If you live in the UK, then you probably started your morning with the same exhale of frustration as I did: peeking out your window to discover that our streak of balmy early summer days had been rudely interrupted by a downpour of rain. Clearly no longer the sandal weather we had grown accustomed to but still, in my opinion, too warm and stuffy to reach for full-coverage shoes, I was at a loss. Then, I discovered that coincidentally, Dakota Johnson had just stepped out in the chic sandals alternative that’s perfect for a slighter sadder forecast.
Trading in open-toe styles for something with a little more material going for it, I spotted Johnson wearing a pair of chocolate brown, square-toe flat slingback shoes, styled with a calf-grazing midi skirt, a delicate white lace top and Gucci's Giglio Large Tote Bag (£1600) while out in New York this week.
Still offering a subtle flash of skin while keeping the toes covered, Johnson’s slingback flats are an elegant alternative for those of us hesitant to fully commit to summer footwear.
Unlike Mary Janes, with their soft, rounded silhouette, or the dainty straps of a sandal, slingbacks have a sharper, more streamlined shape that adds instant polish to a look without the need for a heel. This makes them the perfect companion for calf-length dresses and skirts, as well as trousers and jeans, naturally.
In fact, of all the flat shoe trends we've seen emerge over the past few seasons, this might just be my favourite. Scroll on to discover my edit of the best slingback flats to shop now.
SHOP SLINGBACK FLAT SHOES:
Style these with a swishy skirt or pair with classic straight-leg jeans.
These also come in black, beige and burgundy.
Fashion people will be wearing these all summer long.
Honestly, these look more expensive than they actually are.
The pointed-toe design gives these such a sleek and polished energy.
These also come in classic black, but this honey hue offers a softer payoff.
These also come in a metallic silver shade.
The animal print trend isn't showing any signs of slowing down.
The bold front bow gives these such a playful edge.
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