From Slides to Ballet Pumps, These Flat Shoes Are Perfect for Summer

Heels are out, flats are in. Just kidding—we don't believe fashion works that way. But while it might not be that black and white, there's no disputing the fact that fashion people are loving flat shoes lately.

Debora wears Alaïa's trending mesh flats—join the waitlist so you're alerted when your size is back in stock.

With the arrival of summer and the subsequent desire to spend as much time as possible outside, heels just don't feel practical right now. I live in Edinburgh, a city filled with steep side streets and crooked cobblestones, and speaking from experience, any sole higher than one or two inches makes a simple stroll around town much harder to navigate.

Strappy sandals are a popular choice for SS24, especially in neutral shades like black and beige.

So, I'm here for the low shoe craze. It helps that most of the season's bigger footwear trends come in flat-sole form. Think fisherman sandals, ballet pumps, elevated flip-flops—the list goes on. With so many cool (and comfortable) styles to choose from, it's no wonder flats are dominating the summer. Plus, they're incredibly easy to style, particularly if you stick to minimal, neutral designs free from frills and shiny hardware.

To give you a picture of what I'm talking about, I've sifted through my favourite footwear brands and rounded up the stand-out options below. From high-street to high-end, the finished list is brimming with chic flat shoes for summer. Scroll on to see for yourself.

Marilyn styles her Massimo Dutti Mary Janes with white socks and a denim skirt.

Shop the Best Flat Summer Shoes

1. Fisherman Sandals

Style Notes: Both practical and stylish, the fisherman sandal is the perfect shoe for the unpredictable UK weather. Wear them on their own when the sun is out, but this classic style also looks great with socks on those cooler summer days.

Shop Fisherman Sandals:

2. Strappy Sandals

Style Notes: You can't get any more classic than the strappy sandal and for SS24 we're focusing on minimal styles that can pair well with jeans, dresses and skirts alike.

Shop Strappy Sandals:

3. Slides

Style Notes: Sliders are my go-to throw on sandal in summer. Easy to style with everything, this low-effort shoe is back again this year in several different colours, shapes and designs.

Shop Slides:

4. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Ballet flats are a shoe that can be worn all year round, but for the warmer months, opt for more practical designs for long-lasting comfort.

Shop Ballet Flats:

5. Loafers

Style Notes: Loafers are a timeless shoe style that immediately smarten-up every outfit. This remains true in summer, pairing well with button-up shirts, maxi dresses and linen trousers (and much more!)

Shop Loafers:

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