Wait—I've just noticed that the most stylish flat shoes share this particular detail.

      When you find yourself in a style slump—possibly due to overusing certain outfits that don’t excite you anymore, or feeling pressured to refresh your wardrobe for the new season—the best way to escape this monotony is to return to the fundamentals. This is what the current trend of lace-up flats highlights.

      What Is the Lace-Up Flats Shoe Trend? After Miu Miu brought ballet flats back into the spotlight—an arguably quieter Y2K style—in 2022, flat shoes have maintained their prominence. This trend includes everything from the craze surrounding trainers like the Wales Bonner X Adidas Samba and Cecilie Bahnsen X Asics collaborations, to The Row-approved slipper-shoe trend, and even the rise of colorful jelly sandals, elevated flip-flops, and fisherman styles. Among the most notable styles capturing my interest are lace-up flats. Leading luxury brands and stylish high-street options are reimagining popular shapes with various tie-up details. The finest lace-up flats make the most out of unexpected yet elegant methods. For example, Chloé’s Ghillies flat, inspired by a traditional Celtic dance shoe.

      As showcased in Chloé’s spring/summer 2025 collection, this leather silhouette resembles a moccasin—not far off from the patent style seen in Chanel’s Resort 2025 show—but includes studded grommets that let a piece of string lace over the top of the foot and wrap around the ankle. Notably, the trim of this flat narrows near the front, revealing a subtle hint of toe cleavage beneath the cord. When styled with long bloomers or a flowing boho-chic lace romper, the finest lace-up flats add a beautiful, timeless touch to outfits. If you adore this summer’s rope accessory trend, lace-up flats embody this theme in a refined and understated way, creating a blend of classic and contemporary styles. Similar to polished boat shoes and creative Mary-Jane-sneaker hybrids, the best lace-up flats can provide a refreshing vibe to any outfit in your wardrobe. Incorporating this braided aspect into conventional styles serves as a kind of style reset when inspiration is lacking, proving that classic styling methods like these are always reliable. Get ready to step out in style and discover the top lace-up flats below.

      The 6 Best Lace-Up Flat Shoes

      1. Ballet Flats

      Style Notes: Just when you think all possibilities for ballet flats have been exhausted, stylish lace-up options emerge. The silhouette evokes the lovely ribbons of pointe shoes, but is much more practical for everyday wear.

      Shop the Trend:

      - Chloé Ghillies Suede Flats: Refresh your baby-pink ballet slippers with these suede, lace-up designs from Chloé.

      - & Other Stories Lace-Up Ballet Flats: Woven footwear screams summer, but can easily transition into cooler months when paired with structured staples like jeans or a leather jacket.

      - ZARA Suede Tie Slingback Shoes: Suede ballet flats have been notable since Gucci's Resort 2025 show, but lace-up variations bring innovative flair.

      - MANGO Leather Ballet Flats With Crossed Straps: If you admire Chloé's design but seek a budget-friendly option, this Mango pair is an excellent choice.

      2. Loafers

      Style Notes: From chunkier lug-sole styles to the classic penny versions preferred by minimalists like Zoë Kravitz, loafers maintain their prominence among elegant, streamlined wardrobes. While lace-up features aren't often seen in this style, small bows or tie details are quickly gaining popularity.

      Shop the Trend:

      - AEYDE Jasper Suede Loafers: These have a slightly worn-in look, allowing for easy wear and maintenance.

      - EMME PARSONS Parker Leather Loafers: Even subtle lace-ups like this bow motif significantly enhance a classic style.

      - Jimmy Choo Manon Leather Moccasins: The woven lace along the trim and the fringe detail are both appealing features.

      3. Sandals

      Style Notes: Sandals are typically adorned with neat buckles, but for 2025, many fashion insiders are replacing this subtle fastening with something bolder. This styling trick is especially helpful for those under 5'3", as it draws the eye downwards and elongates the figure without needing heels.

      Shop the Trend:

      - AQUAZZURA Oaxaca Knotted Leather Sandals

      - ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS Sfendoni Sandals: While strappy sandals may bring back memories of Gladiator styles, this refined pair offers an elegant take on the trend.

      - ZARA Limited Edition Flat Leather Strappy Sandals

      - A.EMERY Heidi Snake-Effect Leather Sandals: Snake print is tasteful and underrated, and A.Emery brings it into sandal form beautifully.

      4. Sneakerinas

      Style Notes: From Broadway Market to Brooklyn, those who prefer to break the trend cycle are turning