5 Flat Shoe Trends I Won’t Wear in a Manhattan Summer and the 5 I Can Always Count On

      Living in NYC means you're always moving. Whether it's running errands, attending events, or brunching with friends, you're rarely at rest. This constant activity is what I love most about the city. However, without the right flats for walking, your day can become quite challenging. Besides sneakers, flats are the ultimate stylish shoes for navigating the city, but recently, I’ve felt stuck with certain styles. I’ve been relying on my usual flats, but I’ve grown weary of them and won’t wear them in the city this summer. Some reasons are functional, while others are purely superficial, and I believe that’s acceptable.

      The city is a wellspring of inspiration. I adore seeing fashionable women in their most effortless yet striking outfits. I always notice their footwear, which often consists of chic and comfortable flats that can handle a couple of blocks of walking. I've observed that the styles they are wearing recently differ greatly from my worn-out go-to flats. Watching these women has led me to decide to switch out some of my trends for those I’ve spotted. If you're in search of new go-to flats this summer for NYC or elsewhere, keep reading.

      5 Flat-Shoe Trends to Wear This Summer, According to Editors

      1. No: Mesh Flats Yes: Jelly Flats

      Style Notes: I believe the era for mesh flats has ended. To be honest, I've never been a fan. Aesthetically, they just don't appeal to me, though I see why others enjoy their playful vibe. However, I find jelly flats to be cute, fun, and stylish. They remind me of my childhood, and honestly, they haven't changed much since then. If we're going to show our toes while wearing closed-toe shoes, jelly flats are a chic option. Brands like Ancient Greek Sandals have been producing these for years, but their comeback with the same label feels complete.

      Shop Jelly Flats:

      - Ancient Greek Sandals

       - Jelly Saionara Flip Flops

       - A summer 2025 bestseller.

      

      - H&M

       - Plastic Mesh Ballet Flats

      

      - Free People

       - Ellery Flower Jelly Flats

       - These remind me of my school days in the best way.

      2. No: Round Toes Yes: Square Toes

      Style Notes: Square-toed shoes convey luxury, sophistication, and ease that I aim to embody while exploring the city. I seek that “cool girl” effect from my outfits, and I feel square-toed shoes will help achieve that. Although not a new trend, it refreshes an outfit with a small but significant detail. I find that a square toe peeking out from pants is much more chic than a round one. After I noticed Emma Chamberlain sporting a pair recently, I knew I needed to try them.

      Shop Square-Toed Shoes:

      - & Other Stories

       - Square-Toe Ballet Flats

       - This chocolaty brown shade is calling to me.

      

      - Vagabond Shoemakers

       - Delia

       - Simple? Yes. But very effective.

      

      - Whistles

       - Chocolate Mora Suede Square Toe Loafer

       - Square toes elevate loafers to a level of enhanced sophistication.

      3. No: Studded Flats Yes: Silver Flats

      Style Notes: While I appreciate elements of maximalism, I feel that studs are beginning to lose their appeal for me. For shine and extravagance, I’m gravitating toward silver flats to add interest to my summer outfits. The cool hue of silver allows the outfit to remain casual while letting the shoes shine. I love the idea of my shoes showcasing my personal style.

      Shop Silver Flats:

      - Reformation

       - Bethany Ballet Flat

       - A pair you'll want to wear in any season.

      

      - Le Monde Béryl

       - Luna Slipper / Silver Leather

       - I'm fond of this deeper metallic shade.

      

      - Knock out two trends in one.

      4. No: Logomania Flats Yes: Satin Flats

      Style Notes: I appreciate a logo from time to time, but I don't believe we need to rely on branding to create a stylish outfit. Lately, I find flats with texture, like satin, to be much more appealing. They function similarly to silver flats by adding an eye-catching element to an otherwise simple ensemble.

      Shop Satin Flats:

      - Charles & Keith

       - Emiko Satin Bow Mary Jane Flats

      

      - Miu Miu

       - Satin Ballet Flats

      5. No: Stretchy Flats Yes: Mule Flats

      Style Notes: I know this is a bold claim, especially for summer, but I’m simply over flats with that tight elastic band around the foot. While I doubt they’ll disappear anytime soon, you won’t see me wearing them often. Instead, I’ll be opting for mule flats for the remainder of the summer. They can elevate an outfit or keep it casual, depending on what you pair them with. Mule flats took