Let’s be real. Nine-and-a-half times out of ten (the half is when you can’t even make it off your block without switching into your fast flats: true story), high heels hurt—especially in the city. All of that commuting and post-work running around does an unsightly number on your poor toes (who do not deserve such harsh treatment). But flats have come a long way since then, and we have these fun, quirky, and sophisticated styles to prove it.
Alice + Olivia Liza Leather Tuxedo Flats: Who knew black-tie could reach your feet? Well, these tuxedo-inspired flats are classy, versatile, and the teensiest bit quirky. Keep the black and white trend going with your entire outfit, or wear a boldly colorblocked look and let your shoes steal the show.
Cole Haan Amalia Pointed Toe Half D’Orsay Flats: These sleek d’orsay flats are just as fancy as a pair of heels—without the inevitable ouch factor you’d feel with a five inch heel. Definitely wear them to the office, a semi-fancy event (who says you can’t wear flats to a party? Have they seen these shoes?), and even dressed down with cuffed jeans and an oversized blazer.
Kate Spade New York Go-Taxi Ballet Pointed Toe Flats: Cute, eccentric, and so not your average flats, these terrifically taxi-themed flats are the kinds of feminine, whimsical designs Kate Spade is so well-known for. We can definitely see many a Manhattanite rocking these with tights and Zooey Deschanel-approved dresses and skirts. Love, love, love.
Michael Kors Jemma Snakeskin Tassel Loafers: Snakeskin and tassels are two footwear classics that, shoe designers know, will never fall out of style. Thankfully, this design upholds that classic, multipurpose aesthetic. Wear these off-duty or on when you need a (comfortable) pretty pick-me-up.
Saint Laurent Glitter Leather Mary Jane Pumps: One part Dorothy, one part New Year’s Eve, these glittering mary janes are begging to be worn for a (free of shoe pain) night out. A sleek LBD and tights will draw much-wanted attention to your sparkly shoes, and you’ll feel (and look) like a million bucks. Plus (a super important reason for any girl), they’re pretty.
Modcloth On an Onomatopoeia Flat: Superhero-inspired fashions have never been so widely accepted before (maybe its because the actors are getting cuter and cuter? Just saying). These (literally) bam and pow flats—with their bold blue, red, and yellow colors—pay homage to all of the comic book heroes out there, from Spidey to Super Man—so it’s okay if you can’t choose a favorite.
