Black Flats Are a Timeless Essential — Stock Up on Our 18 Favorites
Black flats are something of a wardrobe essential. The versatile color alone makes them a perfect match for any work outfit, while the low and often nonexistent heel guarantees all-day comfort — even for your longest days outside of the house.
There's a reason black ballet flats have such a universal appeal. From commuting to the office or airport and beyond, the shoe carries a certain timeless elegance that makes them universally stylish and appropriate for just about any dress code or occasion. While some might classify black flats as boring, we like to challenge that idea by finding the most stylish pairs — of which there are so many options to choose from (trust us!).
While a simple ballerina flat will never go out of style (especially with the rise in balletcore aesthetics), there are some more intricate designs that make comfortable black flats anything but basic. We tapped out team of shopping experts to see which black flats are truly worth the investment — and conveniently rounded them all up for you ahead. Consider these options worthy buys for long office days, spontaneous plans, or even a first date. Our top picks from experts include everything from black pointed toe flats and other rounded styles to leather pairs with sleek chains, bow detailings, and even a few ballet flats for walking that provide all-day comfort. There are so many stylish, black flats for women to shop (and love!) through every season of life. So, what are you waiting for? Stock up on the style and grab your new favorite pair ahead.
— Additional reporting by Macy Cate Williams and Shelcy Joseph
Best Overall Black Flats: Steve Madden Feather Loafer Flat
If you're in the market for a polished shoe that you can wear on repeat to the office, on date night, or even through the airport while traveling, we really can't recommend this sleek Steve Madden Feather Loafer Flat ($80) enough.
Editor Quote: "From the shoe's relaxed, loafer design and durable leather composition to the style's sleek mold and ability to fit seamlessly around the foot, I seriously can't name a better investment shoe than this one. From work events to weeknight cocktail dates and beyond, this is a black flat I find myself reaching for time and time again." - Kyley Warren, Assistant Editor, Commerce
Best Black Slippers: Birdies Starling Flat
There's a myriad of benefits to owning a pair of comfortable, dressy flats, but we'd argue the big selling point on this particular Birdies Starling Flat ($98) is the fact that they're a favorite of Meghan Markle's — and even POPSUGAR's own editors, too. Learn more about the refined style in this product review on Birdies Slippers.
Editor Quote: "I'm telling you honestly, these well-made flats are worth every penny. I'm already contemplating my next pair. I appreciate that they're effortless enough to wear around the house but chic enough to rock for a party. Did I mention Meghan Markle wears the loafer style on the regular? Yep, they're royal-approved." - Macy Cate Williams, Former Content Director, Commerce
Best Black Mary Jane Flats: Sam Edelman Michaela Mary Jane Flat
Lean into a preppier aesthetic with this Sam Edelman Michaela Mary Jane Flat ($90, originally $130). The belted black flats ooze a nostalgic flair that's so timeless, and we love the way the shoe is made all the more elevated by its dainty, gold hardware design.
Editor Quote: "For years, I questioned whether or not I was fashionable enough to actually pull off a pair of Mary Jane flats. The verdict might still be out on that matter, but I can honestly say no style in my closet makes me feel more chic or timeless than these black Mary Jane flats from Sam Edelman. I love the buckle detailing, and the way that they can be styled with truly anything in my closet." - Kyley Warren, Assistant Editor, Shop
Best Classic Black Flats: Schutz Arissa Flats
From the moment you step into a room, all eyes will be on you in these Schutz Arissa Flats ($88). The ultra-femme flats are wrapped in a leather fabrication that's both chic and durable. Not only is the style available to shop in a variety of colors (including honey beige, silver, and black), but it also comes highly recommended by POPSUGAR's own fashion experts.
Editor Quote: "My favorite black flats are hands down the Arissa Ballet flat from Schutz. To me, there's something edgy yet elevated about the crinkled patent leather and square toe that make these stand out and even work for date night or bar hopping." - Sarah Wasilak, Senior Editor, Fashion
Best Comfortable Black Flats: Margaux The Demi Black Flat
Finding a stylish pair of flats that are comfortable and fit properly is honestly half the battle when shopping for the shoe — and the other half is simply avoiding the style's perpetual blister-inducing capabilities. Miraculously, this Margaux The Demi Black Flat ($195) is hailed by fashion-lovers and POPSUGAR editors alike for its ability to fit just about every foot — regardless of its shape or size. Read our Margaux Ballet Flat product review to learn more!
Editor Quote: "After slipping into one pair that was a little too big, and then another that was the size below, the third narrower option felt like they had been made just for me. They were beyond comfortable (thanks to their killer padded insole), didn't pinch anywhere, and miraculously didn't allow my heel any allowance when it came to slippage." - Avery Matera, Contributor
Best Black Ballet Flats: Rothy's The Point Black Ballet Flat
Looking for a comfortable black flat that's as sustainable as it is stylish? Look no further than this Rothy's The Point Black Ballet Flat ($149). Crafted from recycled plastic water bottles, the shoe is truly one of a kind. One POPSUGAR editor not only called them her "favorite flats in the world," but also praised the style's ability to not cause blisters (we're already sold!) in this product review of Rothy flats.
