I have been trying to build my flats collection since, as I have mentioned before, extended heel-wearing has taken a toll on my ankles and I would like to minimize further damage as I plan to keep running until I am 85. So far I’ve acquired a few pairs but most aren’t exactly work appropriate (too much sparkle and a touch too pink).
My latest addition is this pair of Kate Spade New York Frenchie Patent Ballerina Flats acquired during the Neiman Marcus extra 40% off sale. I love the color combination; it’s reminiscent of the pair of Valentino Bow Ballerina Flats that Cee has.
And I guess now’s as good a time as any to quickly review the flats that I currently own and figure out where to go from here.
D&G Black Patent Ballerina Flats – this pair of workhorse flats were an old favorite that are about a half size too small. I kept hoping the shoes would stretch out with wear but they’ve remained stubborn. Another black pair may be in my future.
Chinese Laundry flats in green – I bought these years ago in two sizes and donated the right size by accident (oops). I thought working a 9-5 job means having to wear old lady shoes but I never wore these. I might start.
Lacoste Mary Jane Flats – my favorite pair of flats, hands down. The color is a little too romantic for work but I still wear them when I anticipate landmine filled city streets. They are incredibly comfortable but the style is a little too pre-K for my taste.
Banana Republic Factory Cream Tweed Flats – bought on sale for $6-7ish? at the BR factory store late spring. I have worn these shoes to pieces; perhaps it’s an indication that if I were to invest in pair of good cream flats I can expect the same love?
DV by Dolce Vita Flora Flat – purchased about a year ago on super sale; the color never excited me and I’ve left them alone in their box for the most part.
Jimmy Choo Whirl Patent-Leather Ballerina Flats – a recent addition. They are lovely but I can’t find an occasion or outing significant enough to warrant their appearance.
Taryn Rose Brigid Ballet Flat – like the Jimmy Choo’s these are a little fancy for everyday and I ordered them a half size too big which is sad because they are lovely.
Cindy Says Women’s Love It Ballerina Flats – surprisingly comfortable but the metallic finish is not versatile. I played it safe and ordered the silver but should’ve gone with a bold canary yellow. Reviewers said this shoe ran big and the elastic wasn’t tight but I like my flats to be slightly loose rather than slightly snug.
I didn’t go about purchasing my flats with a strategy, which I now regret, but I hope to get some basic (and comfortable) pairs that will complement my current collection. Do you have any recommendations?