Can you believe I used to think there was nothing better than my Rothys flats?
Don’t get me wrong, I still love Rothys and basically live in my black pointed toe pair.
But once I discovered some other amazing shoe brands making stylish, comfortable flats I realized Rothys has some serious competition!
If you’re obsessed with Rothys like me, keep reading to learn about my awesome shoe brands that will become your new faves.
I’ll even share a funny story about the time I wore the wrong shoes to a party!
Allbirds
Allbirds makes the comfiest flats and loafers out of natural materials like wool and tree fiber. Their shoes feel like you’re walking on clouds! Plus they come in simple, neutral colors that go with everything.
I have the Tree Breezers in black, which are made from eucalyptus tree fiber. They mold perfectly to your feet and feel so lightweight.
The wool flats are great for winter to keep your feet warm and comfy. I also have a pair of their new Tree Flyer flats made from renewable sugarcane and castor bean oil – talk about eco-friendly! They have a cute daisy cutout design that adds subtle flair.
If you tend to get hot feet, Allbirds are a great choice since they’re so breathable. I can walk all day in them while traveling or spending a busy day shopping without getting that awful sweaty feet feeling.
They also come in wide sizes and half sizes to get the perfect fit. The downside is they are a bit pricey at $100-$125 per pair. But they’re worth it for the amazing quality and comfort!
Everlane
Everlane is known for their minimalist, ethical clothing and their flats are no exception. I love the pointed toe and squared off heel for a modern look.
They have both leather and suede options too. I have three different Everlane flats – the Day Glove in bone leather, the Editor Slingback in black suede, and the Square Toe flat in caramel suede. The leather Day Glove is my go-to pair for work because it’s so versatile and polished.
I get compliments on them all the time! The suede Editor has a flattering low-cut vamp and looks great with dresses. The square toe flats are a fun retro inspired style. Everlane shoes are very well made and hold up nicely over time.
They have a back pull tab to help get them on too. My only complaint is their flats tend to run narrow so I have to size up. But once broken in, the leather pairs conform perfectly to my feet. At $115-$165 they’re very reasonably priced for such high quality. I always feel put together when wearing Everlane flats!
Tieks
Tieks are probably the closest competitor to Rothys. Their flats fold up into a cute little bag and they come in every color and pattern imaginable. I have their rose gold cracked leather style and get so many compliments when I wear them.
The leather is super soft and molds perfectly to your feet. I also have a black matte leather pair that is my go-to for traveling since they’re so flexible and packable. Tieks use real Italian leather so they feel very luxurious.
They have a elastic band around the heel that keeps them securely on your feet. I can literally run in Tieks they are so comfortable! I’ve worn them for 12+ hours of walking on trips.
The downside is they are very expensive, ranging from $175 for solids up to $395 for exotic prints like anaconda. But if you can splurge, Tieks are hands down the most comfortable, stylish flats I own.
Birdies
Birdies are Meghan Markle’s go-to flats, so you know they must be good! They have a cushioned insole and cute quilted designs.
The black velvet style is perfect for holiday parties. I have the Starling style in ivory satin and always get asked where I got them when I wear them.
The satin has a beautiful subtle sheen and the nude color goes with everything. The quilted pattern and tassel details are so elegant.
I also have a pair in leopard print velvet that I love to wear with jeans on the weekend. Birdies have serious cushioning thanks to their 7-layer padded insole.
It feels like walking on a pillow! They also have great arch support. The only downside is they can get a bit hot in warm weather. But they’re totally worth it for the compliments I get every time I wear them! At $120-$160 they are reasonably priced too.
Cole Haan
Cole Haan combines classic silhouettes with innovative comfort technology in their ballet flats. Their Grand Ambition line has cushioned insoles that feel like walking on a cloud.
I swear my black patent leather pair are as comfortable as sneakers! The Grand Ambition collection is designed to be ultra lightweight and flexible. The patent leather has a polished glossy finish that dresses up any outfit.
They run true to size and have a great selection of width options. I also have a pair of their open toe flats for summer which are great for events where heels would kill my feet.
Cole Haan flats range from $120-$180 which is very reasonable given the quality. If you want flats that are equal parts stylish and comfortable, Cole Haan is a great brand to try.
Everlast
Everlast’s pointed toe flats have a sporty vibe with elastic around the topline. I like wearing them to the gym or for weekends on my feet running errands.
They come in fun metallics too! I have the Evie style in both black leather and pale gold metallic, which are two of my most reached for pairs. The elastic helps keep the fit really secure even if your feet swell during the day.
Everlast flats have cushioned latex foam insoles so they feel super squishy soft underfoot. They’re also very lightweight and flexible right out of the box.
For $50-60 they are an amazing affordable option. The metallic pairs add a subtle glam touch to casual outfits. If you want a flat that can go the distance without breaking the bank, Everlast is a great choice.
Madewell
Madewell’s flats are minimalist and affordable. I have their leather bowed ballet flats in black and get compliments every time I wear them. They go with everything! Madewell is my go-to brand for basic flats in classic colors.
