Until about a month ago, catching me in anything without a heel (apart from the occasional sneaker) shared a probability rate with me breaking my Zara habit—that is about 0%. Whenever anyone would suggest I prioritize comfort over an extra inch or two of height, I'd scoff in response, never even considering a trade-in for something flatter and closer to the ground. But it appears that I'm not as stubborn as my loved ones would like you to believe because, in the last few weeks, something clicked in my brain. All of a sudden, I can't stop shopping online and subsequently reaching for flats.
If I'm being completely honest, I know the exact reason for this unforeseen change of heart. Simply put, the heel-less styles on the market right now are chicer and more enticing than any I've seen. From Alaïa's netted and studded Mary Janes to Margiela's Tabi ballets to The Row's and Dear Frances's mesh slip-ons, every pair of flats making headlines right now is a 10/10, and what kind of fashion lover would I be if I denied myself the pleasure of great shoes just because I've always said I hated flats?
Below, see the stylish flats that managed to change my mind about exclusively wearing heels forever.
Mary-Jane Flats
I know Mary Janes aren't new. But the styles that have recently been released—from the likes of The Row and Massimo Dutti—are far more tempting than those of the past.
Shop the style:
Every WWW editor either owns these or wants to.
Simple doesn't have to mean boring.
If you've been sleeping on Massimo Dutti, wake up.
Madewell's shoes are easily as comfortable as their jeans—and that's saying a lot.
Mesh Flats
If I had to pinpoint one shoe style that's gotten the most buzz in 2023, it'd easily have to be mesh flats, which, thanks to The Row and Dear Frances, are quite nearly inescapable right now. Cool, casual, and perfect for walking around the Mediterranean coast on your next vacation, these see-through shoes are responsible for 99% of my flats comeback tour.
Shop the style:
I've now gone to every store in NYC to try these on. I'm obsessed.
Everyone in my office is talking about this gorgeous Etsy find.
Whenever I'm on the lookout for a new, comfortable shoe that's still chic, I look at Dear Frances's selection first.
The rhinestones and strap allow you to check off three trends in one shoe. Huzzah.
Satin Flats
What's prettier than a bow-clad pair of satin ballet flats? That's right—nothing. Whether they're paired with slouchy jeans or a ultra-feminine skirt, this particular style will turn heads and bring forth compliments like you wouldn't believe.
Shop the style:
Yes, these really are only $20.
For any brides who hate heels.
I, for one, cannot wait to score a pair of these and wear them 24/7 for the remainder of summer.
The mismatching strap makes the white satin on these flats pop.
Fishnet Flats
Toes are out for summer, but no, you don't have to suffer in a pair of flip-flops. Rather, fishnet flats are the chic, fashion girl approved way to show off your pedicure this season. Made famous by Alaïa's nearly impossible-to-find Mary Janes, this isn't a shoe trend I expected to make it big, but boy, am I glad it did.
Shop the style:
Sizes are dwindling. Act fast or forever hold your peace.
Oh, was I drooling? Apologies.
Another day, another epic Amazon find.
If you can resist buying these, I commend you. I'm not quite as strong.
Studded Flats
Hey, stud. And no, I'm not looking at you. I'm looking at your gorgeous, studded ballet flats. Thus far in 2023, rhinestones, strasses, etc. have taken over the world of flat footwear, with viral pairs by Tory Burch and Alaïa having already sold out. Luckily, there are still plenty of alternatives to go around, from Reformation, Khaite, Magda Butrym, Zara, and more.
Shop the style:
Stunning.
Instant outfit-makers.
I've wanted these for months, but today feels like the day. *Clicks checkout button*
Okay, Khaite. Go off.
Slingback Flats
If you, too, are smitten with slingback heels right now, you'll adore the flat, far-more-comfortable options on the market. For proof, just eye the below Blade pair from Saint Laurent (and a few other more affordable alts while you're at it).
Shop the style:
Fact: When both Hailey Bieber and Elsa Hosk own a pair of shoes, they're going to go viral.
The black already sold out. Don't miss out on this white alt.
This price is unreal.
Take advantage of the Ssense sale while it's still going on.
Next: I've Never Been a J.Crew or Madewell Girl—These 33 Summer Finds Changed My Mind
-
Trendy Flats This, Trendy Flats That—These New Ballet Loafers Will Sell Out FirstGigi Hadid approves.
-
2025's Favorite Flats? Say Boat Shoes, Loafers, or Slippers and You'll Be WrongKeep guessing.
-
Jennifer Lawrence Just Deemed This Flat-Shoe Trend Elegant Enough to Wear to a Fancy NYC Fashion PartyTrust her—she knows what she's doing.
-
So You Have an Eye on Everything Designer But Not the Budget—31 Luxe-Looking Finds That Scratch the ItchEverything is under $150.
-
Can't Choose Between Sneakers and Ballet Flats? Now, You Don't Have ToThanks to brands like Puma and Nike.
-
This Stylish New Yorker Has Has Impeccable Taste—35 Chic Spring Picks That Have Her AttentionThe dresses alone are gems.
-
The Anti Ballet Flats French and Italian Brands Are Currently Smitten WithChic flats, sans ballet.
-
Flat-Shoe Summer Awaits—Here's What Everyone's Wearing Instead of HeelsShop the styles inside.
