If you haven’t heard the news yet, let us catch you up: Flats are back in fashion. And thank goodness for that, because as much as we love the confidence that comes with wearing a killer pair of heels, the equally-as-killer foot pain is something that we’re happy to let go of. So, we’re taking a hint from some of our favorite fashion girlies (such as Bella Hadid and Jennifer Lopez) and embracing the flat while it’s back.
When it comes to what kind of flats are trending right now, there’s one style that’s doing laps around the rest: ballet flats. Typically made from a flexible material like leather, satin, or canvas, ballet flats have a round toe box and a stretchy strap that covers the top of the foot. However, other styles like square- and pointy-toe flats have also been spotted on celebrities as of late, as well as loafer-inspired silhouettes that look just as natural at the office as they do on the street.
Whatever form of flat you’re personally drawn to, there’s no denying the versatility and comfort these shoes can offer. They're fit for any occasion, from work conferences to weekends with friends, and some are even flexible enough to throw in your purse as a backup option for days when you feel a blister coming on. Even still, We know there are hundreds upon hundreds of flats out there right now, so we did the hard work for you and narrowed it down to the Top 10 styles on the web.
How We Found The Best Flats
Whether you want a polished, pointed-toe pick or an everyday option that can withstand even the longest commutes, there's a pair of flats on this list for every budget and occasion. To round it up, we turned to our data-driven algorithm that ranks products by factoring in best-seller lists, rave reviews, editorial mentions, and more. What does that mean for you? Unbiased recommendations—always. Scroll on to shop the 10 styles that made the cut and add a pair (or two) to your collection.
All products and deals are sourced by the Rank & Style team using data and expert insights. If you shop through our links, we may earn a commission—at no extra cost to you.
Jump To ProductsAugust 8, 2023
Authors
Sierra Rogers is a professional writer located in Austin, TX. She earned her BBA from Baylor University and has worked for fashion and tech brands such as Kendra Scott, CNN Underscored, and Manychat.
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Sierra RogersThe Rankings
Best Flats Overall
Our Score
Approved
4.51
User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
WHAT TO LOVE
With over 2,000 rave reviews on Nordstrom's website, this classic flat from Sam Edelman deserves a spot in every woman's wardrobe. It comes in an abundance of on-trend colors and prints, and the buttery-soft leather is to die for.
PROMISING REVIEW
“These are my favorite flats! I bought the navy leather pair for my wedding (yes, I wore flats under my dress the entire time), and it was the best decision I could have made. They are so comfortable, wear easily, and go with just about anything. My husband ended up buying me a replacement pair for our first anniversary—but not before I bought another pair in burgundy and a pair in rose gold for a friend's wedding. I would buy these again and again!”
Best Machine-Washable Flats
Our Score
Approved
4.5
User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
WHAT TO LOVE
Rothy's has gained a reputation in recent times for its comfortable, eco-friendly shoes. This pair is ultra flexible and ready to be worn right out of the box—no painful break-in period required. For women on the go, these shoes can be worn all day, every day.
GOOD TO KNOW
Megan Markle, Emma Roberts, and Lily Collins are all fans of Rothy's.
Best Flats On Amazon
Our Score
Approved
4.3
User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
WHAT TO LOVE
It's hard to argue with this pair's status as the #1 best-selling flats on Amazon. They've earned over 40,000 perfect 5-star reviews, with shoppers raving about how supportive, comfortable, and well-made these shoes are.
GOOD TO KNOW
These shoes are super flexible—fold them up and store them in your gym bag, suitcase, or purse for on-the-go days. Also, they come in nearly 30 different colors and patterns, including snake print, gingham, and faux leather.
Best Minimalistic Flats
Our Score
Approved
4.5
User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
WHAT TO LOVE
While they may look delicate, Everlane's Day Glove flats are shockingly durable (see: the review below). Made from pebbled leather, these flats feature a back pull tab, side vents, a rubber sole, and a cushioned footbed.
PROMISING REVIEW
"I have now purchased four pairs of the Italian Leather Day Glove shoes. They are beautifully cut, higher than most other flats with a really elegant line, and the leather is beautiful and so comfortable. As advised, I went up a size and they are perfect. They are hard wearing and my first pair are now my gardening shoes. Love them. Please never stop making these."
Best Designer Flats
Our Score
Approved
4.69
User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
WHAT TO LOVE
Not only do these flats feel a little more au courant thanks to their square toe design, but they also come in a variety of dreamy colors (like Ice blue and Papaya red). Plus, you can monogram them. Need we say more?
GOOD TO KNOW
Here's a pleasant surprise: The drawstring bow is actually a functional feature—adjust the tie to find the perfect fit.
Best Wedge Flats
Our Score
Approved
4.8
User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
WHAT TO LOVE
These ballet flats aren't really flat at all. In fact, they're wedges with a hidden heel that adds a little lift (20 mm) and a lot of comfort. Combined with the soft calf leather material they're made from, it makes for one seriously stylish shoe.
GOOD TO KNOW
Handmade in Tuscany, these high-quality flats are beloved for their thoughtful construction. The Italian naplak leather M.Gemi is known for molds to your foot while also providing enough flexibility for them to fold in half if needed.
Best Affordable Flats
Our Score
Approved
4.6
User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
WHAT TO LOVE
Old Navy made a good point with this pair. Defined by their textured knit outsole, the Pointy-Toe Ballet Flats are a walkable take on a pair of formal flats—and they're available in four different neutral colors.
GOOD TO KNOW
Here's some feel-good information: These flats are constructed with 50% recycled materials.
Best Square-Toe Flats
Our Score
Approved
4.4
User Reviews
2.5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
5
Social Buzz
WHAT TO LOVE
What could be better than buttery-soft leather and a cushioned insole? The Day Ballet Flats are designed to be comfortable right out of the box, but with their sculptural toe box and sleek construction, they're also stylish and incredibly versatile.
PROMISING REVIEW
"I love these shoes! No break-in period—I got them before a trip to Italy and ended up wearing them every day. The color is beautiful. Get so many compliments on these."
Best French-Inspired Flats
Our Score
Approved
4.8
User Reviews
3
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
WHAT TO LOVE
If you've got wide feet and you struggle to find comfortable flats because of that, look no further than this pair from Margaux. A simple, French-inspired set, The Demis are available in half sizes and three widths (narrow, medium, and wide). Even better, there's also a made-to-order option for a completely customizable fit.
GOOD TO KNOW
The bow on this pair is actually a functional drawcord that you can tighten or loosen it for a comfortable fit.
Best Flats For Travel
Our Score
Approved
4.72
User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
WHAT TO LOVE
These simple flats are just like Tory Burch's classic ballet style, with the exception of their split sole and flexible construction that makes it easy to fold them up and slip them in a tote or carry-on.
GOOD TO KNOW
Worried about walking around in these all day? Worry not, because they have a foam-cushioned footbed and are designed to stretch and conform to your foot with wear.
Authors
Sierra Rogers is a professional writer located in Austin, TX. She earned her BBA from Baylor University and has worked for fashion and tech brands such as Kendra Scott, CNN Underscored, and Manychat.
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