of the population is, I’m now completely obsessed with flat shoes.
Having phased out of sandals, I’m currently living in flat shoes. Demand for them is at an all-time high, which means the market is suitably saturated with them. If you find yourself in need of some new flat shoes, it’s wise to narrow the offerings down to the trending styles before you make your decision. As a treat, I decided to do the hard work for you by tracking down the flat-shoe trends currently catching the eyes of fashion people.
From the timely update to classic loafers to the pretty slip-on you can wear with jeans and dresses alike, scroll on to discover the five flat-shoe trends to know this season.
Style Notes: Ballet flats never go out of style, but there’s no denying that they’ve never been as prevalent as they are now. Worn with everything from jeans to on-trend full midi skirts, there’s no easier way to add instant polish to your outfits.
These also come in half sizes, FYI!
The cult Dear Frances mesh flats are still going strong.
Because you can’t beat a classic.
Style Notes: Fisherman sandals have been the It shoe style of the past two years, and they’re going nowhere for the remainder of 2023. Past iterations usually featured a thick sole, but the latest offerings of fishermans are significantly daintier in comparison. Just add socks for autumn/winter.
An investment buy no one will regret.
The fluffy lining is the perfect autumn addition.
I’m imagining these with white socks and a knit dress.
Style Notes: Mary Janes have been popular in fashion circles for seasons, though they’ve shape-shifted somewhat. Previously clunky with a high heel, the shoes have evolved, and now, flat soles in coloured leather or soft velvet are all the rage.
Love these in navy, black or red.
Chrome accessories are key this season.
As are studs and rhinestones.
Style Notes: If there’s one thing we’ve found in recent years, it’s that clogs are here for all of your transseasonal flat-shoe needs. Birkenstocks remain incredibly sought after, but there are plenty of other iterations to choose from.
These sell out so fast.
For the minimalists.
These look so good with baggy jeans.
Style Notes: Loafers are a mainstay in the shoe collections of fashion people, and they’re not going anywhere this season. To soften the look, opt for suede finish loafers.
So chic.
This rich green shade gets a yes from me.
For those who prefer a slight heel.
Next Up: I Used to Avoid Wearing White Trousers—These 8 Outfits Have Changed My Mind
