Ask Allie: Ballet Flat Alternatives

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I love ballet flats but they look weird on me. My husband says I look like I cut off my feet is it because I’m short and plus size? What shoes can a short plus size girl wear and not look weird?

Girl I hear you loud and clear. I’m short, I’m overweight and on top of that I have thick legs and ankles; ballet flats look ridiculous on me. I understand the appeal of ballet flats – they’re classic, they’re easily found at popular retailers, they can slip easily in your bag to be a good commuting shoe. But the thing is most ballet flats aren’t comfortable for long spans of time, and they make shorter and larger women look awkward or top heavy. So here’s some great flat shoe alternatives that will give your soles a break and look more flattering with your figure!

pointed toe flats
Top row: BP. | Sole Society  | Nine West

Pointed Toe Flats
A flat with a pointed toe elongates the foot, preventing you from looking as though you got hacked off at the ankle. Pointed flats look adorable peeking out from a trouser’s hem, are flattering with cropped and ankle pants, and look chic with skirts. Pointed toe flats don’t have to be uncomfortable; most are made to have the pointed part empty with your foot in the normal sized portion. A pair of insoles can keep your foot from sliding into the pointed part for all-day comfort.

dorsay flats trend

d’Orsay Flats
d’Orsay flats are back en vogue and I couldn’t be happier. Such a style of shoe is elegant, dresses up better than other flat styles of shoes, and is more comfortable on a steamy summer day. d’Orsay flats usually have a pointed toe, so they work in the same manner as the flats featured above.

embellished toe flats
Top row: Nine West | COACH | COACH

Embellished Front Flats
If your shoe is topped with decoration, it provides substance and better balances your figure. A flat with a buckle, flower, or other decoration adds interest to a look without being too overwhelming. This season’s ankle and cropped pants are a perfect way to showcase the detail of such a shoe, and embellished flats are the perfect partner for midi and fuller skirts.

very low heel flats
Middle row: Me Too | Via Spiga | SIXTYSEVEN
Bottom row: ara | Fitzwell | Ivanka Trump

Very Low Heel or Wedge Flats
It’s amazing how just a teensy bit of lift can transform a flat and make it more flattering. A very low heel or wedge is actually more supportive and comfortable than a true flat, and it’s also more appropriate for an office setting. Wear such a shoe as you would with flats, low heels and wedges look great with all lengths and styles of pants and skirts.

Do you have any suggestions on ballet flat alternatives?

 

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2 Comments

  1. I want to wear ballet flats but I am a man . What kind of flat and what color to wear with Capri pants. I tried on sa woman’s 10 medium. Something in soft leather . Thanks

    1. I know people love Tieks, which are soft leather. They come in a variety of colors. If you need a wide width, check out the “felicia” from Sam Edelman or the Hush Puppies “chaste’ (you can find both at Nordstrom or Zappos). If you don’t want them to stand out, choose a color similar to your skintone. If you want something versatile, black or navy goes with many colors. However, don’t be afraid to pick your favorite color to make a statement. I have a pair of orange flats and they get more wear than my black ones because they’re the pop of color needed to take a look to the next level. Orange, turquoise, red, or pink are all great choices that look good with other colors, neutrals like black and tan, as well as denim. And don’t think the color has to be in a print if you’re wearing them with a printed pair of capris. If you have a floral print with pink, blue, green, and yellow you can wear a pair of turquoise ballet flats, it can be a fun pop!

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