I’m always in search of cute comfortable flats to wear on those days that I just don’t want to wear heels. On days that I’m exhausted, I prefer to wear flats so that I can feel lower to the ground and so that my calves don’t have to work so hard.
Black flats are a necessary staple to anyone’s wardrobe because they go with just about everything. But what kind of flats to choose is another story. I recently ordered two different pairs of flats – a lace-up option and a simple slip-on flat. I’ve been looking for a new pair of black flats for some time now so the question of which to choose came up. Below, I listed the pros and cons that helped me make my decision.
The Lace-Up Flat:
Pros: Trendy, cute and looks good with skirts, dresses and skinny ankle jeans.
Cons: Trendy, and may be out of style in a few years. Doesn’t work with a corporate outfit. The laces add on a few more minutes to your prep time.
The Traditional Flat:
Pros: Simple, stylish, and timeless. Can be worn with any outfit including slacks. Easy, slip-on style.
Cons: I can’t think of any.
So, I weighed my options and ended up keeping the BP ballet flats. I can wear them with just about anything and not have to worry about them going out of style in a few years. I also love the toe-cleavage on these flats. 🙂 The laces on the Steve Madden lace-ups drove me crazy and it just took too much time to get them the way I wanted them! So back to the store they went. I must admit however, that both of these shoes are extremely comfortable and I would recommend either of them.
What are your thoughts on traditional black flats versus a more trendier style? Would you go for one over the other?
Below I’ve linked various styles of black flats that are great choices whether you want to go the more trendy route or whether you want to keep it simple.
Have a great day lovelies!
Amanda Bella says
I haven’t tried the lace up flats yet, but I see so many ladies wearing them! They’re adorable, but I’m really short so tying anything around my ankles doesn’t usually work in my favor. 🙁 However, the other pair is really cute + definitely something I’d wear! I’ve been in the market for a black pair for a while now, I really like how those look on you! 🙂
simplygailg says
The BP flats are a great choice Amanda. They’re lightweight and so comfortable! Maybe one day I’ll try the lace-ups but for now I’ll stick with simplicity. Haha. Xx
Morgan England says
I love the BP flats, but I am not going to lie I am all about suffering the extra pain and annoyance for the extra flair haha I love both pairs of the shoes, but I think I am really digging those lace ups!
simplygailg says
I hear you Morgan. Your style is amazeballs anyway so you can rock anything! Xoxo
Cheyanne says
I always go traditional with black flats. 🙂 They’re BLACK FLATS. I want to be able to wear them with ANYTHING for a long, long time.
I do like going trendy with other colors/patterns though 🙂
simplygailg says
I agree with you on that Cheyanne. I don’t mind trendy flats in other colors but I do like a simple black flat. Thanks for stopping by lady! Xoxo
raysastyle says
Love both pairs. especially the Steve Madden. 🙂
Happy New week ahead!
Xox, Raysa
simplygailg says
Yes, they’re both really nice and comfortable to boot! Xx
Erin says
So cute!! Love these traditional flats. Perfect! xx, Erin – http://www.stylebythepeople.com
simplygailg says
Thanks for reading! Xoxo
MemeSu says
I’m so eager to try the lace up flat! The traditional flat is always a favorite so that’s definitely in my collection! The trend right now is lace ups on flats and heels…its super annoying sometimes trying to do all of that work to get out the door, but these are just so darn cute!
simplygailg says
Haha, therein lies the problem. I don’t have that much time to tie up these suckers. Maybe one day, I will cave and purchase a pair. But for now, I’ll stick to the simple flat. Thanks for reading love! Xoxo
Krista Williams says
Love love an easy pair of black flats – the BEST.
Great post, babe
xo
Krista
http://www.hundredblog.com
simplygailg says
Thanks hon! Black flats, though a little boring, are totally easy! Xoxo
Lauren of An Explorer's Heart says
I love a great pair of black patent flats – definitely a closet staple!
simplygailg says
I totally agree! ?
Mariam says
I honestly love both! I can’t wear flats too much though because I have high arches. On a regular day, I’m wearing heels or sneakers. Flats are usually a good alternative If I’m in a hurry. Great post with a good perspective on trendy vs comfy!
xo Mariam
http://www.thepetitebijou.com
simplygailg says
Thanks Mariam! I’m more of a flats girl who wears the occasional heel. I wish I had that high arch problem. I’d be rocking heels everyday! Xoxo
Kait Elizabeth says
Black flats are my absolute go to when it comes to shoes. You can never go wrong with something Audrey Hepburn wore. Hugs, Kait
http://www.makeminemaroon.com
simplygailg says
I totally agree Kait! Xoxo
Janna Doan says
gail–great post. i totally agree with all your points on the lace up flats. they are a little but of a hassle and not workplace friendly or at least i wouldn’t wear them to work. but its a nice option to have. it’s always good to go with basics first! or for something trendy i’d probably go with a cheaper brand like old navy or f21. thanks for sharing. xoxo,
janna | http://www.jannadoan.com
simplygailg says
I agree Janna. Basics first, trend second. Xoxo
Meaghan says
Love your post Gail!! Black flats are such a wardrobe necessity. I recently purchased some lace up flats and totally adore them. I’m all about statement shoes, so I’m drawn to lace ups ❤️ I know some styles have a zipper which would solve your dilemma of time and frustration over the laces not looking like you want every time. Have a lovely week!
Meaghan xx
simplygailg says
I do like the lace-ups but would probably do them another color and of course wear them outside of work. Thanks for reading! Xoxo
Samantha says
You make some great points here! Lace up flats are super cute for right now, but may not be in trend soon!! However, I think if they fall within a certain colour scheme…you can make them work!!
Great post xoxo really enjoyed reading it!!
simplygailg says
Thanks for reading lady! Glad you enjoyed it! Xoxo
Erica Huynh says
I’m loving the lace up flats and looking to get one for this summer! I usually wear the traditional black flats with jeans though.
simplygailg says
Lace-ups will definitely be everywhere this summer. The Steve Madden flats are a great choice if you’re looking. Thanks for stopping by! Xoxo
ruthieridley says
Adore both pairs!! You can’t go wrong with Steve!! Xo
simplygailg says
You definitely can’t Ruthie. My favorite shoes are from Steve Madden. Xoxo
stopdropandvogue says
I like the lace up flats, but I would wear both of them. The normal ones for work and the lace ups for apres work! Such a lovely post, Gail!
httpsss://stopdropandvogue.com
simplygailg says
Yes, I totally agree Taylor!
Nena says
Both are cute, but I love the laces better:) They are more unique and I would even wear them in a corporate setting for a subtle and stylish accessory;)
BTW, I wanted to let you know that I recently moved to a self-hosted site and the following is the latest post:
httpsss://www.younfolded.com/2016/03/20/younfolded-temporary-maintenance/
simplygailg says
Congrats on the move love. I will check it out and make sure that I follow you there! Xoxo
Nena says
Thank you again, Gail:)