The quest for the perfect flat

Sometimes, only a flat shoe will do. Whether you’re going to be on your feet all day and want to be comfortable, are very tall and don’t much fancy being six foot six in heels, are going to a ‘smart/casual’ event or just don’t fancy risking bunions from wearing six inch heels all day every day. Flat shoes can often be a necessity. So why is it so difficult to find the perfect, multi-event-suitable flat shoe on the high street?

There are several issues I have come across whilst looking for the perfect flat shoe:

1. They instantly look casual…or they instantly look cheap.

2. For some reason, apparently a flat shoe needs a ton of glitter or diamantes thrown at it.

3. There’s one flat shoe for every ten pairs of heels.

4. They’re built like boats, meaning they gape just about everywhere.

Luckily, I have been on a mission to find the perfect flat shoe for a series of occasions, and here are my top five:

The dressed down kind

For the ultimate in daytime comfort you simply can’t beat a pair of Converse. I have a rainbow of colours in my wardrobe, but if you’re looking for the ultimate shoe to run around town in, then these black low tops are the perfect choice. Low tops are less casual than the more ‘sporty’ hi-tops, and the monochrome will go with just about everything.

Converse £44.99 Office

The day to night kind

Black renders these flats smart enough to wear to work, but the striking gold bar around the ankle and the heel makes these jazzy enough to wear to a bar on a hot date. The cut out sides again makes these that bit more evening.

£29.99 Zara

The cutesy frock kind

To accompany a chintzy summer frock for a barbecue, to wear to a wedding or just a with daytime shift dress, you can’t beat the classic ballet pump. This nude tone goes with everything and the simple bow adds a cute feel without being childish. A classic ballet pump is the height of sophistication and will add a touch of class to any ensemble.

Ballet pump  £120 French Sole at John Lewis

The androgynous kind

If being ultra-feminine isn’t your bag, then Dr Martens have an array of flat shoes which are super comfy and a toned down version of their infamous boots. From Mary-Jane styles to brogues, Dr Martens add an unusual touch to a classic flat shoe. I adore these cut out brogues and have definitely added them to my wish list. With a pair of frilly ankle socks, denim shorts and an oversized shirt, these would complete any chilled summer outfit.

£125 Dr Martens

The everything in between kind

A snip at £29, the pointed toe makes these flats that bit smarter and that bit more special than your bog standard ballerina pump. Sumptuous suede means that they look instantly more expensive, and the cute bow just completes these into the perfect pump.

£29 Oasis

Although a challenge to find, the perfect flats are out there. I maintain that there should be a wider variety of styles, just like you have with heels, but I think finding one or two ideal pairs will see you through.

By Jessica Moffatt-Owen