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.
One of the delightfully OTT designer options I’ve seen floating around Instagram.
This is the investment piece I’ve been eyeing for a while now.
“Ugly” sandals meet the logo-print trend. Stylish mayhem ensues.
NOT-SO-BASIC BALLET FLATS
Basic black, yes, but look at that deep-V vamp and that intricate stitching. (As if you’d expect anything less from Acne Studios.)
Metallic, glittery, Mary Jane style ballet flats are about as fun as they come.
Textured, ’70s-floral ballet flats with an attached metal anklet? It shouldn’t work, but it definitely does.
Cow print is easily my favorite of all the animal prints on offer this season.
Not sure I can adequately explain my love for these crocheted flats.
BUCKLED MULES AND LOAFERS
One of the coolest It-bag brands now makes shoes too. Rejoice.
VANS
Will it match with everything I own? Probably not. And that’s kind of the point.
Still looking for new-season shoe trends? See six more big ones we’ve been eyeing.
-
With Pieces This Chic, I Can See Why Red Still Reigns Supreme Among the Fashion Set
Plus, some stellar outfit ideas to get you inspired.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Ballet Flats Are Here to Stay—30 Chic Pairs I'm Eyeing for Fall
From Manolo Blahnik to H&M.
By Grace O'Connell Joshua
-
These Elegant Belts, Bags, and Flats Will Make Your Favorite Jeans Feel So Chic
Let's talk fall accessories.
By Natalie Cantell
-
I'm a Fashion Editor That Loves to Shop the Men's Section—35 Fall Pieces That Scream Cool Girl
These picks are super chic.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Anne Hathaway Wore the $50 FlatsReplica Store Shoppers Are Obsessed With
They come in six colors.
By Eliza Huber
-
The '90s Sneaker Trend Everyone Is Wearing in Paris Right Now
It's the opposite of Sambas.
By Allyson Payer
-
Zoë Kravitz Just Wore the Shoes That Will Make Your Basic Jeans Look Very 2024
A bit unexpected.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
5 Chic Skirt-and-Shoe Combos Fashion People Will Be Reaching for All Fall Long
100% adding these to my current outfit rotation.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes