Whether you need to update your footwear repertoire or looking to revamp your look for in-person interviews, flats combine elegance and versatility for the professional woman. However, finding the perfect balance between comfort and fashion when shopping for professional attire can be tricky.
Flats typically offer the best of both worlds: style and comfort. But there are certain features to consider when selecting the right pair for all-day wear. After scrolling through hundreds of Amazon reviews, we found the top-rated flats that will keep your feet grounded and ready to tackle your workload.
Also, we asked our editors for their favorite picks that provide great traction, support and overall elegance.
Can flats be worn every day? | Materials and features to look for | Editor-approved flats | Shopper-approved flats | How we chose | Meet the experts
Can flats be worn every day?
According to foot doctor Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, flats can be worn depending on the activity you have going on. "If you are walking and standing all day then flats every day are probably not a good choice," she says.
"I would vary my shoe choices or at least switch them up as the day goes on, or a few times a week. For example, you can wear your sneakers to work which usually requires the most walking and then switch to supportive flats during the day and switch back when you leave the office," suggests Parthasarathy.
"It’s important to alternate heel heights to support different muscles and prevent overuse injuries. However, if flats are worn daily, it’s crucial to ensure they provide adequate support," says Dr. Suzanne Levine from Millennium Podiatry.
What features and materials to look for when buying work flats?
According to Levine, features like breathability, arch support and outsole construction are crucial for optimal comfort.
"Opt for flats made of natural leather to promote airflow and reduce moisture buildup, thus lowering the risk of fungal infections. Look for flats with a semi-rigid arch support to provide stability and prevent excessive strain on the foot’s arches. Choose flats with a thick outsole for adequate cushioning and shock absorption, which is particularly important for those with foot discomfort," says Levine.
She continues, "Select lightweight flats to reduce fatigue during extended wear. Consider flats with memory foam or polyethylene insoles, as they help minimize friction and pressure points, reducing the likelihood of developing blisters."
Also, Parthasarathy recommends the following when shopping for flats:
- The shoe should not be able to fold completely in half.
- Ideally, it should have a removable insole.
- Flats should have a firm, supportive heel counter.
- Look for a wider toe box and avoid pointy flats.
Best flats for work, according to editors
Dream Pairs Almond Toe Arch Support Flat
- Foam insole
- Beautiful aesthetic
- Takes a day or two to break in
Size: 5-11 | Colors: Seven | Material: Not specified
Commerce writer Danielle Murphy spent two days breaking in these flats. But this is an everyday pair that is reliable when it comes to work and commute.
"The brand sent me a pair to try and now I’m a Dream Pairs stan. I think I need to order these in all the colors. Not only do they look stunning, but they’re one of the comfiest flats I own. They have an arch-supporting insole with a cushion that ACTUALLY cushions and a knitted fabric that is snug but non-irritating. They are the real deal," says Murphy.
Cole Haan Yvette Ballet Flats
- Instant comfort
- Supportive sole and upper
- Feet can get sweaty
Size: 5-11 | Colors: Four | Material: Patent leather
“The first moment I stepped into these flats I was obsessed. They’re comfortable, feminine and supportive, especially for walkers,” says commerce writer Jannely Espinal.
This pair combines the elegance of leather with the support of a sneaker thanks to the rubber outsole. “You can pair these flats with jeans, shorts, dresses, and is a shoe that won’t let you down when you’re walking through slippery surfaces. They’ve become my go-to shoes for office days,” adds Espinal.
Vivaia Square-Toe Mary-Jane
- Elegant design
- Very comfortable
- Go up half a size
Size: 5-11 | Colors: 20 | Material: Knit upper, natural artemisia argyi herbal insole, rubber outsole
Espinal also owns a pair of Vivaia flats and loves the walker iteration of these flats. “They’re comfortable and zhuzh up any outfit when you wear them. I went for a bigger size since they run small, but these flats are meant for the commuter that needs comfort and elegance,” she says.
They are available in many colors and patterns, and they feature a sturdy rubber outsole that is non-slippery.
