This post will show you the 10 best designer flat shoes to invest in.
IDK about you, but at heart, I’m a flat shoe girl. While heels are fabulous, flats are arguably more functional shoes. And that is worth investing in!
Fashion designers have given flats their stamp of approval this season, with ballet flats being one of the biggest shoe trends for Spring/Summer 2023, and balletcore being one of the trendiest aesthetics at the moment.
But regardless of the trend cycle, ballet flats have been a style staple for centuries and a favorite of both modern-day fashionistas and fashion icons of the past (think of Brigitte Bardot and Audrey Hepburn).
This timeless quality is why you won’t regret investing in a functional yet stylish pair of designer flats that you’ll be able to wear for years to come—with dressy and casual outfits alike.
So, whether you’re ready to splurge on a pair now or in the future, read on for the 10 best designer flat shoes that combine luxury, comfort, and expert craftsmanship.
Table of Contents
1. Miu Miu Satin Ballerina Flats
Specs:
- Price: $950
- Material: Satin exterior, leather insole and sole
- Size Range: 34-42
- Colors: Black, white, cocoa brown, red, pink, blue
As the season’s hottest designer ballerina flats, these Miu Miu satin ballerina flats are a surefire way to step up your shoe game.
Miu Miu has taken the classic ballerina flat—including satin construction and a bow—and given it a designer upgrade with a knit logo label across the elastic band for a distinctive designer look.
These sweet satin flats come in six different colors, ranging from a bold red hue to a feminine light pink shade, plus black and white options.
Since this design is so classic at its core, you’ll be able to wear these flats for years to come. Play up their femininity by wearing them with a girly skirt or dress, or go for a casual vibe by wearing them with loose-fitting denim; however you choose to style them, they will look amazing.
2. Chanel Quilted Ballerina Flats
Specs:
- Price: $975
- Material: Aged calfskin leather
- Colors: Black
It doesn’t get more classic than a pair of Chanel quilted ballerina flats. Chanel is known for their quilted leather designs (especially when it comes to handbags), and these flats feature the signature Chanel quilting, along with the iconic interlocking CC logo on the cap toe.
The cap toe adds to the classic look of these flats, as do the dainty bow details, which are a staple for ballet flats.
Chanel ballerina flats will never go out of style, so as long as you take care of this pair’s delicate calfskin leather, these are a solid investment that you can wear at any age.
3. Prada Patent Leather Ballerina Flats
Specs:
- Price: $1,090
- Material: Leather
- Size Range: 34.5-41
- Colors: Black
Shiny patent leather, a square toe, and a buckled ankle strap are all design details that set these Prada ballerina flats apart from the pack—along with their iconic Prada metal triangle logo (rather than a bow).
These Prada flats have a modern look thanks to their square-toe silhouette, while the ankle strap and super small 10mm heel keep them looking classic and ladylike. You’ll be able to wear these with many different outfits, from dressy looks to more casual looks with denim. The patent leather gives the flats some added flair while also being versatile.
BTW, did you know that the metal triangle logo first appeared in 1913 on trunks made by Mario Prada (Prada’s founder and original designer)? Such a cool bit of history that adds to the appeal of these chic flats.
4. Repetto Cendrillon Ballerina Flats
- Price: $410
- Material: Patent leather, lambskin leather, split calfskin leather, or metalized lambskin
- Size Range: 35 – 42
- Colors: Beige, red, black, deep forest green, brown, pink, turquoise, etc.
If these ballerina flats were good enough for style icon Brigitte Bardot, surely they are a winning pair!
Created at the request of Brigitte Bardot, the Cendrillon ballerina flats are the iconic product of Maison Repetto, a Parisian shoe brand that has been around since 1947. A “dance shoe for the city,” these ballerina flats are crafted by stitch-and-return, a special manufacturing process that ensures a flexible, comfortable shoe.
Best of all, these classic, elegant ballet flats come in countless colors and variations, including different kinds of leather, giving you a huge selection to choose from. Whether you’re looking for neutral, go-with-everything flats or bright, eye-catching flats, Repetto has all of your needs covered with their extensive collection.
