A Season to Shine: Why Flat Shoes Are the Perfect Companion for Warm Weather

In the midst of summer’s warmth, it’s time to reconsider the traditional high heel. For fashion expert Jess Cartner-Morley, the decision to swap heels for flats is not just about comfort, but about embracing the season’s unique style. As the weather warms up, people often associate high heels with the season’s most iconic events, such as summer weddings and garden parties. However, Cartner-Morley argues that this is a misconception.

“We must have been mad to wear high heels in summer,” Cartner-Morley writes. “Being outside in the garden or park, walking instead of taking the bus, or attending a summer wedding – it’s just not compatible with heels.” The Guardian journalist has adopted a “flats-only” policy for the next couple of months, and it’s not just about sacrificing style for practicality. For Cartner-Morley, the decision to wear flats is about embracing the freedom and ease of summer fashion.

Cartner-Morley argues that flats don’t have to be basic. With the right style and design, they can be just as glamorous as their high-heeled counterparts. “There is a flat shoe for every summer occasion,” she insists. “It’s all about matching the shoe to the look.” From strappy sandals to brogues and patent pumps, Cartner-Morley explores the art of pairing flat shoes with outfits that exude style and sophistication.

One key aspect of choosing the right flat shoe is understanding the difference between styles and shapes. “Not all flats are created equal,” Cartner-Morley notes. “Some elevate, and some don’t.” The right flat shoe can elevate an outfit, while the wrong one can detract from it. Cartner-Morley highlights the importance of considering the silhouette, with enclosed shoes being more formal and bare and strappy looks casual.

For Cartner-Morley, the perfect flat shoe is one that adds an element of elegance and sophistication to an outfit. She recommends looking for shoes with good-quality leather, a nice pedicure, and a stylish design. “A minimal flat sandal can be fabulous for a summer party,” she writes. “But it needs to be elegant – good-quality leather with a nice pedicure reads very differently from plastic flip-flops and gnarly toes.”

Another key aspect of choosing the right flat shoe is considering the occasion. Cartner-Morley suggests that for more formal events, such as summer weddings, a pair of enclosed flat shoes, such as a brogue or a loafer, can be a great option. For more casual events, such as a garden party or a summer BBQ, a pair of strappy sandals or a pair of flat sandals can be a great choice.

Ultimately, the decision to ditch high heels for flats is about embracing the unique style of the season. “Summer is a time to be flat-out fabulous,” Cartner-Morley concludes. With the right flat shoes, there’s no need to sacrifice style for comfort. Whether you’re attending a summer wedding, a garden party, or just running errands, Cartner-Morley’s tips on choosing the right flat shoe can help you look and feel your best.