There Are 4 Trending Flat Shoe Styles, and I'm Going to Wear Them All
The Carrie Bradshaw of 2019 might be tempted to pop on a pair of flats. A lot has happened since she last graced our screens in a pair of Manolo pumps, and one of the greatest leaps fashion has done for humankind is completely fall in love with flat shoes. It's not necessarily the shoes that have changed (many of the trending styles are classics), but it's more about how we're wearing them. Continuing from the Teva craze of this summer, comfort and practicality (with a polished twist) is expected to be the forefront attitude for footwear this autumn. Blame the political uncertainty in the world, but it just sort of feels like fashion's in the mood to get things done this season.
A few keys styles are set to take the lead when it comes to flat footwear—one of which is the cyclical favourite: ballet slippers. Though Alexa Chung has remained faithful to them the entire time, I'm seeing new ways to wear ballet slippers that I know you'll love to try. If those aren't your vibe, why not try grandpa loafers or bring out your Mary Janes? Yes, you read that right—there seems to be a flat shoe trending this season, no matter which age you might truly feel at heart. Keep scrolling to discover the trending flat shoes of autumn 2019, how to wear them and then shop our edit.
MARY JANES
This Burberry pair (sold out at the moment!) has been spotted all over Instagram this year. Slightly chunkier with a patent finish and T-bar strap, they ground an outfit in a similar way to Chanel's Velcro sandals. I love how Brittany has paired hers with '80s Meg Ryan–style shorts.
From The Row to Chanel and Burberry, Mary Janes are definitely back. I love the simple, more childlike styles that are made to slip on and run out the door, but if that's too young-looking for you, there are other options that might tempt you. I love pairing mine with slightly cropped, wide-leg trousers or smocked dresses.
SHOP MARY JANES
BALLET SLIPPERS
While French girls and Alexa Chung have never stopped wearing ballet flats, it suddenly feels like they're making a comeback. I've seen lots of barely there pairs, which we can trace back to The Row.
Be it slip-on nude pairs, Repetto black classics or fun vintage prints, we have to wonder why they ever slip from the top of popularity.
Of course, those who know will know that Marks and Spencer makes the most comfortable flats on the high street. Why not try a leopard pair to shake things up this autumn?
SHOP BALLET SLIPPERS
LACE-UPS
Nothing beats a classic brogue; they simply go with everything. Lizzy Hadfield, minimalist extraordinaire, wears her Church's derby shoes on repeat—proof that they're an excellent investment purchase.
Our columnist Monikh led the chunky Velcro-sandal trend, so it's no surprise she's opting for chunky Dr. Martens this season (paired with the perfect trench, of course). This look is more trend-driven than classic but still will work seamlessly no matter your style.
SHOP LACE-UPS
LOAFERS
Grandpa style had a moment this summer—from waistcoats to vacation shirts—but loafers are the extension for autumn. Whether they're penny loafers or Gucci classics, there's an option for all of us. Why not try swapping your sandals for a pair of loafers to wear with your summer dresses and add a blazer?
Of course, you can never go wrong with this classic autumn outfit formula. Blazers, jeans and loafers will never fail you—especially if you go for a jolt of colour.
For those wanting to go for a trend-driven angle, go full-on grandpa and add white socks to for full-scale fashion look. This combo works well with slim-leg trousers or pleated skirt.
SHOP LOAFERS
Marks & Spencer
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