I have the Frances Loafer in black and the Mackenna Skimmer in ivory. They’re simple but well made shoes. The leather is soft and forms to your feet over time. I like the elastic collar on the back that prevents heel slippage when walking.
Madewell flats range from $98-$138 so they’re very budget friendly. The style is subtle and timeless. You really can’t go wrong with a pair of Madewell flats as a wardrobe basic.
Sarah Flint
Sarah Flint’s flats are an investment, but so worth it for the Italian craftsmanship. The pointed toe and tortoiseshell heel are so chic. I love wearing them to the office.
I have three pairs of Sarah Flint flats – the Perfect Pointy Toe flat in black nappa, the Matilda flat in leopard calf hair, and the Grear flat in tortoiseshell. The nappa leather pair is my go-to for important meetings when I want to look sophisticated and pulled together.
They have a barely there silhouette that elongates your leg. I get compliments on them every time! The Matilda calf hair flats are a fun statement piece I love to pair with dresses on date night. And the Grear is my new favorite everyday flat with its unique tortoiseshell heel.
Sarah Flint shoes are extremely well constructed by artisans in Italy. They mold perfectly to your feet over time. The padding and arch support are amazing too. At $345-$395 per pair, they are certainly a splurge but so worth it!
Sam Edelman
Sam Edelman makes stylish flats at a range of price points. Their Felicia ballet flats are a favorite with a rounded toe and subtle hardware detail. I have them in multiple colors! I own the Felicia flats in black, nude, and a pretty blush pink shade.
They are my most worn flats thanks to their versatility. I can dress them up for work or wear them casually with jeans. The leather is very soft and comfortable. They mold to your feet perfectly over time with no blisters or rubbing.
The tiny hardware stud on the toe adds just a touch of edge. I also like the silhouette with the rounded vamp and toe.
It’s a timeless ballet flat that always looks polished. Sam Edelman flats range from $100-150 so they’re very reasonably priced. If you’re looking for one pair that can take you from work to weekend, Felicia is it!
Jack Rogers
Jack Rogers is known for their classic sandals, but their flats are great too. I’m obsessed with the Lauren laser cut pointed toe style. It makes any outfit feel instantly put together. The Lauren flat has the cutest perforated design on the toe. It adds visual interest while still being neutral enough for everyday.
I have them in both black and nude. They’re my go-to when I want to look a little dressier than basic ballet flats but not quite as dressy as a full heel. The pointed toe elongates my legs. Jack Rogers flats are well-made with good arch support and padded insoles.
They do run narrow so size up if you have wider feet. At $128-$148 they’re very reasonably priced for real leather shoes. The Lauren flat is perfect for elevating casual and business casual outfits alike.
Soludos
Soludos puts fun twists on espadrilles and flats. I have a black and white pair with fun pom poms that always get compliments. Their shoes are so affordable too! I love Soludos for playful flats that aren’t basic black.
I have the Smoking Slipper in a black and white colorblock which is so chic with dresses. The jacquard fabric upper hugs your foot comfortably. And the jute-wrapped sole adds nice texture. I also have the Pom Pom Mule in a pretty coral shade that looks fantastic with white jeans in summer.
The whimsical pom poms move with every step. Soludos has a amazing range of quirky patterns like photorealistic cactus and tropical floral designs.
Their flats are very lightweight and easy to pack for trips too. At just $45-$95, Soludos flats are super budget friendly. If you want flats that express your personality, Soludos are a great option.
Margaux
Margaux’s ballet flats have a barely-there minimalist design with a chic pointed toe. I love wearing their black leather pair to dress up jeans and a tee. Margaux makes lovely leather flats in both solid neutrals and two-tone color combos.
I have the Demi style in black, dove grey, and blush/black. The silhouette is feminine and elongating on the leg with the pointed toe. I get compliments whenever I wear them to the office. The stretchy topline hugs your foot comfortably.
And they have great arch support so my feet never ache, even after all-day wear. Margaux flats do run narrow, so size up if you have wider feet. They range from $215-$245 which is typical for high quality leather shoes. If you want an elegant, minimal flat, Margaux is a wonderful brand.
Lucky Brand
Lucky Brand’s Emmie flats have a flexible soft construction so they don’t need any break-in time. Their metallic leather pairs add shine to any outfit. Lucky Brand makes really comfortable, wearable flats with pretty embellishments.
I have the Emmie in classic black as well as a metallic gold leather pair that I love. The softness of the leather means they won’t rub or blister your feet. The Emmie runs true to size and has a lightweight flexible sole.
I also have a pair with a floral embroidery detail that looks so pretty with sundresses. Lucky Brand flats range from $59-$129 depending on the materials.
They often go on sale too! Their flats are great quality for being so affordably priced. If you want pretty flats that can be dressed up or down, Lucky Brand is a good option.
Franco Sarto
Franco Sarto combines European style with comfort technology in their flats. Their flats look tailored but feel like slippers. I can walk for miles in their pointy toe designs.
I swear Franco Sarto flats are as comfortable as sneakers! I have two pairs – the Habano pointy toe flat and the Farrah loafer. The supple leather and padded footbed make them so cushy. Both styles have a flexible sole so I don’t feel stiff when walking.
