Some Flat-Shoe and Dress Combinations Don't Work, But These 4 Definitely Do
Once upon a time, it was almost inconceivable to imagine styling a dress with anything but heels. Whether heading into the office, going out for lunch on the weekend or attending a special event, our poor feet never got a break. But luckily for both our wardrobes and our ankles, times have changed and trends have evolved. These days, we're styling almost any dress in our wardrobe with flats of some sort, whether that be sleek trainers, pointed-toe ballet flats, or pair of sharp loafers.
All of these covetable styles will evoke a different mood in a dress, depending on which you choose; and it certainly helps that flat shoes continue to be a top footwear trend for 2024, with swaths of new, chic and comfortable designs continuing to appear. If you're still trying to figure out how to swap out the heels for flats this season, read on top discover four ways to wear flat shoes with dresses that are easy to copy, along with my shoppable picks for re-creating the look.
1. LINEN DRESS + MINIMALIST SANDALS
Style Notes: A trusty linen dress is a wardrobe must-have, especially for the really warm days. A minimal sandal style allows you to keep the outfit polished without punishing your feet with an uncomfortable stiletto.
Shop the Look:
This effortless number is the ideal linen dress for warm weather.
2. BILLOWY DRESS + SLEEK LOAFERS
Style Notes: As we approach warmer days, a billowy dress becomes more and more tempting. But to keep it professional enough for work—and suitable for unpredictable British spring weather—a trusty loafer is in order.
Shop the Look:
This billowy dress can be styled for work or weekends.
So comfortable and so easy to wear.
3. MINI DRESS + RETRO TRAINERS
Style Notes: Unlike chunky trainers, sleeker retro styles add a cool edge without dressing down a dress too much. The charm of retro trainers is in their sporty edge that can make any simple dress feel more "fashion".
Shop the Look:
This is my dream summer dress—swap the trainers for heels and you've got a brilliant evening look.
Every wardrobe needs a reliable pair of Sambas.
4. EVENING DRESS + ANKLE-TIE BALLET FLATS
Style Notes: Gone are the days when we had to bring out the heels when dressing for an occasion. Ankle-tie ballet flats make for an elegant pairing that will see you through your evening events in style.
Shop the Look:
This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer. Having worked in the fashion industry since her time at university—where she obtained a BA in Journalism from University of the Arts London, Natalie's experience spans journalistic and styling roles. In the early stages of her career Natalie predominately worked on editorial shoots for fashion publications such as British Vogue, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK, before moving into journalism roles.
On completion of her degree she interned in the editorial team at British Vogue and later went on to freelance for the publication. Here, she developed her interest in reporting on the latest fashion news and trends. Inspired by the dynamic nature of the industry, Natalie went on to write for other lifestyle and fashion brands and publications before taking on the role as News Writer for Who What Wear.
With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Focusing on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion, Natalie reports on a daily basis, ensuring that she remains ahead of the trends. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.
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