Almost all women own at least one pair of heels. They are pretty, they make you look taller, they boost your posture and confidence, and they make your legs look really toned. But let’s be honest with ourselves; they aren’t the most comfortable. It also comes with pretty alarming side effects — they are destructive to your feet and spine, just to name a few. Chronic heel wearers are known to complain about heel aches and strains to the lower back and leg muscles, amongst many other pains. And let’s not forget blisters that bite at us throughout the day.
That’s where flats come in. Flats are awesome because they are comfortable, effortless to wear, and are suitable for just about any ensemble. But we’re not espousing the regular (dare we say, boring?) designs that you can get just about anywhere. We’re talking about unique offerings, from crochet to weaves to ballet flats, that add a touch of flair and sass to your overall style so you can be comfy and still win the sartorial game at work. Time to trade in your high heels for these supremely wearable and stylish flats.
We have to admit, this pair of J’adior Slingback Ballerina flats captures a certain je ne sais quoi appeal. A great example of the House’s craftsmanship, here, the design sees a unique two-tone embroidered cotton ‘J’ADIOR’ ribbon along with an elegant bow that lends this particular silhouette a touch of elegance. We like how you can easily match it with a sexy bodycon dress.
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Japanese retailer, Uniqlo is well-known for offering some of the best high-quality casual wear pieces. From bottoms to tops, as well as their sportswear range, you’ll probably find everything you need under one roof at Uniqlo.
But more importantly, what most people don’t know is that Uniqlo also has its own selection of footwear for you to choose from as well. Take, for instance, the brand’s Comfeel Touch Thong Sandals. Featuring a contoured insole for greater comfort, the sandals boast a fuss-free design that’s super wearable and stylish. Wear it for brunch dates or even for your next picnic with your boo.
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Add some zest to your outfit with this unique pair from Love, Bonito. Sporting a fun cutout design, the Cori Cut Out Sandals are designed with elastic back straps so that it doesn’t slip or slide. Your next go-to weekend sandals, this pair goes well with your favourite sundress or even with a simple pair of shorts and a white tee.
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Besides the versatile nude hue, a pair of strappy sandals can do you no wrong. Take, for instance, this pair by Sunday Staples that also comes with a trendy square-toe silhouette. Finish with jeans on dress-down Fridays.
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For those who love the sleek sensibilities of clogs, here’s a mule version to help you get out of the door quicker. Wear it as you would with any clogs you own or pair it with a shirt and pencil skirt.
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A simple pair of flats is easily upgraded by Charles & Keith with the crochet detailing and the black and white contrast. Pair this with a loose-fitting shirt and slip skirt.
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This Pedro design is another understated pair of flats done well with just a simple upgrade – a gold detailing on the toe loop. Match the clean lines with a sleek suit.
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Prefer a pair that’s a little less chunky? Then this pair of buckled mules would be perfect for you. It has a pointed tip to elongate your feet, so you can show off your gams with a midi-length dress, and not to mention, it also comes with a faux fur insole that adds some texture to your look.
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Sometimes, less is more. And in the case of these H&M slip-ons, less is indeed more with its sleek lines and pointed toe design. The nude colour will also match anything you pair it with.
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This coveted pair by Melissa is well-loved for good reason. Here, the pair of Melissa Jean + Jason Wu VII is said to be one of the brand’s bestsellers, thanks to its unique and versatile design that’s perfect for days when you’re out running errands or even when you’re heading back to the office. With comfort being their top priority, this pair is also really comfortable so you can wear it for long hours. Pair this with your favourite LBD for a monochromatic finish.
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Reminiscent of Bottega Veneta’s woven flats, these Spur flats add a fun pop of colour. We recommend pairing with an all-white dress for a summery, ethereal look or to jazz up a floral summer dress.
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Whether you love colours or want to make an impression at an important meeting, these statement red Pazzion Diamante Bow Pointed Toe flats
are here for you. Finish with a crisp shirt and wide-legged pants.
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Is preppy chic your style? Then you have to own a pair of penny loafers like these Lucca Vudors. They are made with a pressure-relieving sole and soft leather to ensure comfort. Match the look with a French-tucked shirt and cigarette trousers.
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Toufie is another homegrown label that prides itself on creating comfortable, stylish shoes for women. These ballerina flats with bow detail is an example, coming in a girly dusty pink hue. Finish the outfit with a jumpsuit and hoop earrings.
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Whether it is the office, a romantic date or dinner with the in-laws, slip on this pair of clean white Love, Bonito strappy sandals. It is understated and won’t compete with anything you wear above, such as a maxi dress.
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Singaporean fashion label Bern was created with the intention to produce footwear that has both comfort and quality. This pair of ballet flats look like it is made with tweed but it is actually constructed using eco-friendly, breathable and waterproof microfiber leather with fabric. Dress it up with a blouse and asymmetric skirt.
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This Anothersole pair is made for days where you can’t be bothered with styling. Its minimalist design and colour palette makes it an easy pair to slip on with anything, from dresses to tops and bottoms. It is also available in three other neutral hues – white, black and dove grey.
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From local label The Tui Collection, this black and gold strappy pair is for days where you want to feel like you’re by the beaches of Santorini or Bali instead of the office. So pair it with your favourite (work-appropriate) tropical vacay outfit and transport your mind.
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Text by: Ho Guo Xiong/HerWorld