At 5'3", I'm not one to usually opt for flats. My choices have always been clear—sneakers or chunky heels. Flats seemed like the boring choice, but as I've started to invest in more staples for my wardrobe, I realized I needed to find more comfortable footwear and can't hold a vendetta against flats for life. I started off easy with a pair of ballet flats from Mansur Gavriel that I cannot stop wearing, so I knew there had to be more for me out there. After taking a lengthy scroll through all my favorite retailers, I quickly realized that there are many flats options on the current market that actually suit my taste. It may mean that I have to put in a little more effort to navigate among the hundreds of pages of options, but the finds are always worth the search.
If you're on the shorter side like me and have difficulty with finding flats that suit you, I've shared my favorite picks below. Keep scrolling for the list of 32 pairs of flats, from delicate ballet flats to chic mules, that made me forget why I steered clear of the style before. With these options, you'll want to add a pair to your cart immediately.
Zara
Woven Split Leather Mules
If I saw these in public, I'd be convinced they were designer.
Mango
Bow Leather Ballerina
If you don't want the white, this pair also happens to come in five other colors, including a bright orange and neon green.
This pair gets an easy yes from me.
Mango
Buckle Leather Moccasins
From the square toe to the tan-colored suede, everything about these deserves your attention.
ASOS Design
Lala Pointed Slingback Flats
Mansur Gavriel
Square Toe Babouche Flats
Mansur Gavriel's ballet flats taught me that there are flats for me out in the world, so for that reason, I need another pair from the brand, right?
When it comes to the loafer style, I always thought a chunky platform or heel was needed. This pair proved me wrong.
Mango
Multiple Strap Sandals
Warmer weather is coming.
Maria Luca
Ballerina Augusta Flats
A built-in anklet for all your jewelry needs.
Sam Edelman
Michaela Mary Jane Flat
I'm very into this shade of green for spring.
Zara
Buckle Canvas Espadrilles
I've always wanted the Chanel espadrilles, but I think I'm going to start off with this pair first. Baby steps!
Open Edit
Kendall Ornament Pointed Toe Slingback Flat
Finding flat party shoes is always difficult.Replica Store to the rescue!
Zara
Leather Ballet Flats
The square toe really adds that fashion-forward touch.
Perfect for heading back to the office.
The Row
Ava Mary Jane Flat
I dream of The Row constantly.
Reike Nen
Shirring Mary Jane
ASOS Design
Levels Fisherman Ballet Mules
I'd pair these with relaxed jeans and a plain T-shirt.
Platform slides have always looked unflattering on me, so I'm giving this option a go.
Other Stories
Gathered Leather Ballerina Flats
What a lovely shade of baby blue.
Sleeper
Brown Shearling Slippers
Mansur Gavriel
Square Toe Ballerina Flat
The texture on these is divine.
Zara
Buckled Flat Leather Sandals
The gold buckle just adds such an elevated detail to an otherwise simple pair of sandals.
Jeffrey Campbell
Square-Toe Mary Jane Flats
Jw Anderson
Chain Loafers
How to make statement shoes 101.
Loeffler Randall
Leonie Ballet Flats
Looking for unconventional bridal shoes? You've found your match.
Simone Rocha
Pleated Ballerina Flats
Or opt for this pearl pair. Both options will be perfect for the big day.
Khaite
Ashland Ballet Flat
Birkenstock
Boston Soft Footbed Clog
When it comes to comfort, you can't steer away from Birkenstock.
The kind of shoes you reach for almost every day.
Other Stories
Almond Toe Suede Ballerina Flats
While I don't usually like basic flats like this, the suede and neutral colorway of these make them shoes that I could definitely use in my closet.
Jeffrey Campbell
Printed Bow Flats
Imagine these with an airy white dress.
Next, Zara's Summer Collection Is Here—I Lost It Over These 36 Finds