Let’s face it: There’s a time and a place for heels, but not all of us possess the poise, grace and balance needed to pull them off on a daily basis. Yes, I’m talking about myself. Don’t get me wrong—I’m partial to low-heeled boots in autumn and platform sandals in summer. But when I have things to do and places to be, nine times out of 10, I’ll opt for flat soles.
Comfort is my main motivator, but this key factor aside, there's no denying that flat shoes offer a certain effortlessness that's difficult to replicate with heels.
Between Mary Janes, ballet pumps, Chelsea boots and the comfiest of all, trainers, we fashion enthusiasts have plenty of flat footwear options that are bang-on-trend and don’t require us to compromise our style. But for those still in doubt, we figured a little inspiration might come in handy. Keep scrolling for eight celebrity and street style outfits that prove a great autumn outfit doesn’t require a pair of heels.
1. Oversized Knit + White Denim + Flat Boots
Style Notes: Though Alexa Chung is clearly a fan of heeled Mary Janes and platform boots, she also wears plenty of enviable flat-shoe outfits like this one.
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This buttercream shade is a refreshing option for autumn.
I'd definitely need to be careful around mealtimes in these jeans, but I have a feeling it'd be worth it.
Rain boots in a British winter are non-negotiable. These feature a faux-fur lining for extra cosiness.
2. A Trench Coat + Striped Jumper + Trainers
Style Notes: This is such an of-the-moment outfit—striped knit, trench coat, retro sneakers—yet it still feels incredibly classic.
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Totême's cult striped sweater is back for the third year in a row.
The perfect between-season coat—size up if you're planning to layer bulky jumpers underneath.
Wear these sustainable trainers with everything from midi dresses to wide-leg jeans.
3. A Leather Blazer + Loose-Fit Jeans + Chunky Loafers
Style Notes: Nothing says model off-duty like relaxed silhouettes and comfortable footwear. Gigi Hadid's leather blazer is so on-trend, especially paired with those thick-soled loafers.
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Everyone can wear this vegan-leather jacket.
If you're bored of your basic straight-leg denim, give this chic, washed-black pair a go.
These days, no footwear repertoire is complete without a pair of snaffle-trimmed loafers.
4. A Bomber Jacket + Culottes + Trainers
Style Notes: Olivia Palermo always gets it right. This tonal look feels autumnal without being heavy. Plus, it includes a bomber jacket, which gives it instant trend points.
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This trendy bomber is also available in a regular fit.
These are a great example of year-round trousers. Just add tights when the weather cools.
The colourway on these affordable trainers is ideal for the season we're in.
5. Double Denim + Loafers
Style Notes: We've talked a lot about double denim recently, and while it might not be everyone's sartorial flavour, there's no denying this outfit is mega cool.
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Treat this jacket as a shacket in the colder months, and throw a wool coat on top.
Cool people match their denim.
Prada's loafers are the fashion set's footwear of choice and will last you a lifetime you care for them correctly.
6. An Oversized Shirt + Bike Shorts + Trainers
Style Notes: Jennifer Lopez has been serving a lot of on-point outfits this year—including plenty of elevated honeymoon ensembles—but we just love this laid-back pairing of an oversized white shirt and simple sneakers. The perfect weekend look.
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Nothing says put-together like a crisp cotton shirt.
Swap these out for full-length leggings if you're feeling chilly.
The sparkly heel tag on these trainers is subtle enough to still look chic.
7. A Longline Coat + Cargos + Converse
Style Notes: I've historically harboured a strong dislike for camouflage, but even I can get on board with this Emily Ratajkowski outfit. The black layers keep the camo looking understated and cool.
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You'll be thanking the fashion heavens for this cocoon coat when the temperature drops. I love the classic shape.
Style with all-black to let the pattern pop.
We've said it before, and we'll say it again: These classic sneakers aren't going anywhere.
8. A Relaxed Midi Dress + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Knitted midi dresses are such an easy option for autumn/winter, and ballet flats are everywhere right now. All in all, this look is a winner.
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Style this flowy dress over turtlenecks in winter and on its own when spring comes back around.
H&M does basics so well. I love wearing socks with flats for extra warmth come autumn.
These flats are comfy and stylish in equal measure.
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