Recently in Flats Category

Now that we have discussed the importance of a basic black pump and a ballet flat, it’s time to discuss another important facet of building a shoe wardrobe: the evening shoe. I really think it's a good idea to have at least one or two timeless evening shoe options. First of all, if you have an event come up, it's nice to already own a shoe that works with most everything, so you can just focus on buying a dress. In addition, a beautiful evening shoe can transform a plain little black dress into a much dressier outfit. So if you're in a jam with a last-minute event, you can toss on that LBD and gorgeous pair of satin sandals, and you're all set.

In my mind, nothing can ruin a beautiful evening look, like putting on a pair of inappropriate shoes with an evening gown. And when I say inappropriate, I’m thinking of pairing something like a delicate chiffon gown with a a pair of office-appropriate black pumps or a chunky platform sandal. Perfectly wearable in other scenarios, but they just do not work with a gown. 

Another issue with evening sandals is comfort. I have ended so many evenings with aching, blistered feet. Granted any 5-inch shoe is going to be somewhat uncomfortable if you’re standing in them all night, but make sure any shoes you pick are somewhat tolerable. For example, if you mainly wear flats, don’t pick evening shoes with 4- to 5-inch heels. A heel of 2 or 3 inches is just fine.
 
It is impossible to pick a shoe that is going to work with any evening dress you might one day wear, but stick to something as neutral as possible like black, silver or gold. I adore evening shoes in vibrant reds or turquoise, but if you’re just building your shoe wardrobe and want to maximize your shoe investment, go for something neutral that you can get maximum wear out of. Later on you can add in some more unique choices. It is also nice to have a sandal and pump to choose from.
 
Here are some of my favorite choices availabe online now. I’ve also included some flats for those times when you’re say pregnant or have a sprained ankle (been there, done that).
 
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 Christian Louboutin Very Croise Sandal $775 Net-a-Porter
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Desirable: Miu Miu Lightening Bolt Boots

I am in love again! Yes...again...like everytime I see a fabulous pair of shoes! Well these boots are so sexy and elegant. They are a must have for a fashion foward fall look. I will pair them with skinny jeans and a silk blouse, or with a belted black dress.

miu-miu-lightening-bolt-heel-boots-685-net.jpgMiu Miu Lightening Bolt Boots $685 Net-a-Porter

Affordable: Melissa Happy Flat

These flat are not only chic, but they are eco friendly, as well. The Brazilian brand Melissa uses melflex recycleble plastic to make these shoes, and the bow is removable according to our mood. What else to make a girl happy?

Melissa-happy-flats-60.jpgMelissa Happy Flats $60 Tobi

Repulsive: Donald J Pliner Collection Coral Ankle Boots

I couldn't decide if these shoes would make it to the repulsive category, but after giving it a second thought, I have to admit that I find them hideous! I don't know if it is because they shine so much or because they are so pointy that they almost almost hurt my eyes? But I seriously find them absolutely repulsive.

donald-J-pliner-collection-ankle-boot-189-05-neiman.jpgDonald J Pliner Coral Ankle Boot $450 Neiman Marcus

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Aldo is a great store for bargain shopping! They always have a selection of basic styles in multiple colors as well as trendy styles. Here are a few of my favorites:

Aldo Fritarr Pump
Mary-Janes are very trendy right now. The hidden platform in these is great, and I love the gray. Perfect for wearing with tights in a dressy or casual situation.
 
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Aldo Fritarr Pump $100 Aldo
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 Bored of black and brown leather boots? Well, fear not because this Fall their are plenty of other colors to choose from.  I love all the slate grays and taupes we are seeing, like this Chloe boot, for example. The leg detail is stellar and although they are considered "flat," they have a little lift in the heel for height (if you need it... lord knows at 5'5" I enjoy the extra 2 inches!) I would pair these with leggings, 'old faithful,' or a cute thigh grazing sweater dress.

 

Chloe Knee High Boot $1150 Madison

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After a week of insane running around during Fashion Week, my feet and ankles were so swollen from standing and walking on 100mm heels from day to night that I had to wear flats. These super cute Lanvin ballet flat are my feet's heroes! Not only are they super comfortable, but they come in a wide array of colors and materials, which are all super fashionable. I bought them in purple patent leather and navy blue leather, and have worn them all the time.

