Dressing up flats: a guide*

Whilst heeled shoes are well known for being glamourous, formal and stylish, comfort however isn’t something we would associate with our favourite party shoes. We have probably all sworn never to wear them again, but along comes the next big night out and your favourite stilettos come out to play again. Can flat shoes ever be stylish enough for a big night out?
With brands such as Melissa shoes hitting the footwear market by storm it appears comfort might finally be at the forefront of designer’s minds. Daniel Footwear investigates:

(shoes from a selection at Daniel Footwear)

Formal flats: backless loafers
Whilst they look good, your office heels aren’t the most comfortable shoes you own. If you’re looking for a stylish alternative then take a break and opt for a pair of backless loafers. A great choice that rids you of blisters and discomfort whilst still oozing formality. Originally made popular by Gucci, other brands have since replicated the trend making the loafer one of this season’s must-haves. Choose a black pair and wear with plain-coloured culottes and a chic sleeveless blouse.
You can call them an investment as you can also wear them as part of your off-duty style — a light-coloured loafer works great with loose-fitting, light wash ripped jeans and slouchy t-shirt. Bring the look together with a chic tailored blazer for a look that successfully bridges the gap between smart and casual.

Glamourous flats: embellished sandals
Say hello to embellished sandals! A summer must-have that adds glitz and glamour to any outfit. Many A-listers have walked the red carpet in their sparkly flats. The worst thing about them is that they can only be worn in the summer — step out in them in the winter and prepare for some strange looks and exceptionally cold toes!
Whether you are on vacation or just at your local beer garden they’re perfect for channelling that beach-to-bar look. Keep the rest of your outfit formal or smart-casual at the very least — wearing them with jeans is too casual for a night out with friends. Instead, choose feminine dresses and skirts in cool colours and delicate prints.

Stylish flats: the pointed flat
Ballet flats are our forever friends – a pair of shoes that have been life savers for years now. From work to play, is there anything this super-versatile shoe can’t do?
It’s time to step it up a notch. The pointed pump is the ideal choice for a night out as it is not just comfortable — it’s this season’s must-have shape. For extra evening glamour choose an embellished or lace-up pair to add detail to your look.

I’m a big advocate of flat shoes for any occasion- I can’t even remember the last time I wore heels to work and I always get instant regret if I venture out for the night in a pair. Whilst personally I’m not a fan of the backless loafer on me (how other people pull it off I don’t know) a pair of pointed ballet flats are high on my wish list!

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2 comments for “Dressing up flats: a guide*

  1. I love flats! So nice to not be feeling the pain that heels bring haha x

    What Josie Did Next

  2. Oh yes, flats win every time!