Madewell The Greta Ballet Flat
- Luxury leather
- Comfortable
- Wide not available
Colors: 12 | Sizes: 5-12 | Material: Leather
"This fall, I was on the hunt for a pair of plain black ballet flats (no bows, no studs, no mesh) and landed on these leather Mary Janes from Madewell," says editorial assistant Erica Marrison. "While I bought them because I like the simple, minimalist style (I was trying to get the look of a pricier designer pair), I’ve been surprised by how comfortable these are. I typically struggle to find flats that work for me, as the backs of my ankles are pointy and blister-prone, but I’ve been wearing these with ease all fall." Marrison also adds that they’re perfect for work, daywear and evening dinners.
Birdies The Starling
- Very comfortable footbed
- Soft feel
- Can run narrow
Colors: 28 | Sizes: 5-13 (half sizes available) | Width: Medium or wide | Materials: Vegan velvet
"These are so soft and comfortable," raves deputy editorial director Alexandra Deabler. "They have a true loafer look, which I love, but they’re velvet." However, she recommends wearing no-show socks because they can get sweaty.
Rothy's The Point
- Very comfortable
- Machine washable
- Can run small
- Material can cause foot odor
Size: 5-13 | Colors: Seven | Material: Knit
Senior editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil owns three pairs of Rothy's for its versatility and comfort. "They’re comfortable enough for my commute (which involves a 20-minute walk) and to keep on all day. I’ve also machine-washed them which is an incredible feature, considering how much I wear them!" adds Zabloudil.
Hue Anna Liflat
- Comfortable
- Washable
Colors: Three | Sizes: 6-11 | Materials: Knit
I just went to an event for Hue’s new shoe launch, and these shoes are soooooo comfortable. (They’re designed just like Rothy’s but I actually think they are more comfortable, if you can believe that).
Associate editor Shannon Garlin swears that these flats from Hue are "soooooo comfortable." She continues, "The insole is removable, so you can wash the shoe in the washing machine. And the neatest part is that they sell washable “sole socks” for it; you can cover the insole with the sock to prevent your shoes from smelling and getting sweaty during the summer. I’ve been wearing them to work, and I feel like I’m wearing slippers."
More flats for work
Babudog Mesh Dress Flats
- Classy design
- Great value
- Insole slides off
Size: 5-11 | Colors: 15 | Materials: Mesh and polyvinyl chloride
One Shop TODAY contributor fell in love with these flats due to their comfortable feel, lightweight construction and breathable material. But what she loved most? "But the most useful feature has to be their portability. I can fold them in half and easily fit them into a pocket, purse or tote."
Fracora Ballet Flats with Floral Eyelets
- Very flattering
- Feel breathable
- No arch support
Size: 5-11 (select half sizes available) | Colors: 13 | Materials: Faux leather and rubber
These ballet flats feature a cute floral eyelet detail and are available in 13 shades. Over 5,000 reviewers have given the pair a five-star rating, with one shopper saying that they're "the most comfortable shoes I have put on my feet in years! The footbed feels amazing with memory foam."
VenusCelia Natural Comfort Flat Loafer
- Soles are supportive
- Not enough support
Size: 5-12 (half sizes available) | Colors: 49 | Material: Leather
The people have spoken! These Amazon loafers have over 13,000 five-star reviews, with many of them highlighting the shoe’s comfort and durability. They come in nearly 50 colors, so we can almost guarantee there’s a pair (or many!) available to match your work wardrobe.
Musshoe Slip-On Flats
- Slip-resistant outsole
- Very stylish
- Can run a little wide
Size: 6-11 (half sizes available) | Colors: 35 | Materials: Rubber and microfiber
These flats have over 2,600 verified five-star ratings from shoppers who are praising them for their comfortable feel and professional look. The insole is made with two layers of memory foam, and the heel is backed with sponge cushioning for extra comfort, according to the brand.
Amazon Essentials Women’s Loafer Flat
- Available in half and wide
- Comfortable and padded
- Faux suede; avoid rain, etc
Colors: 11 | Sizes: 5-15 (half and wide sizes available) | Materials: Microsuede
"I find myself reaching for these shoes when I have a casual work event, need a cute shoe to wear out for a meal or if I want to slip on something easy and comfy while driving," says contributor Colleen Sullivan. "I also recently took these flats on vacation with me to Bermuda, where my husband and I lunched at a 5-Star hotel — my stylish shoes fit right in! I recommend these for anyone looking for a stylish and comfortable alternative to their everyday shoe."
