Three years ago, most of my outfits centred around heels. My daily wares were always on the casual side, so I had to rely on heels—be they kitten, slingback or platform styles—to give my looks, for lack of a better term, a lift. What can I say? Flat shoes just weren't my thing. Now, my tastes have changed across the length and breadth of my wardrobe. My clothes are considerably more timeless than they once were—think quiet luxury with H&M, Arket and COS in place of Prada, Khaite and The Row. While I still appreciate heels, my footwear sensibilities have shifted too. As it seems the rest of the population is, I'm now completely obsessed with flat shoes.
With warm weather on the horizon, sandals are obviously going to become a go-to. But they're not appropriate for every scenario. Luckily, the demand for flat shoes is at an all-time high, which means the market is suitably saturated with them. If you find yourself in need of some new flat shoes, it's wise to narrow the offerings down to the trending styles before you make your decision. As a treat, I decided to do the hard work for you by tracking down the flat-shoe trends currently catching the eyes of fashion people.
From the timely update to classic loafers to the pretty slip-on you can wear with jeans and dresses alike, scroll on to discover the five flat-shoe trends to know this season.
1. Ballet Pumps
Style Notes: Ballet flats never go out of style, but there's no denying that they've never been as prevalent as they are now. Worn with everything from jeans to on-trend full midi skirts, there's no easier way to add instant polish to your outfits.
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The square toe is such a cool touch.
These woven flats are perfect for hot days.
Suede ballet flats? How chic.
2. Fisherman Sandals
Style Notes: Fisherman sandals have been the It shoe style of the past two years, and they're going nowhere for the remainder of 2024. Past iterations usually featured a thick sole, but the latest offerings of fishermans are significantly daintier in comparison. Just add socks for autumn/winter.
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No one would believe these are a high street find.
The Row's fisherman sandals have earned themselves icon status.
I love the stitching detail.
3. Mary Janes
Style Notes: Mary Janes have been popular in fashion circles for seasons, though they've shape-shifted somewhat. Previously clunky with a high heel, the shoes have evolved, and now, flat soles in are all the rage.
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These look great with jeans, but are elegant enough to be paired with occassion dresses.
So subtle.
How perfect are these for spring/summer?
4. Clogs
Style Notes: If there's one thing we've found in recent years, it's that clogs are here for all of your transseasonal flat-shoe needs. Birkenstocks remain incredibly sought after, but there are plenty of other iterations to choose from.
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The classic.
Make a statement.
These look so good with baggy jeans.
5. Suede Loafers
Style Notes: Loafers are a mainstay in the shoe collections of fashion people, and they're not going anywhere this season. To soften the look, opt for suede finish loafers.
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So chic.
Icons.
Unbelievably elegant.
This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
