Buh-Bye, Heels—The "Ugly" Flat-Shoe Trend I Saw So Many Celebs Wear After the Met Gala
They might be divisive, but Maison Margiela's Tabi ballet flats are a firm favourite amongst the celebrity style set. Discover how Zendaya and Emma Chamberlain styled their pairs post-Met Gala.


If you're in the market for a really comfortable pair of shoes, look at what celebrities wear immediately after a big event.
Red-carpet heels might look incredible, but they’re rarely chosen with comfort in mind. The morning after, however? That’s when the truth comes out. And there’s no better time to investigate than by studying the post-Met Gala hotel departures.
After a long evening spent in towering heels and theatrical couture, the day after the Met Gala must be devoted to comfort, and I've already spotted a shoe trend amongst some of my favourite A-list attendees. Packing up their heels, celebrities were quick to slip into Maison Margiela's Tabi Split-Toe Leather Ballet Flats (£750) after this year's event.
Clearly desperate to give their feet a break, Zendaya and Emma Chamberlain ditched their stilettos in favour of Maison Margiela's iconic (and controversial) Tabi flats on Tuesday morning. With their signature hoof-like silhouette, Tabis are undeniably divisive. Some call them avant-garde, others can’t get past the cloven-hoof design. But amongst fashion insiders? They have cult status as the ultimate "ugly shoe".
Only hours earlier, Zendaya was teetering in 150mm Jimmy Choo Max platform stilettos, whilst Chamberlain opted for a sharp pair of pointed-toe pumps—so it’s no surprise both gravitated towards something flatter (and far more forgiving) the next morning. Whilst they might not be to everyone’s taste, Tabis just won't quit. And when some of the world’s best-dressed celebs choose the same flats after fashion's biggest night out? It just might be time to consider them yourself.
Read on to discover and shop Tabis.
SHOP MARGIELA'S TABI SHOES:
A black leather loafer is a wardrobe hero you'll always come back to.

Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer and has worked in the fashion industry since she graduated with a degree in Journalism from the University of the Arts London. Natalie’s experience in the industry spans journalistic and styling roles that have seen her work for publications including British Vogue, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK.
With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Reporting on a daily basis, Natalie focuses on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.
-
People With Cool Style Are Suddenly Wearing This Vintagey Heel Trend With Pants and Skirts
I'd take a break from flats for these.
-
Everyone Will Copy J.Law and Wear This "Ugly" Shoe Trend With Jeans and Trousers
Starting at just $20.
-
My Friend in NYC Wants to Ditch Her Simple Flats—I Told Her to Try These 2 Trendier Styles Instead
Comfy and chic.
-
I Just Wore Those Viral Jelly Shoes That Are Selling Out Everywhere for 9 Hours—This Is What Shocked Me
Here's my firsthand review.
-
Trendy Flats This, Trendy Flats That—These New Ballet Loafers Will Sell Out First
Gigi Hadid approves.
-
2025's Favorite Flats? Say Boat Shoes, Loafers, or Slippers and You'll Be Wrong
Keep guessing.
-
Jennifer Lawrence Just Deemed This Flat-Shoe Trend Elegant Enough to Wear to a Fancy NYC Fashion Party
Trust her—she knows what she's doing.
-
So You Have an Eye on Everything Designer But Not the Budget—31 Luxe-Looking Finds That Scratch the Itch
Everything is under $150.