5. Christian Louboutin Mamadrague Flats
Specs:
- Price: $695
- Material: Nappa leather
- Size Range: 36-42
- Colors: Silver, black
When you think of “red bottoms,” you probably think of a sky-high pair of Christian Louboutin pumps. Still, these Christian Louboutin red-bottomed flats are just as luxe—except way more comfortable and wearable for the everyday.
Speaking of comfort, these flats are made using the “Sachetto” assembly method, which results in increased flexibility and allows the shoe to hug the foot so that you’re getting a perfect fit.
These Louboutin ballet flats feature a square toe box, bow detail, and scalloped border for a unique touch. While they are also available in classic black, this metallic silver Napa leather option is especially on-trend for the spring season.
6. Gucci Horsebit Loafer Flats
Specs:
- Price: $920
- Material: Leather
- Size Range: 34-42
- Colors: Black, white
If ballerina flats aren’t your vibe, try a classic loafer flat instead. Gucci’s Horsebit Loafers are one of the brand’s signature styles that is instantly recognizable thanks to the gold metal horsebit detail.
The best part about these flats? They can be worn two ways: with the heel up as a loafer or the heel folded down as a slipper-style shoe. This versatile design feature allows you to slip these flats on at a moment’s notice, but you won’t be “hurting” the shoe by stepping on the heel when doing so.
The slender silhouette of these loafer flats also adds to their versatility; while ultra-chunky loafers are currently trending, this sleek, classic design is timeless.
7. Chloé Ballet Flats
Specs:
- Price: $550
- Material: Napa sheepskin leather
- Size Range: 4-12
- Colors: Black, blue, red, yellow, pink, gray, green
Chloé has reimagined the classic ballet flat with their version that features a scalloped edge for a unique look that showcases soft round lines and the Maison’s signature characteristic of “gentle femininity.”
These comfortable ballet flats with a cushioned footbed come in a wide array of colors that range from neutral to vibrant, all with signature scalloping that adds just the right amount of flair. Made for effortlessly stylish daywear, Chloé’s ballet flats will quickly become a staple shoe in your wardrobe.
8. Ganni Buckle Leather Ballerina Slingback Flats
Specs:
- Price: $375
- Material: Calfskin leather
- Size Range: 36-41
- Colors: Black
If you want to be on-trend for S/S 2023, you need Ganni’s buckle leather ballerina slingback flats. These shoes feature multiple major fashion trends for the season, including their buckle details, Mary Jane-inspired silhouette, and slingback style to create the ultimate fashion-forward flat.
The oversized buckles and silver metal detailing lend an edgy look to these flats, along with the pointed toe and shiny leather. These are far from your average ballerina flats—making them perfect for trendsetters.
9. Valentino Patent Rockstud Ballet Flats
- Price: $850
- Material: Patent leather
- Size Range: 4-12
- Colors: Black, light ivory, and beige
Ladylike with a bit of edge, Valentino’s patent leather rockstud ballet flats perfectly balance two contrasting aesthetics in one shoe.
Rockstud details are a signature of the Valentino brand, making these flats instantly recognizable—even without a prominent designer label. The studs add an edgy touch to these otherwise elegant pointy-toe flats, which come in three color variations, all done in shiny patent leather.
The pointed toe will help to give your legs an elongated look (even though you’re wearing flats rather than heels!), making this shoe a flattering choice for someone with a classy yet modern style.
10. Manolo Blahnik Hangisiflat Shoes
Specs:
- Price: $1,095
- Material: Silk and viscose blend
- Size Range: 34-42
- Colors: Black, white, gray, fuchsia, blue, green, yellow, etc.
Looking for a flat shoe that has a glam vibe? Look no further than Manolo Blahnik’s Hangisiflat shoes, a flat version of the iconic Hangisi pumps (a favorite of SATC’s Carrie Bradshaw). These flats are proof you don’t need a heel to look fancy!
Thanks to their satiny construction, oversized square crystal buckle, and sleek almond toe, these flats are as glam as it gets. You can just as easily wear these with a fancy dress as you could with denim—either way, they will make you sparkle.
What do you think of our best designer flat shoes round-up?
Which designer flats are your favorite? Would you wear these flats? Leave a comment and let us know!