Be free and footloose this summer with our complete guide to summer flats. From ballet pumps to espadrilles we’ve got all the flat footwear styles you need to know covered.
Ballet pumps
Love them or loathe them, ballet pumps are back for another season. Ballet pumps can be found in a huge range of colours and designs, making the options limitless.
This feminine shoe style looks great with skinny jeans, midi skirts and tailored shorts.
Pointed ballet flats
Slightly smarter looking, pointed ballet flats add some sass to the classic ballet shoe. For special occasions look for embellished uppers or designs with intricate detailing such as lace-up pointed flats which tie elegantly around the ankle.
Espadrilles
Sunny espadrilles are big for this summer – invest in classic block colour espadrilles or have fun with printed uppers in unique patterns.
Variations on the classic espadrille include open-toe designs, flat-form espadrilles, two-part espadrilles and espadrilles with ankle ties.
Perforated uppers or uppers embellished with jewels or studs add detail. We love Soludos and Michael Kors for espadrilles.
Slip-on plimsolls
Toms and Vans are two go to brands for classic slip-ons in fashion-forward designs. For casual looks slip-on plimsolls in classic canvas are always useful or go for leather-look uppers in snake print.
River Island and H&M are worth checking out for cheap and cheerful slip-on plimsolls.
Lace-up plimsolls
Whiter than white or nicely scuffed, what do your white plimsolls say about you? Converse isn’t the only option – Lacoste, Fred Perry, Superga and Keds make great plimsolls too.
Flatforms – lace up flatforms & flatform sandals
Flatforms are useful if you need an extra couple of inches and want to avoid heels. The flatform stands modestly between the flat-soled sandal and the platform.
Steve Madden pioneered the trend back in 1990s and it's back in force for another season. Structured flatform lace-ups make a funky style statement, or give yourself a lift in a pair of strappy flatform sandals.
Strappy sandals
For a dressed-up sandal look for metallic silver or gold straps and jewel embellishments or for casual cool, tassels and fringing are still on trend. A mini wedge sandal is another option if full-on flats aren’t your thing.
Lace-up ghillie sandals
Lace-up ghillie sandals are a big trend for this year, featuring either a flat sole, mini wedge or block heel. Dress up your ghillie sandals with a pleated silk midi skirt and cropped tailored jacket.
Toe post flat sandals
Toe post sandals are a foot flattering and fashionable option. Toe post sandals provide less support to the foot than caged or strappy sandals, so make sure you look for toe-post sandals which have an ankle strap.
Gladiator sandals
The sandal with the most attitude is undoubtedly the gladiator sandal. Be fierce in knee-high gladiator sandals, or simple tan leather gladiator sandals go with most summer outfits.
Espadrille sandals
Espadrille sandals have the woven raffia sole of an espadrille with a strappy open-toe design and ankle tie.
Chunky sandals
Look for thick soles with a low block heel, thick straps and big buckles. Chunky white soles stand out or thick black cleated soles give a rock-chick edge. Extra details to look for include croc-effect straps or chains on straps.
Slider sandals
Slider sandals are a sporty look great for by the pool or off-duty wear. adidas Originals have a good range – with variations including metallic straps or bright pink soles
Style your slider sandals with cropped jogging bottoms and athleisure wear for laid-back city style.
Flip-flops
Don’t spoil your holiday with a badly made pair of flip-flops which rub. If in doubt, Havaianas flip-flops are always comfy and won’t fall apart no matter how many beaches you walk to, just try not to lose them in the sea.
Havaianas also have a range of flip-flops with a soft strap around the back of the heel for added support. Fit Flops are also worth considering if you want to tone-up whilst walking. Leather flip-flop sandals are a smarter option which can take you from day to night.
Mules
Flat loafer mules and wooden mule sandals are on trend. Birkenstock mules are unbeatable for comfort and posture and will last years, but they do look clumpy.
For a more delicate look that can be worn with dresses and skirts, choose a mule sandal with a thinner sole and dainty straps.
