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The 11 Most Comfortable Black Flats, According to ELLE Editors
Collectively, we’ve tried a lot of options; here are our favorites.
Practical shoes are a universal staple for working women, including the ELLE team. I tapped my editors for their personal recommendations for the most comfortable black flats. I figured this information could be useful to all, so let’s get into it.
The style isn’t inherently comfortable, so you have to do your research in order to find a pair you can really wear all day. Luckily, I got a jump start for you. “Ballet flats are derived from an actual ballerina shoe, which by nature, tends to be more rigid and structured for dancing and performance,” says Dennice Quijano Jaye, senior product designer at Allbirds. As such, materials, insole, and quality make a huge difference in wearability. Lexie Chan, director of regional operations at Vivaia, agrees. She notes that flats should absorb shock to reduce the pressure on your feet throughout the day, not dissimilar to the best walking shoes.
Below, you’ll find versatile flats for every occasion that come with a stamp of approval from me or a fellow ELLE team member. Because classic black flats are such a quintessential style, we have a lot of experience—and thus, opinions—on the matter. With breathable fabrics and durable soles, scroll on for the most comfortable black flats to add to your shoe rack today.
Digital director Claire Stern Milch loves these flats, and I don’t know about you, but I trust her fashion sense with my life.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Black, Blush, Brown
Material: Leather
For the conscientious shopper, Rothy’s makes its flats sustainably with thread woven from plastic bottles. Senior news and strategy editor Alyssa Bailey loves that these are comfortable, stylish, and machine washable.
Sizes: 5-13
Colors: 10 options
Material: Plastic bottles
Customer review: “Love, love, love these! They look even better in person.”
Here’s another sustainable brand I love. Vivaia’s flats, which are woven from recycled plastic bottles, are easy to clean and maintain, adding to their convenience and longevity.
Sizes: 5-13
Colors: 10 options
Material: Plastic bottles
Customer review: “I already had some basics from Vivaia, and they fit so well that I thought I’d buy another cute pair. These are adorable.”
The Eva style features the luxurious quality and elegance that The Row is known for. Buy them now; wear them forever.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Black
Material: Leather
Another favorite from Alyssa Bailey, this classic pair is as timeless as they come. Handmade with quality leather, they feature a square toe, which is ideal for a roomier fit.
Sizes: 5-13
Colors: Black, Tan, Navy, Antique Rose, Sunset Red
Material: Leather
Customer review: “Love this shoe. Super trendy. Very comfortable and extremely beautiful.”
Allbirds’ knit flats are a fantastic choice for the eco-friendly materials and unparalleled comfort, according to reviewers. They offer breathability and a soft feel, which is perfect for all-day wear.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: 10 options
Material: Eucalyptus tree fiber
Customer review: “Love these! I bought them for running around in the summer. I actually just got back from a trip to Europe where I wore them walking all day.”
Personally, I am obsessed with these slip-on mules. Crafted from premium leather, they are durable and have a sophisticated look that complements any outfit.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Black
Material: Leather
This shoe has endless styling possibilities. The patent leather is so chic, and the Mary Jane style ensures a secure fit. Plus, Louboutins—need I say more?
Sizes: 4-12
Colors: Black, Nude 1, Nude 2, Nude 4, Nude 5
Material: Patent calf leather
It’s everything you could ask for: affordable, comfortable, and available with Prime shipping.
Sizes: 5-15
Colors: 14 options
Material: Synthetic
Digital deputy editor Madison Feller and I both recommend this sparkly pair. It’s an exceptionally comfy shoe and a great way to jazz up any outfit. Feller even wore them for her wedding!
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Black, Vintage Pink
Material: Synthetic, leather
Associate fashion commerce editor Meg Donohue says these made a flat-wearing believer out of her. She adds orthotic inserts and wears them on heavy rotation.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Black
Material: Leather
How to Shop for Comfortable Flats
Here are a few key points to consider as you decide on a purchase:
- Material: What kind of fabric do you want? This may depend on the climate you live in. Cotton and linen are the most breathable option. Heavy-duty textiles like velvet or wool are warmer, but they are also among the easiest to get dirty. Leather is best for wiping clean. Chan recommends looking for flats that are machine washable.
- Comfort: It’s a good idea to look for cushioned insoles, per Chan, because it offers shock absorption and arch support.
- Adjustability: An adjustable strap can make a big difference in the fit of a shoe, but also in the comfort. If you feel like you’re falling out of your flats, or that they dig into the top of your foot, consider a different pair.
Meet the Expert
- Lexie Chan is the regional director of operations at Vivaia Shoes.
- Dennice Quijano Jaye is the senior product designer at AllBirds.
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