The pointed toe elongates my legs. And the loafers look so sleek with workwear. Franco Sarto flats range from $79-$139 which is a great value for real leather. If you want flats that look chic but feel like slippers, check out Franco Sarto.
Naturalizer
Naturalizer is known for comfort and their ballet flats deliver. I like the wide elastic collar and rounded toe. They come in extended sizes too which is great. I have two pairs of Naturalizer flats – the Flexy ballet flat in black and the Marianne loafer in nude.
The stretchy topline ensures a secure, non-slip fit. And the padded insole provides cushioning for all day wear. The simple clean design works for both casual and business casual outfits. I like that Naturalizer offers wide calf options as well as narrow and wide width sizing.
Their flats range from $59-$135 depending on materials, but often go on sale. For a super comfortable flat in both classic and extended sizing, Naturalizer is a great brand.
Clarks
Clarks Cloudsteppers flats have amazing arch support. I can wear them all day when traveling without any foot pain. They fold up nicely in my purse too. Clarks is my go-to brand for supportive, cushioned flats I can walk in for miles.
Their Cloudstepper collection uses lightweight materials and OrthoLite footbeds. I have two pairs – the Patty Tayna loafer and the Hope Roxanne skimmer. Both fold and pack easily so they’re perfect for trips. The arch support keeps my feet feeling great even after 8+ hours on my feet sightseeing.
I also like that many Cloudsteppers styles come in wide width options. They’re so roomy and comfy! Clarks flats range from $100-$130 but the quality and comfort is worth it. When I want flats with support, Cloudsteppers are my pick.
Kate Spade
Kate Spade makes adorably chic flats with feminine embellishments like bows, polka dots, and florals. Their designs instantly brighten up any outfit. I have the Daisy ballet flats in black polka dot and get compliments whenever I wear them.
The padded insole and flexible construction make them comfy for all day wear. Kate Spade flats come in both classic and fun novelty prints to match your personality. The Suedette bow skimmer has a ladylike feel with its velvety texture and oversized bow.
For weekends, I love the sparkly Brocade flat mule in vibrant pinks and purples. Kate Spade flats range from $100-$278 depending on the embellishments. But they often go on sale too. If you want playful flats that feel feminine and fun, you can’t go wrong with Kate Spade.
TOMS
TOMS is known for their slip on classics, but they also make cute ballet flats. I like the subtle TOMS flag on the back heel. Their flats have soft, cushiony insoles for comfort and come in canvas as well as leather.
I have a pair in their black floral tree jacquard that instantly dresses up basic jeans and a tee. TOMS also offers flats with fur linings for winter and nice wide width sizing. Their slip resistant rubber soles make them perfect for busy days on your feet running errands.
And they give back – TOMS donates a pair of shoes to a person in need for every pair purchased. Their flats range from $54-$129 depending on materials. For a comfortable flat that gives back, TOMS is a great ethical brand.
Louise et Cie
Louise et Cie makes handsome leather flats with sleek silhouettes. The square toe and loafer styles create a contemporary look.
I have the Finola loafer in black leather which instantly elevates casual outfits. The extra cushioning makes them so comfortable for long days on my feet. Louise et Cie flats use high quality Italian leathers so they mold perfectly to your feet over time.
The Ameretto pointed toe flat has a chic snake embossed texture. And the Rianna driving moc feels luxuriously soft. Louise et Cie flats range from $100-$150 so they’re reasonably priced for real leather. If you want flats with modern silhouettes and luxe materials, check out Louise et Cie.
Jessica Simpson
Jessica Simpson makes surprisingly comfortable and affordable flats. I’m obsessed with her Mandalaye ballet flats – they’re so soft and flexible right out of the box. The elastic topline ensures a perfect fit and prevents heel slippage when walking.
Jessica Simpson flats have cushioned insoles and come in many trendy patterns like animal prints, metallics, and florals.
The Fergie line has menswear inspired loafers that look sharp with workwear. And the Kissner booties are perfect transitional flats for fall. Jessica Simpson’s flats range from just $59-$98 which is a steal. If you want fun, fashionable flats on a budget, she has so many great options.
Seychelles
Seychelles makes boho inspired flats with pretty embroidery, tassels, pom poms, and laser cut designs. I love the texture and visual interest their embellishments add.
The Laser Cut ballet flat comes in a gorgeous rose gold metallic that gets so many compliments.
And the Tassel loafer mule has a handcrafted look with its woven upper. Seychelles flats range from $95-$150 and they’re very well made. The cushioned footbeds keep you comfy all day. If you want flats that are stylish but not boring basics, Seychelles is wonderful.
J.Crew
J.Crew makes preppy flats in classic silhouettes with fun seasonal patterns. Their leather ballet flats come in gingham, polka dot, floral, and animal prints that add personality.
I have a few pairs of their Etta flats – they’re perfect for casual Fridays at the office. The elasticized topline ensures a secure fit and they mold to your feet over time. J.Crew also offers loafers, smoking slippers, and Mary Janes.
Their flats range from $118-$148 which is reasonable for the quality. If you like flats with classic American style, J.Crew is a great brand for fun prints.
