When it comes to my daily footwear, I've always preferred flats or low-heel shoes. Not that I have anything against high-heels, but considering I'm a born-and-bred California girl, the ease and comfort of flat and low-heel shoes just seems to agree with me on a fundamental level. High heels, in my humble opinion, are to be reserved for special occasions or a night when I'm feeling extra flirty. The numerous stylish flats offerings and resurgence of kitten heels in recent years (I'm looking at you, Manolo Maysales) have only helped my case.
On top of that, the right flats or low-heel shoes have an understated elegance that's hard for a higher heel to compete with. I'll never forget seeing a woman walk into a wedding in a breezy floor-length gown with simple sandals on her feet and thinking that she was the chicest person in the room. Suffice to say, I've done a lot of research recently on the best flats and low heels out there. My biggest issue? Putting a cap on my finds, which Nordstrom, Zara, and Mango aren't helping with. They've really been killing it with their selections of flats and low-heel shoes, so I've rounded up my favorite 30 picks just for you, dear reader, below.
Statement sandals that are versatile enough to be worn every day.
The square toe here feels decidedly modern.
I'll be wearing these all summer.
Hot off the chopping block, these are sure to go fast!
Fulfilling all my '90s grunge fantasies.
Metallic accents are everywhere this season, but I'm partial to strappy silver sandals.
The chocolate brown paired with the lug sole has me feeling all the feels. They're perfect.
I'd like to pair these with a black column dress and chunky gold jewelry.
Sporty and chic.
Allow me to introduce you to your essential summer sandals.
For all my Barbiecore fans.
Simple flats at a reasonable price that look more expensive than they are used to be hard to find, but then these babies showed up.
We're ready for vacation (me and the sandals).
The open cross weaving is so nice.
Basic slides you can wear for years to come.
Yes. Just so much yes.
Too cute in red.
Minimal kitten heels have my heart.
Alexa Chung circa 2010, I'm coming for your look.
In case you couldn't get your hands on the Miu Miu version, these are a decidedly good dupe!
Big fan of the fisherman-sandal trend this spring.
When Zara gets it right, they really get it right.
The stitch detail adds interest and a bit of early 2000s flair.
Loving these neutral loafers for summer.
Such a good beige.
Trust me—you'll wear these way more than you think.
I love how simple yet elegant these are.
These are giving Cher Horowitz, which I can always get behind.
Pair these with some vintage jeans and a white tee and you've got the quintessential summer look.
These are, of course, reminiscent of Gucci, but in a subtle way that I think really works.
Up Next: 11 Trends That Will Define the Summer 2023 Fashion Aesthetic
-
Sorry, Crewneck Tees—in 2026, Everyone With Taste Will Be Layering Sweaters Like ThisThe recipe for a perfect winter outfit.
-
I'm Over Basic Sneakers and Boots—These Cool Styles from Nordstrom's Early Black Friday Sale Are FantasticStock up on top-tier shoes for so much less.
-
My Mom Only Shops Affordable Fashion—I Sent Her These 27 Chic, Rich-Looking Nordstrom FindsEverything is under $150.
-
H&M Just Dropped a $40 Version of The Row's Winter Flats I Keep Seeing on Chic New YorkersA sellout is imminent.
-
I Gasped When I Saw These Expensive-Looking and Elegant Items From the Nordstrom Surprise Black Friday SaleUnder-$150 pieces that look high-end.
-
The Ashley Olsen Way to Make Simple Black Coats Look Chic, Not BoringIt's so easy, yet so impactful.
-
I'm a Senior Shopping Editor—29 Pieces I'm Eyeing Ahead of Black Friday That Will Get You Envious Stares and ComplimentsThese are guaranteed to elevate your wardrobe.
-
Yes, Chic Outfits Will Happen With These 32 New Items From Zara, J.Crew, COS, and H&MElevated knits, trend-forward outerwear, and more.
