I've Tried on So Many High-Street Flats—This Pair Is Still the Best of the Best

In my opinion, one of the greatest moves within fashion recently was the quietening of it all. A turn back to classics as the stand-out elements of an outfit, and within it the refound love of flat shoes. Where once sky-high heels that left us teetering around were the pinnacle of elegance, the move back to simplicity has allowed the humble flat shoe to gain a greater status. Over the past few seasons, ballet flats in particular have come to the forefront of fashion, alongside Mary Jane silhouettes distinguished by their mid-foot strap. As the adoration for these styles continues, brands have acted to release designs to satiate our comfortable flat shoe appetites, and COS's buckled ballet flats are one of my favourites around right now.

If there were one brand that would be able to pull together the refined silhouette of a ballet flat and the ease of a Mary Jane, it would be COS. Recently, I headed out to try on some of COS's best-selling jeans, and in doing so had the chance to put the buckled ballet flats to the test. Crafted in supple leather, the flats feature a contemporary almond toe and cushioned insoles for added comfort. What I love about the design is that the buckle strap adds a security that's missing from regular ballet flats which can lead them to slip off easily. In terms of sizing, I took my regular size 5 (38) which was a perfect fit, and the softness of the leather made them extra comfortable. Plus, the pared-back style makes them easy to style with almost any style, from classic denim to tailoring to soft floral dresses. Whilst first released in a versatile black shade and fresh cream, COS has revitalised the style for winter in a sleek burgundy shade, a bold leopard print and a playful snake print too.

Keep scrolling to see the COS buckled ballet flats, and shop more buckled flat shoes we're loving right now.

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