So about this time last year, I did a big footwear cull. I narrowed all my shoes and boots down to just five pairs, high-fived myself for the ruthlessness, and felt high and mighty about it all season long. And look, those styles will live on as my go-to footwear capsule when I'm traveling during the colder months—but the new year honestly has me itching to add a little something to the mix, and that's okay!
Fun fact about me: I love flat shoes. I love how they make my trousers sit just so. I obviously love that they're practical when I'm schlepping about the city. I love how they make for a chill foundation to wear something a little fancy without it feeling too much. The good news is that there are already so many great options to shop—whether you're investing in a classic style or opting for something a bit more trendy, these 25 chic pairs of flats are worth considering for 2025.
Zara
Tied Fabric Ballet Flats
The double buckle is doing it for me.
Paris Texas
Bettina Flat Slingbacks 10mm
I rarely say no to a slingback.
Mango
Suede Leather Moccasin
All suede accessories everywhere are on my mind.
Madewell
Francine Ballet Flat
Are we in for another season of Madewell's accessories really just not messing around?
Sam Edelman
Elaina T-Strap Flat
If you prefer something a little less chunky.
Maison Margiela
Tabi Ballerina Flats
Is this the year I finally go Tabi?
Mango
Leather Ballet Flats With Bow
She's classic.
Khaite
Alessio Textured-Leather Loafers
Khaite's minimalist loafers are the loafers to end all loafers.
Vince
Sloan Loafer
Same vibe, but these look soft.
Mango
Leather Moccasin
Why does she look so sad when her shoes are so good?
Mango
Patent Leather-Effect Ballet Flats
Also far too melancholy for her footwear.
Adidas Originals
Samba MN Suede-Trimmed Leather Sneakers
On the hunt for a punchier sneaker than last fall's classic Sambas.
Mango
Mesh High-Top Shoes
Maybe?
Jil Sander
Slippers
Too much like wearing Elmo, or in a good way?
Mango
Round-Toe Ballerina Shoes With Buckle
I suspect metallic footwear is going to have a little resurgence.
Chloé
Marcie Mary Jane Flat
This deep burgundy is so delightful.
Sam Edelman
Cass Pointed Toe Flat
This color is good.
Rag
Bone
Carter Penny Loafer
Rag
Bone's footwear has a rep for being super comfortable.
Zara
Leather Espadrilles
Espadrilles? For winter? Zara says so.
Mansur Gavriel
Glove Flat
That red Mansur interior still gets me.
Mango
Leather Moccasin
She has a place in the Hamptons.
Zara
Suede Slingback Shoes
So does she.
Sam Edelman
Kasey Flat
The heel detail saves these from being just another pair of black flats.
Natalie Cantell is an NYC-based style director, creative consultant, and fashion editor, who regularly contributes from Paris. She was the executive director of Who What Wear and Marie Claire’s brand studio until 2023, and now freelances globally on shoots, stories, and special projects.