Every Elegant Outfit in 2025 Will Start With One of These 7 Flat Shoe Trends
Flat-shoe enthusiast here to tell you that an elegant ensemble doesn't require heels. As an accessories editor who only owns two pairs of heels (of the kitten variety), I can guarantee that there are plenty of sophisticated flat shoe options available on the market that are capable of finishing off every one of your chicest looks, from pointed-toe slingbacks to old-money moccasins. And then there are the boots—so many boots.
Obviously, the best part about flats is their practical appeal—after all, heels are famously painful and uncomfortable, whereas flats keep you close to the ground and save your arches from being put in unnatural positions against their will. When done right, though, they can also be incredibly versatile and easy to style. From styling ideas to shopping picks, the ultimate guide to flat footwear awaits you below. Stop living with heel-induced pain. What's the point when these seven elegant flat shoe trends exist?
Riding Boots
Riding boots are the ultimate way to make an outfit look expensive. (They did get their name from equestrian culture, after all.) The quiet luxury footwear style immediately elevates mini and midi skirts, as well as, yes, skinny jeans.
SHOP RIDING BOOTS:
Mary Janes
The Mary Jane flats trend is set to continue being a stylish and sophisticated staple going into 2025. Whether embellished, printed, or netted, the variations of this trendy shoe offer an option for any ensemble.
SHOP MARY JANE FLATS:
Retro-Inspired Sneakers
Vintage-inspired trainers are one of the most comfortable flat shoes options, well, ever. The versatile footwear pairs well with practically any outfit, from your choice athleisure to everyday workwear.
SHOP RETRO SNEAKERS:
Slingback Flats
There are few shoes chicer than slingback flats. My favorite styling trick is pairing them with capri or stirrup pants. Opt for a traditional black pair from Larroudé or add some spunk with a leopard-print Ganni pair.
SHOP SLINGBACK FLATS:
Clogs
Clogs are a relaxed and comfortable way to complete any look. Plus, since Chemena Kamali made boho chic again at Chloé, they've never been trendier or more sought-after.
SHOP CLOGS:
Loafers
Of course, the standard penny loafer is a surefire way to upgrade an outfit. The right pair makes a very worthy investment, not to mention a chic, high-value statement, especially when you add a fun pair of socks.
SHOP LOAFERS:
Wrap Sandals
You can't go wrong with barely there wrap sandals. This is guaranteed to be your go-to shoe for all of spring and summer, not to mention it matches everything.
SHOP WRAP SANDALS:
Copelyn is a freelance fashion and accessory editor who formerly worked forBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing as an associate shopping editor. Before her time atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing , Copelyn was at Bustle Digital Group, working on the accessory market for cover shoots and fashion features across Nylon, The Zoe Report, Bustle, Romper, and Elite Daily. Copelyn also previously worked at InStyle and Cosmopolitan in the fashion departments. Copelyn has a journalism degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In her spare time, she freelances in graphic and web design in the fashion space and loves to upcycle clothing, home décor, and sneakers.
-
From Denim to White T-Shirts—These Are the Specific Brands I Source My Basics From
When you've tried them all, you know what's good.
-
35 Incredibly Chic Finds I Immediately Shared With My Fashion-Editor Friends When I Found Them
They're so good I want them all.
-
Stylish Women in Marseille and Cadaqués Swap Out Their Cashmere Sweaters for This Breezier Alt Every Summer
Vintage J.Crew coded.
-
Fashion People Are Buying These 4 Flat-Shoe Trends atReplica Store This Summer
Your guide to this season's must-have styles.
-
Fashion People in Their 20s and 50s Wear This Flat-Shoe Trend With Skirts to Look Chic
Hint: It's not loafers.
-
This Is *the* Ballet-Flats Color Fashion People Will Buy for the Remainder of 2025
As seen on Bella Hadid's Instagram.
-
If You Hate Flip-Flops, Try the Viral Sandal Trend Everyone With Good Taste Is Wearing This Summer
You can trust me.
-
Return Those New Flats—*These* Are the Cool Shoes Fashion People Are Wearing With Dresses and Skirts
Fresh and unexpected.