1

Everlane

Oh, Everlane, how I adore thee.  Another brand that nails the flats game, Everlane makes two of my favorites—the Modern Loafer and the Modern Point.  Both styles are flawless, polished, wear-everywhere flats that look as perfect with a professional suit in a boardroom as they do with ripped jeans at brunch.  And I will admit that the Modern Loafer required a few wears to break in for me, but man was it worth it.  I absolutely love their design and versatility, especially their ability to look supremely professional when necessary.  Also, worth noting are two of Everlane’s newer, trendy styles that are already developing a devoted following (and were mentioned by many of you!)—their Square Toe Flat and Day Glove.

Size and Fit Tip: Runs a little narrow, expect to break these in after a few wears. If you’re wider in the foot size up a half size. 

2

Margaux

If you haven’t heard of Margaux shoes yet, you’re going to want to write this one down.  They’re a female-founded company that’s only a few years old and creates gorgeous, quality shoes with a singular focus on fit.  If you can’t seem to find shoes that fit well, have a particularly wide or narrow foot, or even struggle with one foot that’s slightly larger than the other, this is the brand to check out.  Their extended size range, multiple widths, and made-to-measure sizing (without made-to-measure price tags!) means no more wincing your way through the work day. 

Also, you can order any of their über popular shoes directly from their site, or order a Fitting Kit to determine your exact shoe size if you’d like to go the made-to-measure route—it’s only $15 and is applied to your order if you make a purchase!  Absolutely gorgeous designs at an affordable price point and I haven’t even mentioned the foam padding hidden in every sole yet…

Size and Fit Tip: Comes in standard full and half sizes as well as narrow, medium and wide foot widths.  Both the Demi and Pointe styles run true to size.

3

Nicholas Kirkwood Beya Loafers

Easily one of my all-time favorite shoes.  Across the board, I’m probably most fond of pointed-toe silhouettes because they seem to be easiest to dress up (or down) and the pointed toe creates a leg-lengthening effect  that is universally flattering.  Nicholas Kirkwood’s Beya loafers are special for many reasons, but I love how they manage to maintain a super classic pointed toe appearance while still packing a major design-driven punch.  Perhaps this is due to special touches like the gold detailing at the heel (swoon). Coming in a million colors, the leather is thick and luxurious, holding up exceptionally well over time, while also maintaining a softness that makes them immediately comfortable.  Witchcraft, I tell you.  Man, do I love this shoe.

Size and Fit Tip: Runs small and narrow, order a full size up.

4

Sam Edelman Felicia

Bye Hi, Felicia! (I’m sorry I had to, DON’T HATE ME.) If you’re looking for a classic, quality ballet flat at an affordable price, don’t sleep on the Sam Edelman Felicia flat.  This is your timeless throw-on-and-go flat that won’t make you feel underdressed and will never go out of style.  So, so many of you submitted this pair as your ultimate favorite and the roughly 1.8K 5-star Nordstrom reviews don’t seem disagree.

Size and Fit Tip: Fits true to size. 

5

Tory Burch Flats

Perhaps you’ve heard of them? Seriously, these now iconic flats are perfectly packable and come in a thousand or so colors so whatever your style, you’re all set. They’re so popular that I’ve been in airports before where I wondered if they were literally giving them away and I missed the kiosk.  If the oversized logo medallion of the classic Reva style isn’t for you, don’t overlook the brand’s more subtle offerings, like these chic cap-toe pointed-toe flats.

Size and Fit Tip: Fits true to size. 

6

Chanel Ballerinas

Hail to the chief.  You just can’t beat the craftsmanship or comfort of these iconic ballet flats.  What’s there to talk about? You’ll wear these beauties to your grave.

Size and Fit Tip: Runs small, order a half size to a full size up.

7

M.Gemi

When it comes to killer fan-favorite flats, M. Gemi doesn’t mess around.  They have several gorgeous flat styles with a cult following, namely the Stellato, the Fortuna and the Felize.  The first two are classic pointed-toe options and the third is a great loafer/driving moccasin style—you know, the style that makes you feel like you’re on a very fancy yacht even though you’re most likely in a 3pm marketing meeting. Super high quality and perfect for the office without feeling too stuffy, M. Gemi is always a really solid choice in the world of flats.

Size and Fit Tip: Fits true to size. 

8

Gucci Loafers

When it comes to the classic bit loafer, these are the gold standard. There are few flats more iconic or (comfortable) than this pair from Gucci. Not that I play favorites with my shoes (I love them all equally, or that’s at least what I tell them), but these have been the most heavily-worn flat in my closet for the last several years.  I’m a particular fan of the Brixton style that can be worn as a mule or a loafer.  Love me a good multi-tasker.

Size and Fit Tip: Fits true to size to slightly large.  Personally, I ordered half a size down.

9

Sam Edelman Loraine Loafers

If you want to achieve the look of the iconic Gucci loafer without the price tag, this is your ticket.  With endless color and print options, the Sam Edelman Loraine Loafers are the perfect shoe for when you need something polished and classic but feel like maybe the sight of your heels will make you cry.

Size and Fit Tip: Fits true to size. 

10

Ferragamo Varina

Let the Italian icons continue! The Ferragamo Varina is more than a shoe, it’s an attitude/mood/lifestyle. The iconic grosgrain bow, the shiny gold placard, the perfect ballet silhouette, the instantaneous comfort? If you need some flats that feel fancy and are particularly good at dressing up or down, this is the splurge-worthy pair for you.

Size and Fit Tip: Runs small, order a full size up.

11

J. Crew

When it comes to flats, J. Crew has long-been a trusted resource.  Their pointed-toe flat and ballet options (currently sold out) are mainstays in any list of trusted footwear. I think these might’ve been one of my first post-college purchases when I was first developing a work wardrobe.  Classic, high quality, great price point.  Done.

Size and Fit Tip: Runs small, but will stretch a little, order a half size up.

12

Rothy’s

Remember when I said I was only talking about classic leather flats above?  Well, this is the one exception, promise.  I almost didn’t include this pair on the list because I wanted to limit it just to the kinds of leather flats that you can more easily dress up or down.  However, I was blown away by the hundreds (literally) of you who submitted this woven shoe as your ultimate can’t-live-without flat on instastories.  While I personally tend to gravitate toward a style with a bit more “on the clock” polish to them than this pair, I think Rothy’s are fantastic if you’re commuting, traveling or working in a more casual environment.  

Honestly, the number of rave reviews that you sent in on Rothy’s fully convinced me to purchase.  Also, I couldn’t believe how incredibly chic and polished the Rothy’s The Point style is.  Sustainable, no break-in period, YOU CAN WASH THEM IN YOUR WASHING MACHINE, and unmatched comfort?  I’m in.

Size and Fit Tip: Runs small with no stretch, order a half size up.

13

Birdies Starling Slipper

Can we please hear it for slippers that masquerade as shoes? Birdies flats are an indulgence to be enjoyed south of your ankles both in and out of the home. Neutral but not boring, these are the comfiest flats around that are also simultaneously outfit-polishing. The secret agent of flat footwear, if you will.

Size and Fit Tip: Fits true to size. These ones may feel a little snug at first, but will mold to your feet over time.

That’s it!  Any favorites that I missed?  If you’d like to peruse by style, below I’ve categorized all of the aforementioned flats by pointy-toe, ballet and loafer.  Happy shopping!  Your feet are excited.