FunkyMonkey Classic Ballet Flats
- Non-slip outsole
- Not ideal for wide feet
Size: 5-11 (half sizes available) | Colors: 12 | Material: Polyurethane
If knit flats aren't your style, these classic ballet options boast a faux leather upper that gives them an office-appropriate look. One reviewer mentioned that the shoes check off some of the important boxes: They're comfortable, flexible and the sizing is accurate, according to some shoppers.
Allbirds Women's Tree Breezers
- Four limited-edition colors
- Sustainable
- 100% machine washable
Colors: 12 | Sizes: 5-11 (half sizes available) | Materials: Eucalyptus tree fiber
According to the brand, this flat offers "next-level" comfort. It was designed with your foot's breathability it mind and has a ribbed collar to ensure a secure fit.
Semwiss Women’s Comfortable Ballet Flats
- Fit wide feet
- Very flexible
- Not water resistant
Size: 6-10 (half sizes available) | Colors: 12 | Material: Mesh and rubber
These affordable ballet flats may be made from a knit material, but the brand says they’re far from stuffy. The pointed toe and lined design is also made to give feet a flattering and slimmer look.
Ollio Faux Suede Slip-On Comfort Ballet Flats
- All-day comfort
- Narrow toe box
Size: 6-11 (select half sizes available) | Colors: 13 | Materials: Faux suede, rubber and 100% synthetic
According to the brand, these slip-ons are made from a comfortable faux suede. How comfortable? Comfortable for a bride to wear during her wedding reception: “Very happy with these shoes. I wanted some light blue flats for my wedding reception and these are perfect. They are a suede type material but sturdy. I don’t feel like I need to break them in and I spent an afternoon wearing them and had no blisters.”
Dream Pairs Low Wedge Ankle Strap Flats
- Go with most outfits
- Zipper is stiff
Size: 5-12 (select half sizes available) | Colors: 13 | Material: Rubber
This pair of flats features a cute ankle strap and a cushioned footbed to help your feet stay comfortable throughout the day. (How comfortable? Just ask the five-star reviewer who wore them to an eight-hour-long wedding.) According to the brand, they run on the smaller side, so be sure to order half a size up.
Frank Mully Knit Ballet Flats
- Feature double insoles
- Feel wider around toes
Size: 6-12 (half sizes available) | Colors: 35 | Material: Rubber and knit fabric
If you find that your feet sweat while you walk, the brand says the knit upper on these flats offers some ventilation. In addition to function, they hit the mark in fashion, too: Whether you prefer a neutral nude to pair with slacks or a bright pop of pink or red to brighten up your wardrobe, you'll have almost 40 colors to choose from when picking out a pair.
Dr. Scholl’s Giorgie Ballet Flat
- Memory foam footbed
- Upper material feels stiff
Size: 6-11 (half and wide sizes available) | Colors: Two | Material: 100% synthetic
Shop TODAY contributor Marci Robin tried these flats and said they offered next-level comfort. "The memory foam footbed of the Giorgie Ballet Flats made them a dream to walk in from day one — minute one, even — and there’s something comforting about knowing that the insole fabric is antimicrobial and odor-fighting (says the brand)," she says.
Sam Edelman Michaela Gem Mary Jane Flat
- Size inclusive
- Gems are fragile
Size: 5-13 (select half sizes available) | Colors: 40 | Material: Suede
For a more edgy look, opt for these comfortable flats from Steve Madden. They are similar to a designer brand you might have eyed on the internet and feature gem-encrusted details for a party-ready outfit.
Also, they go up to size 13 if you struggle with finding shoes for big feet.
How we chose
We selected flats based on shoppers' reviews, overall performance and construction. We also asked our editors for their favorite picks while considering the features advised by experts. The list compiles a collection of flats that are easy to style, affordable and durable.
Meet the experts
- Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, DPM is a board-certified foot doctor and spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association.
- Dr. Suzanne Levine is an aesthetic podiatrist and board-certified podiatrist foot surgeon based in New York.
