Dakota Johnson Just Wore the Flat-Shoe Alternative to Sandals That Makes Skirts and Trousers Extra Polished
Just as quickly as sandal season arrived, it vanished. But don’t worry, Dakota Johnson has already found the chic flat-shoe alternative to wear instead.


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:

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.
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