It’s that time of year again where we’re juggling multiple social events from office Christmas parties to catch-ups over the holidays and gatherings with family and friends. This inevitably means having to get dolled up a time or two and if you’re not such a huge fan of heels then I do have another option for you: dressy flats.
If you’re going to do flats to an event just be sure to be mindful of the length of your outfit to ensure it elongates rather than shortens you. So keep pants cropped at the ankle to show off the shoe whilst dresses and skirts that are knee length to midi length look great with a flat. If you’re going to do a mini it’s also a great shoe option as it helps to ground the look. Apart from that you’re good to go!
I’ve embraced wearing flats to various occasions and I have to say it’s a game-changer. I can just get on with having a great time and not have to deal with aching feet throughout the course of an evening. And there are so many great options available out there that are on equal footing as some of the most gorgeous heels around. From those with dramatic embellishments to intricate detail and fashion forward shapes—there’s seriously a pair to suit any occasion.
If there’s one thing that’s paramount to me when it comes to my style these days it’s comfortable footwear. I tend to favour flats most days unless I’ve got an event that requires something a little dressier. That said, flats have certainly come a long way–they’re now equally as stylish if not more so than their slightly more vertiginous counterparts and the best bit is you can walk in them all day without any issues. Whether it’s a ballet flat or a great loafer you’re after, these are some of the best styles out there at the moment that will have you walking around in style.
The elegant style of this shoe is taken in a slightly edgier direction by the studded detail. A great option for those times when you want an elevated flat that looks dressy.
If you don’t own a pair of neutral flats it’s definitely work considering this beauty by Chloé. The scalloped edges make for a pretty finish whilst the simple style makes it quite versatile.
It’s time for summer sandals to go into hibernation and in its place is a gorgeous range of winter flats options. From brogues, to ballet flats and loafers, the styles this season are plentiful so you’ll definitely find a pair to suit your style. Go for rich shades such as black and burgundy, fun finishing details such as fringing and ribbons or a cute feline inspired appliqué. Be sure to team flats with cropped pants to flash a little ankle and you’re sorted for the season.
When I was working full time I used to always wear high heels to the office. I know when it comes to workwear it can be nice to have a little height in the footwear department to help add some polish to an outfit but I’ve since learned that flats can work equally as well, if not more so. These days when I’m going to office I may have the girls in the morning or in the afternoon so my outfit has to look professional yet be comfortable at the same time. This is where I’ve found having a great flats wardrobe can come in handy. These are some of my dos and don’ts of wearing them to work…
Do experiment with different flats
I’ve found the best flats for the office are ballet flats, brogues and loafers [the closed kind not slides as these can look a little too casual] and flat boots for winter [see in order below]. Try to keep your flats as streamlined and simple as possible to keep them professional.
Do wear flats with dresses
If you tend to favour dresses for the office you’ll be pleased to hear that you can get away with swapping your heels in favour of flats for this particular look. I’ve found that flats look really great with tailored dresses and maintains a classy effect.
Winning combination: Alexa Chung does ballet flats and a dress/ Image via Stockholm Street Style
Do opt for a slim trousers
Wide leg pants are on trend this season but I’ve found that they tend to work better with heels, especially if you’re on the shorter side. However when it comes to slim fitting trousers you can definitely afford to go with flats. A slim silhouette will help elongate your figure and when teamed with flats it looks very Audrey Hepburn-esque.
Don’t forget to flash some ankle
Make sure that if you’re wearing pants that they’re cropped so you are showing some ankle. This length will tend to be a little more flattering when worn with pants.
Do keep your look quite preppy
Flats such as man-style loafers and ballet flats work are a match made in heaven with a preppy-style outfit. Think a collared white shirt and a knee length skirt. It’s a little collegiate, definitely office appropriate and a stylish alternative to traditional corporate wear.
Image: Stockholm Street Style
Don’t forget about the finishing touches
Flats don’t have to be boring. Keep an eye out for interesting finishing touches. Tassels, discreet bows, or a metal horsebit accent are all great ways to take an ordinary flat from so-so to stylish. One of my favourite brogues has a metal toe cap (see pic above) and I find that this helps give them a point of difference.
Do leave socks at home
A lot of flats look better sans socks so make sure to give them a miss. As I said earlier, flashing some ankle is flattering as it helps to emphasise the slimmest part of your leg. Also, socks can look a little too bulky.
Do team flats with opaque stockings
In winter I know going bare legged can be a little chilly so pairing a pair of flat boots with opaque black stockings and a nice dress is a good office appropriate look. I tend to favour stockings in black as opposed to nude as it looks much fresher and more modern.
Tell me – are you a fan of wearing flats to the office?
This season it’s all about the loafer or the brogue. Both comfortable and stylish, they’re the perfect shoe options when you’re bored of boots and ballet flats and want something to change up your winter footwear repertoire. Whether you’re a loafer girl or a fan of the brogue through and through there are plenty of great options to have you stepping out in style this winter.
Loafers
Leather loafers are a great alternative to the trusty ballet flat. A pair in basic black will see you through the season and beyond, however if you want to something a little more fun why not try a pair in a vibrant Gucci-esque red or a cool leopard print. Alternatively, neutral tones such as a camel or tan will complement most outfits and not completely overpower. The key with this look? A flash of ankle is important so be sure to pair them with cropped pants or jeans or a midi hem.
Brogues
Steal a little style inspiration from the boys this season with brogues. They’re a more polished alternative to sneakers and just about as comfy. I know I wear mine to death as I love how they help ground an outfit but in a practical sense they’re comfy enough to help me keep up with a very active toddler! You can opt for classic colours such as tan or black however I went for a silver for something a little different plus metallics are a no-brainer for the evening so they’re a good option for dressing up an outfit for a night time event. As with loafers my tip is to always flash a bit of ankle to create a sense of proportion in your outfit. You can pair loafers with feminine pastels and fun prints or if you want a slightly more tomboy look, add a blazer and boyfriend jeans.
