Heels are always a stylish option when it comes to footwear, but sometimes you just need something more comfortable! Whether you are running from meeting to meeting, or heading out for an evening of dancing, flats are your perfect match.
Traditionally flats may have been relegated to daytime wear, but now, with so many styles and stores to choose from, flats are a fashion forward option any time of day. Lauren Rae Levy, a stylist and the CEO and founder of the LRL Group, loves incorporating flats into any type of look. “Let me say that I am a huge fan of flats, not only in the summer, but year-round,” Levy says. “For summer styles, some of my go-to looks include rocking sneakers with a cute day dress, flat sandals with a maxi, and ballet flats with shorts or jeans.”
Here are some of summer’s best options, perfect for any price point.
1. Mules
Dolce Vita Aveline Crocheted Mule
A bit of a splurge, these slip-on mules are the perfect shoe to throw on when you need to be somewhere in a flash. The crocheted material and natural color are perfect for an easy summer vibe.
Qupid Metallic Loafer Mules from Charlotte Russe
If you typically stay away from metallics, a rose gold shoe is a great way to slowly embrace the trend.
2. Sandals
Metallic Gingham Platform Sandals from Charlotte Russe
Platforms are also a great alternative to heels, without sacrificing the height boost. Savannah Seymour, a sophomore at Eastern Florida State, loves flats, and thinks these platforms are the perfect statement shoe for summer. “Metallic platform flats are a cute festival-vibe look that gives your outfit an extra pop, which is great since a lot of people think of heels when they think statement shoes,” she says.
Mayari Birko-Flor Nubuck from Birkenstock
Although they are on the more expensive side, Birkenstocks are a great investment. Morgan Pitts, a fashion blogger and eCommerce Associate with Gucci, loves Birkenstocks because of their “varying price points, colors, and styles.” They offer arch support, ensuring that your feet will be comfortable all day long.
madden NYC Breckk Women’s Footbed Sandals from Kohl’s
If you love the look of Birkenstocks but aren’t ready to spend big bucks, these Birk-like sandals from Kohl’s are a budget friendly option. As comfortable as the real thing, these sandals come in a variety of patterns and materials, including floral print and chunky glitter.
Maris Flat D’Orsay Sandals from Nine West
Sandals are a staple of summer fashion, and these open-toed shoes are the perfect sandal/flat combo. Bonus: they come in a variety of neutrals and bold prints so everyone can find their perfect match.
3. Espadrilles
TOMS Blue Slub Chambray Women’s Deconstructed Alpargatas
These chambray shoes are perfect for a BBQ or other summer adventure. They are also vegan, making them environmentally friendly!
A New Day Devina Hybrid Slip On Loafer
Slip-on loafers are a hot summer trend. This pair from Target also incorporates elements of the classic summer espadrille, making them comfortable and seasonally appropriate, too.
Related: 8 Ways To Look More Stylish In 2018
4. Ballet Flats
Women’s dv Flaire Sling Back Ballet Flats at Target
Target is one of the best resources for the budget-conscious fashionista, and their shoe department is one their best kept secrets! Makena Gera, a freshman at Marist College, loves shoes from brands like dv and A New Day.
“They’re so cute for summer, especially in fun colors like this light lavender,” says Makena.
Bamboo Lace-Up Ballet Flats from Charlotte Russe
These flats in neutral color are a great way to add a high-fashion detail to an internship outfit. They can also be dressed down for fun weekend activities.
Related: 3 Fashion Brands To Watch In 2018, Because Your Wardrobe Needs A Refresh
5. Loafers and Mary Janes
Wildgirls Loafers from Nine West
These flats have just the tiniest bit of a heel to boost your height and your confidence. They also embrace three of today’s hottest trends: menswear, glitter and bold graphics.
Leather Mary Jane Flat from Urban Outfitters
You can’t go wrong with a classic leather Mary Jane. These shoes are also a major steal (only $19!) so you can get them in a bunch of colors.
BONUS: Sneakers!
Hairy Suede Slip-Ons from Vans
Nowadays, sneakers can be dressed up or down. Levy likes this suede pair from Vans! “They come with me everywhere,” she says.
With so many fashionable flats, you’ll want to put your heels away for good!