5 Flat Shoe Trends I'll Avoid This Manhattan Summer, and the 5 I Can't Do Without
Living in NYC means you’re always on the move—whether it’s running errands, attending events, or catching up with friends for brunch, there’s hardly a moment of stillness. That’s what I love most about this city. However, if you don’t have the right flats for walking around, your day can quickly turn difficult. Beyond sneakers, flats are essential for getting around the city, yet I’ve recently hit a snag with certain styles. I’ve been wearing my favorite flats, but I’m now tired of them and have decided not to wear them in the city this summer. Some reasons relate to practicality, while others are purely superficial, and I believe that’s perfectly fine.
The city is a wellspring of inspiration. I enjoy seeing stylish women stepping out in their most effortlessly chic outfits. I always notice their shoes, which are often chic flats that provide comfort for walking several blocks. I’ve also observed that the styles they are wearing are quite different from my worn-out go-to flats. After seeing these women, I’ve decided to swap some of my trends for those I’ve observed around me. Continue reading if you’re looking for fresh flats to wear this summer in NYC or elsewhere.
NO: Mesh Flats
YES: Jelly Flats
I believe the trend for mesh flats is ending. Honestly, I’ve never been a fan—they just don’t appeal to me visually, though I can see their playful charm. What I find adorable, fun, and stylish are jelly flats. They remind me of my childhood, and I must say, not much has changed. If we’re going to expose our toes in closed-toe shoes, jelly flats are a stylish option. Brands like Melissa have been creating these for years, and their resurgence feels full circle.
Melissa
Possession Jelly Fisherman Sandals
Ancient Greek Sandals
Iro Jelly Flats
COACH
Jelly PVC Logo Sandals
COS
Cut-Out Jelly Ballet Flats
Sam Edelman
Michaela Jelly Flats
NO: Round-Toed
YES: Square-Toed
Squared-toe shoes exude luxury, sophistication, and an ease that I aspire to embody while navigating the city. I want the “she’s so cool” vibe with my outfits, and I believe square-toed shoes can help me achieve that. This isn’t a completely new trend, but it brings a fresh touch with such a subtle detail. I think a square toe peeking out from pant hems looks far more chic than a round one. After seeing Emma Chamberlain in a pair not long ago, I knew I had to try them.
Jeffrey Campbell
Fathom Flats
Toteme
Suede Ballet Flats
Mansur Gavriel
Square Toe Ballerina Flats
COS
Square-Toe Ballet Flats
Madewell
The Ophelia Slingback Flats
NO: Studded Flats
YES: Silver Flats
While I appreciate elements of maximalism, I’m feeling done with studs. For shine and glamour, I’m favoring silver flats to make my summer outfits more captivating. The cool tone of silver allows an outfit to feel casual and relaxed, placing the shoes in the spotlight. I love the idea of letting my footwear express my personal style.
Shopbop
Reformation Bethany Ballet Flats
Schutz
Arissa Ballet Flats
LE MONDE BERYL
Metallic Leather Mary Jane Flats
Reformation
Ulla Ballet Flats
NO: Logomania Flats
YES: Satin Flats
I don’t mind the occasional logo, but I don’t think we need to rely on branding to create a stylish look. Recently, I’ve found satin flats with texture to be much more appealing than those with logos. Similar to silver flats, they introduce an eye-catching detail to an otherwise simple outfit. Balenciaga’s former creative director recently debuted a collaboration with Puma that included satin sneakerinas, which have captured my imagination repeatedly.
Everlane
The Day Buckle Mary Jane
Balenciaga X Puma
Speedcat Ballet Sneakers
Chloé
Polly Satin Mary Janes
Toteme
Satin Ballet Flats
NO: Stretchy Flats
YES: Mule Flats
I know this is a bold statement for summer, but honestly, I’m just over flats with that tight elastic around the foot. Though I doubt they will disappear anytime soon, you won’t see me wearing them frequently. Instead, I will be donning mule flats for the rest of the summer. They can elevate an outfit, whether dressy or casual, depending on what else I’m wearing. Mule flats made a strong appearance on the F/W 25 runways of Prada, Miu Miu, and Gucci, sparking a summer trend I’m eager to embrace.
Miu Miu
Logo Slipper Mules
MANGO
Leather Slingback Shoes
Everlane
The Ballet Mules
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There are trends that rise and fade, but these are the styles I plan to embrace for the remainder of the summer in the city. Find them here.