I've never been one to lean on ballet flats, whether they're "in" or not. Maybe it's the rounded toe or bow detailing, but the popular flat-shoe style has simply never clicked with my taste preferences. Instead, I almost always wear heels, from kitten heels to higher stilettos or block heels. They're dressier and feel more sophisticated in my eyes, two qualities I look for in pieces I'm adding to my wardrobe. I like to look nice and put-together—what can I say?
Of course, my feet don't always agree with the heels I frequent, no matter how many times I wear them or how much I break them in. Living in New York City means I walk practically everywhere. When I'm not walking, I'm taking the stairs up or down from the subway or my apartment. They're begging for something different, but I can't quite shake my lifelong aversion to ballet flats. Fortunately, I'm learning that there is more than just one type of shoe. With brands ranging from Zara and Reformation to Prada and The Row leaning on non–ballet flat shoe trends like slippers, mesh sock flats, strappy sandals, court shoes, jelly sandals, and pointy slingback flats, I'm finally ready to put aside my heels (at least a few days a week) and give flats the old college try.
Scroll down to shop 39 ballet flats alternatives I'm considering, all of which are just as elegant and chic as any pair of pumps in my closet.
Shop Elegant Non–Ballet Flat Shoes That Give Heel Energy
I bought a heeled version of these and am convinced I need this flat take as well. The strap detailing is beyond chic.
These luxurious satin slippers will look just as chic at home paired with silk pajamas as they will out in the wild styled with vintage Levi's and a great cashmere sweater.
I actually already own these in black, but they're so comfortable and sophisticated I'm ready to buy a second shade.
I love the contrast of the cream patent leather and black sole on this pair.
When you find a shoe that's actually different from every other style out there, you buy them.
I need a pair of these for my trip this summer to Puglia.
These will make every outfit cooler, especially if it's a simple look. Let the leopard-print slides shine.
No, you don't need to spend hundreds on sleek flip-flops.
The toe loop and suede fabric on these make them look far more expensive than they are.
White soft-leather loafers? Yeah, I need them.
Obsessed.
Get a pair before they sell out because they absolutely will.
Who needs heels when flats this beautiful exist?
Free People did its thing when it made these burgundy boat shoes.
Just wait—these fishnet mules will be everywhere this summer.
A good pair of loafers will get so much wear in the summertime, yes, but all year round, too.
Jelly sandals, meet your 2025 leader.
This ankle cleavage makes for a beautiful flat.
Sometimes, the simplest sandals are the chicest ones.
This new plum version of Tory Burch's viral Pierced Mules is truly unreal. They're famously comfy but also have an outfit-making appearance. What more could you want?
If you wear these point-toe flats with long trousers or full-length jeans, no one will know they're not heels.
A little red jelly flat? Why not?
I found your new everyday flats. Thank me later.
Just easy.
Trust me, your simple outfits will thank you for these gold mules.
How cool are these?
I'm weak to the powers of these baby-blue slides.
Powder pink was all over last season's runways.
These loafers are giving old-money vibes to me. Anyone else?
Birkenstock sandals will never go out of style. They're classic and beloved for a reason.
Suede flip-flops are just the flat shoe your closet's been missing.
I must say Roger Vivier has mastered flats-with-heel-energy like no other brand.
The perfect flat sandals to wear with flowy dresses.
The rhinestones? I'm obsessed.
WWC: Will wear constantly.
Pack these toe-loop leather sandals on your next vacation.
So cute.
I'm not really a trainer person, so this knitted iteration is a perfect solution for me.
Twenty twenty-five was the first year I saw a really flat boot I actually liked.
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I Have Proof—This Flat Shoe Instantly Elevates Both Baggy and Straight-Leg JeansA wardrobe-altering footwear option.
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Two Easy, On-Trend Updates That Make White Summer Dresses Much Less "Predictable" and "Boring"As seen on elite fashion people.
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From L.A. to London, I Just Know This Chic Flat Shoe Will Be in Every It Girl’s WardrobeThey have the Midas touch.
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Forget Trends, I Always Prioritise These “Dated” DressesPlus, sandals you can walk for miles in.
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I Know You “Get” Fashion If You’re Wearing This Shoe Trend in This Specific ColourI'm with them.
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This Sandal Is the Summer 2025 It Buy I Never Saw Coming, But Fashion People Are HookedEven minimalists are interested.
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Courteney Cox Knows This Chic Trainer Colour Looks Much More Expensive Than WhiteShe's worn it for 25+ years, too. How did I not notice?
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Dakota Johnson Just Wore the Flat-Shoe Alternative to Sandals That Makes Skirts and Trousers Extra PolishedThe perfect early-summer shoe.
