Flat-out chic alternatives to heels you must invest in

Every summer, the conversation circles how to “dress cool in style”,  airy cotton dresses, breezy skirts and easy tailoring. Yet what often gets overlooked is that true summer dressing starts (and ends) at ground level. Your footwear choice has the power to anchor, transform, and elevate an outfit. This season, flats aren’t just the comfortable fallback; they are the statement. Fashion insiders are abandoning their stilettos in favour of styles that marry ease with edge,  proving that chic doesn’t have to mean sky-high.

Mesh flats

Since The Row’s debut in 2019 and Alaïa’s viral iterations in 2023, mesh flats have become a staple across both summer and autumn wardrobes. Style them with a long white dress, a silk skirt with a tank top, or even denim shorts—topped with oval sunglasses for a minimal yet modern look.

Fisherman sandals

Equally charming in flat or platformed variations, fisherman sandals are an effortless finishing touch. Pair them with jorts, a balloon-sleeve blouse, and a belt for a look that feels both current and casually Isabael Marant!

Chunky leather sandals

With names like Gucci and Valentino leading the way, these bold silhouettes take centre stage in any outfit. Imagine them with barrel jeans and a fitted tank, or a baby tee and hobo bag—equally suited for a European holiday or a Saturday city stroll.

Tie-up sandals

Strappy sandals lend a breezy ease to cargos, mid-length pleats, or straight-leg trousers. For extra impact, tie them over long pants—a styling trick that feels playful yet put-together. Just steer clear of wide palazzos to keep the proportions neat.

Gladiator sandals

The ultimate bohemian flourish. Perfect for mini skirts, ruffled dresses, or micro shorts, gladiators make a statement in every material, from soft suede to structured leather or even denim.

Thong sandals

The minimalist hero of the ’90s and ’00s makes a strong comeback with high-fashion reinterpretations. From Alaïa’s wedge-heeled takes to Bottega Veneta’s ultra-slim straps, these sandals bring elegance to both pants and skirts while keeping the mood unfussy.

Raffia ballet flats

Woven shoes have a heritage that dates back to ancient Egypt and Mexico’s huarache tradition—but today’s versions are fresh, fashion-forward, and runway-approved. Bottega Veneta’s woven updates or raffia Mary Janes (as worn by Aubrey Plaza and Sofia Richie Grainge) prove their relevance. Style them with deep denim, jorts, or a flowing midi skirt for an all-rounder look.

Flats have always been around, but this new wave is about embracing them as a statement rather than a substitute. Whether it’s fisherman sandals for a city afternoon, raffia ballet flats for a polished dinner, or chunky leather soles for vacation wanderings, these styles slip seamlessly from day to night. In a fashion world that’s finally prioritising comfort without sacrificing sophistication, flats have officially replaced heels as the go-to power move.

Lead image: Getty Images

Inside images: The brands
 

Also read: Rahul Mishra wins court order against counterfeits—but why were Badshah, Kapil Sharma, and Orry wearing the fakes?

Also read: The most stylish moments from the Venice Film Festival (so far)