4 Flat-Shoe Trends That Are Gaining Steam Now
When kitten heels made their resurgence earlier this year, I made no complaint. I’m not quite sure myself what it was about them that inspired such deep-seated, instinctual revulsion among so many for so long—or what brought about their definite return. In any case, after seasons and seasons of sky-high stilettos (never my thing), sneakers so chunky and vertiginous that they barely qualify as sneakers, and flatform sandals I can’t look at without imagining twisting an ankle (I’ve had a few close calls), the style felt like a breath of fresh air.
Hot on the tiny heels of this (literally) down-to-earth trend comes the re-emergence of flats. And not just boring old basic flats—I’m talking seriously fun, seriously stylish iterations even a dyed-in-the-wool maximalist like myself can appreciate. I might be the only person who walks in L.A., but I know my NYC friends will appreciate the four fashionable yet functional flat-shoe trends I’ve rounded up below. Think “ugly” sandals that aren’t ugly at all as well as directional ballet flats that won’t remind you of sophomore year.
"UGLY" SANDALS
I’ve sworn by Dr. Martens for years, thanks to how long each pair lasts (hello, cost per wear), and I’m pretty sure I’m ready to pull the trigger on this super on-trend vegan-leather snakeskin-print pair.
This is the investment piece I’ve been eyeing for a while now.
NOT-SO-BASIC BALLET FLATS
BUCKLED MULES AND LOAFERS
One of the coolest It-bag brands now makes shoes too. Rejoice.
VANS
Still looking for new-season shoe trends? See six more big ones we’ve been eyeing.
-
The Chicest Fashion People I Know Wear These Anti-Trend Shoes Year-Round
Classic, elevated, and perennially chic.
-
If You Want to Freshen Up Your Shoe Collection, Start With These 33 Sneakers, Kitten Heels, and Flats
Sending my apologies to your wallet.
-
Everyone Wants These The Row It Shoes—I'm Saving $1.3K by Ordering the Ugg Version of Them
Both will sell out. (Consider yourself warned.)
-
Rihanna Just Wore 2025's "Weird" It Flats With Pajama Pants on the Streets of L.A.
I've lost count of how many celebrities own these.
-
Jeans, Flats, Jackets, and Sweaters—The Best of the Best In Each Category For Fall
Meet your new hero pieces.
-
Hold the Black Flats—Wearing This Shoe Color With Dresses Will Get You More Compliments
If you don't own this trend, you should.
-
These Are the It Sneakers Celebrities Love to Wear With Baggy Pants and Jeans
Every It girl's go-to.
-
Bella Hadid Just Wore the $160 Designer-Passing White Sneakers That Will Sell Out by September 1
Hurry, there are only a few sizes left.