As a Who What Wear editor, I study what European girls are wearing all day every day, and something I've noticed is that they love flat shoes. The reasons why are fairly obvious—many European cities are very walkable, but the road conditions aren't always ideal (think old, cracked sidewalks, hills, and cobblestone streets). While ballet flats and Mary Janes are obvious European-girl favourites, I've noticed a few other styles they're gravitating toward lately that are considerably fresher (not that Mary Janes and ballet flats are going anywhere).
From the luxe trainer trend they're favouring to the specific loafer colour that's dominating across the pond, these European-girl flats would make great fall shoe purchases no matter where you reside. And in case you are in the market for a new pair of flats, I searched the internet high and low and found the best bets for each trend. Keep scrolling to shop them so we can all catch up with the fashion girls in Europe.
7 Flat Shoe Trends Everyone Is Wearing in Europe:
1. Brown Loafers
Style Notes: Sorry, black loafers. Brown is the new It colour for shoes, and European girls are fully on board. They lend a rich, elegant quality to any outfit they're paired with.
Shop Brown Loafers:
A fresh alternative to black.
I can't believe these are from the high-street.
How cool is this suede pair?
2. Leopard-Print Flats
Style Notes: All things leopard print are huge in Europe this season, and that includes footwear. A pair of sleek flats is the perfect way to wear the trend.
Shop Leopard-Print Flats:
The leopard-print trend isn't showing any signs of slowing down.
So easy to style.
If you prefer a square toe.
3. Suede Sneakers
Style Notes: If you want to be comfortable and look chic, a pair of suede sneakers will lend the luxe look you desire. European influencers are embracing designer styles from Miu Miu and Dries Van Noten.
Shop Suede Sneakers
These have such a retro feel to them.
A pair to go with everything.
Veja is a fashion-person favourite.
4. Pointed-Toe Slingbacks
Style Notes: Pointed-toe slingbacks are so wildly elegant that you may never feel the need to wear heels again.
Shop Pointed-Toe Slingbacks:
Simple, but so very effective.
This cream pair looks so elegant.
Tick off two trends in one.
5. Riding Boots
Style Notes: If English-countryside chic is the aesthetic you're going for, your next purchase should be a pair of riding boots. (Bonus points given for wearing them with a barn jacket.)
Shop Riding Boots:
Wear with skirts, dresses and trousers alike.
Imagine this tan pair with a classic denim midi skirt.
You'll get so much wear out of these.
6. Boat Shoes
Style Notes: Thanks in large part to Miu Miu, boat shoes are having a moment. The loafer-adjacent style lends a casual, preppy vibe to an outfit.
Shop Boat Shoes:
I love the contrast lace on this pair.
This white pair is a great way to freshen up your autumn outfits.
These will go with everything.
7. Mesh Flats
Style Notes: Mesh flats continue to be very popular among European girls, who often pair them with skirts.
Shop Mesh Flats:
I love how these are styled.
Use these to show off your autumn pedicure.
The bows are so cute!
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