When thinking of ways to elevate an outfit and feel more sophisticated and feminine, the first thing that springs to mind is to put on a pair of high heels. While they certainly can enhance our feminine energy, they’re not exactly something you’d call practical, especially when it comes to everyday wear.
Enter flats, a dressy and comfortable alternative to high heels. This versatile footwear option offers your feet the comfort and support they need without taking away from your style.
But probably the biggest advantage that flats have over any other type of shoes (and especially heels) is that they work for practically every occasion, whether we’re talking about a corporate setting, a fancy weekend getaway, a formal dinner, or a family picnic in nature. Because narrowing down your options can be tough because of the variety of different styles, we’ve rounded up six types of flats everyone needs in their closet. Let’s take a look.
Pointy flats
Timeless and sophisticated, pointed-toe flats can add the right dose of elegance to just about any outfit you can think of. Their foot-hugging silhouette makes them comfortable enough to be a part of your everyday outfits, while their classic appeal makes them a stylish alternative to high heels.
Pointy flats look equally good when paired with jeans as they do with tailored pants, and they come in a variety of styles and patterns so you can easily find a pair that works well with the rest of your wardrobe. Lace-ups, strappy, leopard, or suede? That’s up to you to decide!
Ballet flats
Classic and feminine, ballet flats are probably the type of flat most of us think of at the mention of flats. Modeled after the shoes traditionally worn by ballerinas, ballet flats can easily partner with everything from dresses and rompers to jeans and trousers, making any outfit look more polished and put-together.
Because of their rounded toe, ballet flats have a softer appeal than their pointed counterparts, especially models with a dainty bow at the front. Drawn to this specific model but want an edgier feel? Go for a pair in a daring leopard or snake print, go big with oversized bows and pom-poms. Want to keep it office-friendly? Get a pair in neutrals such as beige, camel, or black for a perfectly fashionable work-to-weekend outfit.
Mules
This type of flats is the one we’ve seen around in the 90s, and the good news is, they’re making a comeback. Nostalgic fashionistas all around the world are wearing these on-trend flats and experimenting with a multitude of different styles, providing enough inspo for those perfectly polished #ootds.
Their backless and slip-on style allows for both comfort and style, and you can use them to dress your outfits up and down depending on the dress code. Pair your favorite mules with denim for a dressier feel, wear them with skirts and dresses for a perfectly fashionable and feminine look, or get a fur-lined pair to keep your feet nice and cozy.
Loafers
Sleek and chic, loafers are the go-to pair of flats for many, and for good reason. They can easily be made a part of professional outfit when paired with a tailored dress or a pencil skirt, but they also work amazingly well with tailored pants and high-waisted Bermuda shorts.
Whether you opt for a pair in patent leather or suede or go for neutral or vibrant color, loafers can easily become your trusty go-tos regardless of the occasion. Wear them to a date night, stay comfortable while running errands, work them into your office outfits, or bring them with you when vacationing. One thing’s for certain – they’re one of the most comfortable pairs of shoes you’ll ever own.
Espadrilles
Whether you’re drawn to the Bohemian chic style or simply looking for a perfect summer shoe, espadrilles are just what you need in your closet. Espadrilles are usually associated with summer wardrobe since they’re made with jute rope and canvas which makes them the perfect breathable pair of shoes for hot climates.
Platforms and wedge espadrilles are ideal for adding some height and style to your summer outfits, embellished ones work great as day-to-night shoes, while sport espadrilles will lend a casual feel to your weekend outfit combos.
Slingbacks
This is a type of flat shoe that can easily take you from a corporate setting to a brunch to an afternoon of shopping. Slingbacks have a design that’s classy and smart which makes them perfectly appropriate for the office, but they’re also casual enough to be rocked on weekends and social gatherings.
Pair yours with jeans or a black leather mini to keep your everyday outfits chic, or wear them with a black pencil midi skirt for a business-formal look. With or without tights? You choose.
Wrapping up
Classy and ladylike, flats are a great alternative to heels. Just like their heeled counterparts, they’re something you can truly never have enough of. Expand your horizons with the styles listed above, and you’ll never have to choose between comfort and fashion.
