Fashion 101: Fabulous flats

FABULOUS FLATS: With a flood of fabulous flat styles in stores - from the classic ballet, to the '80s brogue and the weekend loafer - there's no excuse not to give the stilettos a break.

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Flat shoes ruled the ages until Catherine de Medici instructed her cobbler to add inches to her wedding shoes in 1533.

High heels instantly became a symbol of status - that is, until the 1950s, when the loafer and ballet flat became chic once more thanks to style icons such as Audrey Hepburn.

Why you need it now

The dizzying heights of last season's heels have given way to a flat trend and when Rodarte teams up with Repetto to create ballet flats and brogues, something is abuzz. With a flood of fabulous flat styles in stores - from the classic ballet, to the '80s brogue and the weekend loafer - there's no excuse not to give the stilettos a break.

What to look for

The latest in flats is a retro-meets-modern statement. Marc Jacobs always seduces with a ballet flat. This season it has a flat, thick wooden sole, ankle tie and metallic finish. Nicholas Kirkwood has offered a feminine take on the masculine brogue, with a deconstructed shoe complete with cut-outs.

Ralph Lauren has done a slender take on the traditional with charming success (there are hints of Katharine Hepburn) and Miu Miu dazzles with a shimmering bowling-style number. Loafers add a preppy feel. Tod's is showcasing pastels and Gucci's tan loafer with horse-bit is a lasting country-esque classic.

Rubber soles keep you sure-footed so get them resoled if they are leather. Padded or cork linings buffer the foot from hard surfaces. Look for a firm fit as most will stretch. Always make sure your toes have room and heels are soft. Leather or suede breathe best and also equal fewer blisters so shell out the extra for them if you can.

Style to suit you

Petite feet, keep an eye out for styles that add length like ballet flats with a little toe cleavage, however avoid ankle straps that separate the leg from the foot. Otherwise, a clunky man-style looks super-sweet on you.

Wide feet, look for styles that support the foot while streamlining it. High sides keep the foot snug and looking lean. The more material on top of the shoe, the longer and leaner your foot will appear so consider brogues with punched patterns or fuller, stiffer ballet flats.

Big sizes, steer clear of elongated toes - go for a rounded toe instead. Dark, rich colours give the illusion of a smaller size and small accents such as bows, buckles and lace break up the expanse.

Thin feet, you can wear brogues and loafers well as they add substance. Beware when trying ballet flats as they always stretch so look for an ankle tie.

Where to shop

Gucci, Salvatore Ferragamo, Miu Miu and Bally for a luxe loafer.

Repetto or Chanel for iconic ballet flats. Also try French Sole and Country Road. Bloch does delicate ballets and brogues. Ralph Lauren and Church's have stylish brogues and check out Camper's quirky version.

Five more ways to wear

Weekender = FS with jeans, tee and oversized knit.

Workwear = FS with tailored pants, blouse and ladylike bag.

Urban flair = FS with leggings, long shirt, blazer and woollen scarf.

Day tripping = FS with full skirt, tight tank top, wide belt and cropped jacket.

Smart casual = FS with day dress under utility jacket.

- © Fairfax NZ News