These shoes are easy to pair with anything from jeans to dresses, and shorts to skirts. They are a must have for fall or any other season. And, yes they are expensive, but the truth is they are timeless shoes that will remain in style for a long time and can be worn any season with tights or barefoot.

Lanvin Patent Ballet Flat $500 Barneys

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I believe this is the male counterpart to the sandal I reviewed yesterday but I'm not completely sure... For one thing, Marc Jacobs' shows have both male and female models walking... not to mention, this leg is so skinny it could be a woman!  Eat something and put on a better pair of shoes because these are hideous!!

Marc Jacobs Spring 2009

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So overall, I was impressed with the laid back, hipster/beach bum kind of style Marc Jacobs presented for Spring. I also happened to find a shoe from the runway that I quite liked.  Not sure how well these sandals would translate into real life, but I'm definitely digging them.  I could see them with a long boho skirt, a colorful mini, high waisted shorts... even with a pair of cuttoffs.

 

Marc Jacobs Spring 2009

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After seeing the fabulous pumps from our latest giveaway, I had to check out all of the shoes on daniblack.com, and I am in love with these Mimosa flats. They are just gorgeous. I love the red satin, and the big flower. So pretty. I can totally see them with a cute skirt and sweater-set or even a pair of capris. They are satin so I wouldn’t throw them on with a laid-back casual outfit, but a slightly more dressy casual outfit works, if that makes sense! They are also a great option for a formal event if you simply can’t wear heels. And the price is fabulous! 

 
Daniblack Mimosa Flat $125 daniblack
 
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When I was younger, I would wear heels for any occasion, no matter what I was doing or how long I would be walking, standing or shopping! As I’ve gotten older and have a child, I’ve come to realize I can’t wear 5-inch heels all the time, even though I love them dearly! And while I am sensible enough to know when to lose the 5-inch stilettos, I wouldn’t be caught dead wearing many of the shoes considered “comfortable” by many people! I don’t ever wear traditional athletic shoes unless exercising, but there are plenty of great twists on traditional sneakers out there from brands like Puma, Diesel, Rocket Dog, Privo and Converse.

Converse One Star Skimmer
I love all shoes and am happy to search through any shoe department whether it be Barneys or Target! I picked up these Converse skimmers a few weeks ago, and I have worn them a million times since! They are very comfortable and look super cute with jeans or shorts. And the best part is the price!
 
repinkconverseskimmers.jpgConverse One Star Skimmer On sale for $20.99 Target
 
Puma Future Cat Low P US
I love Puma, and buy the brand for myself, husband and toddler! I love these pink sneakers. Yes, they are technically a sneaker, but I love the suede pink and they look better than a typical athletic shoe, in my mind at least!
 
repuma94zappos.jpgPuma Future Cat Low P US $94 Zappos
 
Diesel Note Ballet Flat
Diesel is another brand I love (and the name of my new puppy!). I think these ballet flats are really cute, and I bet you could walk in them all day with no discomfort!
 
rediesel84zappos.jpgDiesel Note Ballet Flat $84 Zappos
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Calvin Klein Passion Pumps
Purple and Bordeaux are definitely the colors of fall for this upcoming season! I really like these Bordeaux patent pumps. They are perfect for the office! I’d probably pair them with a black and white tweed skirt and black tights.
 
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Calvin Klein Passion Pumps $98 Zappos
 
Report Origami Flats
I think these black and bone flats are so cute! I love the black toe cap and stitching detail on the bone leather. These are great everyday running-errands flats with shorts or jeans, but they’d also be cute with a black skirt and tights.
 
reportorigami74zappos.jpgReport Origami $74 Zappos
 
Circa Joan & David Pretty Boot
I love these Circa Joan & David suede boots for fall. The gray suede is very understated, and the slouchy construction and ankle tie are really pretty. The heel is not ridiculously high at 3 ½ inches, and they do feature a ½-inch hidden platform. You’re going to wear boots like this with everything, season to season. And the best part is they are on sale!
 
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Circa Joan & David Pretty Boot Orig. $249; On sale for $166 Nordstrom 
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