I'm 53 and Exclusively Wear Flat Shoes—I'll Never Retire These 8 Styles

We routinely turn to Tracey Lea Sayer, the 53-year-old fashion maverick, influencer and all-round industry expert for guidance. And while age should have nothing to do with your style choices (Sayer will certainly attest to this!), we’re always interested in her fashion viewpoint, specifically given her experience over the years building a well-rounded wardrobe as a stylish woman over 50.

Today, we wanted to gain further insight into some of the go-to shoe silhouettes she swears by. And while she wears a variety, there’s one key style she wears on repeat and will never retire: flat shoes. Yes, really, flat shoes. Notwithstanding the style's comfortable and versatile nature, Sayer details exactly why that is below.

I am a huge flat shoe aficionado because, for me, comfort is key! I did all the killer heels between my 20s and 40s, and when I say heels… I mean heels. I wore everything from Vivienne Westwood’s iconic elevated platforms (the ones Naomi Campbell fell over in—I was backstage when she went flying), to vintage ‘70s platforms when I was in my Deee-Lite disco era.

Now, however, you will very rarely see me in anything that elevates above the ground. I prefer footwear that is a little more low-fi, something that never dates and works hard in my wardrobe; flat shoe classics with a modern edge that I can re-spin year after year.

Below, you’ll find the eight flat shoe styles I will never give up on wearing, complete with styling notes on how I like to style them most. And if you’re inspired to add one of my must-have silhouettes into your repertoire as well, I've also rounded up chic styles to consider if you’re shopping at the moment.

The 7 Best Flat Shoe Styles for Women

1. White Trainers

Style Notes: As soon as it gets a bit warmer, I swap out my sandals for a pair of simple white trainers. Inspired by designers like Margaret Howell and expensive-looking high-street brands like Arket, I build a lot of my basics around this unassuming, classic style, making them one of the best flat shoes for women, ever. Plimsoles, my preferred shape, are quite streamlined and slim in shape, meaning they'll look great with linen pieces and matching co-ords while equally dressing down an airy summer dress. They are easy and effortless to pull off, and they don’t break the bank.

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2. Lace-Up Sandals

Style Notes: Over the years, I have realised that I crave the same styles each summer. For as long as I can remember, I have drooled over the Ancient Greek Sandals on Net-A-Porter. They look great with my silky column dresses and a really cute with a crisp white t-shirt and sarong skirt for work. The perfect flat footwear style for far-flung travels and balmy days at home.

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3. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Any fashion director who has spent 12+ hours straight on a photoshoot will tell you that ballet flats are a must-have. I love their practicality and comfort, and I like to experiment with pointed-toe shapes rather than the traditional round-toe ballet flats, even though I do appreciate their cool French-girl vibes.

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4. Loafers

Style Notes: I have worn loafers for years, long before they became the popular flat shoe that they are today. I bought my first pair 30 years ago when I was a student. They were patent leather mock croc from Patrick Cox on Sloane Square. This forever-style flat is a real go-to for me. This year, I upgraded my traditional black ones and invested in a buttery soft white leather pair from COS. They immediately gave all my old high-street pieces a designer edge and I've loved wearing them with my '90s-cut Levis 501s they made me feel like a 20-year-old again.

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5. Flip-Flops

This summer, flip-flops have revolutionised everything in my wardrobe, from cotton co-ords to a fresh new way to make my wide-leg trousers work for work. Sold. Although they may become redundant in the British winter months, I keep them on standby for travelling for work. Then, they’re always the first thing I reach for come warm days.

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6. Boots

Style Notes: Flat shoes innately lean themselves to lighter styles popular in summer months, but the idea of slipping into a heel is even less inviting come winter. I love flat boots for this reason. They're perfect for stomping around in, but come in so many sophisticated styles. Whether you're reaching for a black knee-high pair or a brown hue that cuts at the ankle, this is one flat shoe you won't regret investing in.

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7. Colourful Trainers

Style Notes: Okay, so I know we've already talked about classic white trainers but, as I'm sure many other flat-shoe obsessives will agree, especially those who put comfort above all else, one pair of trainers is never enough. I have always loved a colourful, retro trainers, especially for running around town on appointments. I get so many compliments on these New Balance shoes. Also, when I wear them, they always put a smile on my face. That, in my opinion, is how you should always feel about your look.

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7. Dad Sandals

Style Notes: There is just something about the chunky ‘dad’ style sandal that appeals to me. Maybe it is the "gorpcore” nerdiness of them, or maybe it is the fact that they are so damn comfy! Whatever it is, they are my go-to dog walking sandals all summer long. But their brilliance doesn’t stop there. Dad sandals give a suit a cool edge and they stop flouncy dresses from looking to twee. To me, the original and the best are Tevas.

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