Editor Quote: "I've been sporting The Point in black for over a year now, and my pair also features a white racing stripe down the side, a stylish little touch from one of the brand's first collections." — Sarah Wasilak, Senior Editor, Fashion
Best Budget Black Flats: Old Navy Textured-Knit Pointy-Toe Ballet Flats
While black flats are certainly a great investment shoe, make no mistake — you can just as easily find a great ballerina flat without having to dish out a ton of money on the style. The proof? Just look at these Old Navy Textured-Knit Pointy-Toe Ballet Flats ($35). The timeless, ballerina flat shoe is seamlessly encompassed in an under-$50 style that we're confident you'll want to wear again and again.
Best Black Flats For Wide Feet: Nisolo Traditional Huaraches
If you have large, wide feet, then you already know that attempting to shop out a pair of flats that will fit comfortably can be a pretty daunting challenge in itself. Fortunately, with these Nisolo Traditional Huaraches ($130), you can easily slip into the style and still have plenty of room to spare thanks to the shoe's handwoven, stretchy silhouette and breathable design.
Best Black Flats For Work: Kelly & Katie Jolene Dip Flat
A classic loafer and ballerina shoe are seamlessly combined into one singularly cool style with this Kelly & Katie Jolene Dip Flat ($60, originally $90). The product is wrapped in a sleek, leather-crafted silhouette that can pair perfectly with jeans, trousers, and even the right pair of joggers. While we're partial to the black coloring, the flat is also available to shop in a sandy beige color.
Best Black Loafers: COACH Marley Driving Moccasin
This COACH Marley Driving Moccasin ($145) has a classic aesthetic that brings the brand's signature iconic hardware with a stitched vamp and nubby sole — talk about an upgrade! Pair it with blue jeans and a white button-down for a cool off-duty look. Or even throw in a sweater vest to dial things up.
Best Black Flats For Walking: J.Crew Zoe Ballet Flats
These J.Crew Zoe Ballet Flats ($96, originally $128) are an upgrade on the classic ballet flat with slightly more toe coverage and a super-soft, canvas-lined leather that makes them look extremely polished. The dainty bow adds a feminine touch, while the sole feels practical and flexible. For a limited time, shoppers can also get an additional 25 percent off select styles at J.Crew (including these classic black flats) with the code EPIC.
Best Black Flats With Arch Support: Vionic Lena Pointed Toe Flat
This Vionic Lena Pointed Toe Flat ($120) features a cushioned footbed that is tested for orthotics. It'll naturally align with every step you take, providing an added sense of comfort that's not often found in classic flats. The luxe, pointed-toe silhouette and heeled flat design is just an added bonus.
Best Black Pointed Flats: Mango Decorative Buckle Toe Shoes
Made in a leather-blend fabric for a sleek and edgy look, these Mango Decorative Buckle Toe Shoes ($70) will be your go-to for long work commutes. The pointed-toe black flats will pair well with your favorite blue jeans, midi dresses, or maxi skirts. And the timeless shoe will help you to feel supported, stylish, and confident to take on anything — even those really long days outside of the house.
Best Black Rounded Flats: Tory Burch Minnie Travel Ballet Flats
There's a reason customers can't get enough of these Tory Burch Minnie Travel Ballet Flats ($228). In fact, this style is celebrated as one of the brand's most popular shoes. From the iconic logo that gives it a luxe feel to the rounded toe and cushy leather flat, they are as polished as they come.
Best Black Open-Toe Flats: Melissa + Jason Wu Peep-Toe Woven Flats
When you want to opt for something a bit more breathable, go for these Melissa + Jason Wu Peep-Toe Woven Flats ($65, originally $98). The open-toe ballet flats boast an airy, woven design that creates a chic, almost handcrafted appeal, all while promoting constant air flow to the foot. Consider these the perfect black flats for warm weather or to wear throughout the summer months.
Best Embellished Black Flats: Kate Spade Marlee Flats
These Kate Spade Marlee Flats ($79, originally $179) seamlessly blend comfort, style, and warmth — making them a wintertime favorite! The style's soft to the touch design elevates the look with a cozy appeal, while the classic stitching and pearl detailing completes the flat with an inimitable charm that's sure to be on-trend in any season.
Best Black Flats With a Bow: Sam Edelman Felicia Flat
The delicate bow on this Sam Edelman Felicia Flat ($120) adds such a sweet and subtle touch. Additionally, the embedded logo makes an otherwise classic ballet flat all the more effortless and cool. All things considered, the style makes for a really charming pair of day-to-night shoes.
Best Dressy Black Flats: Tory Burch Eleanor Leather Loafers
These Tory Burch Eleanor Leather Loafers ($298) are embellished with a gold logo that conveys a luxe look and feel. They are made from buttery leather and finished with an elasticized back heel. The style is also great because it boasts the feel of a flat shoe and the appeal of a loafer, all in one singular style.