In Case You Need a Flats Refresh, These Gorgeous New Pairs Are Worth It

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woman wearing ecru barn jacket, white t-shirt, blue straight leg cuff jeans, white socks, black flat loafers, black handbag

(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

Flat shoes are one of those wardrobe items that see a lot of wear and tear, especially in my closet. As a fashion editor who's constantly on the go, I really put them to the test daily, running around to market appointments, meetings with designers, and preview events. But even the best cobbler simply can’t undo the damage that these New York streets often take on my soles. That is why I love a good, seasonal refresh, as I start transitioning my wardrobe for the new season ahead.

Thankfully, flat shoes are having a moment, so there are plenty of choices out there for me to invest in (and plenty of styling opportunities to boot!). Say so long to tired soles and blister-ridden ankles and hello to cute and affordable options that will withstand days on your feet. The best thing about all of these flat shoes is they are actually comfortable. I put them to the test, so you can rest assured that these on-trend styles (such as minimalist-friendly loafers, shiny Mary Janes, and yes, even the return of the preppy, boat shoes) are going to keep you on your toes, so to speak. Go ahead and shop all of my favorite flat shoes for spring below.

GLOVE FLATS

woman wearing khaki trench coat, blue denim jacket, white t-shirt, black jeans, red flat shoes

(Image credit: @ruerodier)

It's no secret that flats are trending. For the season ahead, we are leaning into glove flats. They're cleaner than their ballerina cousin and are embellishment-free with a higher cut on the foot. Pro tip: You'll want to pick a pair in quality leather to ace this one.

SLEEK LOAFERS

woman wearing cream barn jacket, white T-shirt, blue straight-leg jeans, white socks, black loafer shoes, black handbag

(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

Forget the creepers and chunkier loafers this season. Instead, lean into sleek and chic, minimalist loafers in neutral colors. We love them styled with a sock for chillier, spring days and bare when that warmer weather hits.

BOAT SHOES

woman sitting on curb wearing brown leather jacket, white t-shirt, brown suede hobo bag, ecru pants, brown boat shoes, black sunglasses

(Image credit: @lucywilliams02)

Yes, they’re back. The prepster staple is seeing a revival and we are all in. Heritage favorite brands are worth investing in, but be sure to keep styling modern and not too yacht club. They look super cool with a toughened-up, leather jacket, T-shirt, and jeans combo.

MARY JANES WITH SHINE

woman sitting wearing black tweed mini dress, gold metallic Mary Jane flat shoes, Chanel quilted bag

(Image credit: @helenacuesta)

Another flat shoe style we are obsessed with are the buckled Mary Janes, which have been on our minds in a big way. Right now, we are gravitating toward a fresher interpretation of the shoe in shiny finishes. Whether that means metallic colorways, something with a glossy patent finish, or even a satin sheen, a little shine is the way to go.

RETRO SNEAKERS

woman in front of stone wall wearing blue button down shirt, white denim maxi skirt, green Adidas sneakers, carrying brown shoulder bag

(Image credit: @mariamacfarlanee)

Maybe it is the off-duty supermodel street-style effect, but retro sneakers are everywhere. Extremely versatile, given their classic nature, these vintage-inspired kicks can be styled with anything from fluid slip dresses, jeans, and yes, denim maxi skirts. There is no denying that all of our picks will see plenty of wear in the next few months ahead.

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