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The best flats for work should excel in form and function—and fashion, too, of course. Think perfectly polished pairs that can take you from early-morning commutes and midday coffee runs to after-hours plans without missing a beat. With January almost in the rearview mirror, consider this your reminder to take stock of your footwear essentials, and the flats that work the hardest throughout the year: a classic penny loafer, a basic black ballet flat, and—if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous—a playful printed pick.
Vogue’s Favorite Work Flats:
With your starting lineup assembled, styling your shoe is next—and that’s where we come in. Work outfit inspiration abounds at Vogue HQ, where editors put together daily looks that range from corporate-chic to casual-cool. Keeping ease and versatility for the work day in mind, the outfits assembled below not only come with the editor seal of approval, but they’re built for any modern woman navigating her own nine-to-five.
Whether you go for strappy black flats with a printed midi dress and suede blazer, or are drawn to a zebra-print ballerina to add youthful energy to grey trousers, consider this your shortcut to streamlined office style—and, yes, a few coveting glances from your coworkers. Ahead, the eight best flats for work, plus exactly how to wear them.
The Sleek Slingback
For a formula that works in any office setting, anchor a work-ready navy suit with Quince’s sleek off-white slingbacks, then add Róhe’s draped satin blouse—its voluminous turtleneck peeking out just so.
The Black Ballet Flat
Few shoes are as classic—or as wearable—as the black ballet flat. Mango’s pair, for example, looks elegantly understated without the designer price tag. Style them with Zara’s funnel-neck leather jacket and Róhe’s pleated khaki midiskirt, then finish with Toteme’s croc-embellished tote for an outfit that goes from board meetings to cocktail hour.
The Backless Loafer
Like your go-to penny loafer, only cooler. Gucci’s backless Princeton loafers are a cult favorite for good reason: versatile, comfortable, and supremely chic. Wear them with Toteme’s leopard-print coat, Ossou’s dark-wash denim, and Frame’s bright blue button-up for a look that’s office-ready and beyond. And yes—jeans absolutely belong at work, especially when styled like this.
The Classic Penny Loafer
Some items are best borrowed from the boys—and Aeyde’s soft-toe penny loafers prove the point and then some. Give them a feminine twist with Kallmeyer’s button-up lady jacket and Zara’s grey-mélange knit midiskirt, then finish with Johnstons of Elgin’s camel cashmere socks for a chic, collegiate touch.
The Playful Pick
Who says a late-January Tuesday look has to be boring? Embrace your inner maximalist with Loeffler Randall’s zebra-print ballet flats, The Frankie Shop’s burgundy-and-white striped button-up, and Zara’s sleek gray slacks. A khaki tie adds a quirky touch, and a subtle nod to menswear.
The Derby
Add some welcome edge to your work wardrobe with a stompy Derby shoe (or two). The style dominated the FW25 runways—from Miu Miu to Cos—and The Row’s burgundy lace-ups are a standout pair. Wear them with Daughter’s soft gray V-neck sweater, Buck Mason’s crisp white tee, and Veronica de Piante’s sleek leather midiskirt. Your promotion based on chicness alone will be more than warranted.
The Mary Jane
Like the black ballet flat, Mary Janes are just as essential for work. Sweet, smart, and effortlessly stylish, Malone Souliers’s strappy pair gives off an artful flourish. Elevate them with Proenza Schouler’s modern midi dress and Nour Hammour’s suede blazer, finished with The Row’s top-stitched Park tote—roomy, refined, and perfectly practical for office hours.
The Glove Shoe
Some shoes are timeless; others feel entirely of-the-moment. For late winter 2026, glove shoes are topping the wish lists (and carts) of fashion’s coolest set—Vogue editors included. Try Khaite’s slouchy black pair with Loulou de Saison’s satin pencil skirt, Comme Si’s button-up for the perfect pop of red, and J.Crew’s sheer white turtleneck for elevated layering. Finish with a perfectly worn-in leather jacket—think Nour Hammour or Aflalo—to take it to the next level.
