Our Favorite Fall Ballet Flats, Loafers, and Mary Janes

Fashion is shifting away from chunky, oversized shoes, and we’re seeing a resurgence of timeless silhouettes like ballet flats, loafers, and Mary Janes. These classic shoes have evolved over the past century, proving their enduring appeal. Beyond aesthetics, their lack of heels makes them especially appealing for comfort seekers — there’s nothing better than stylish shoes that won’t hurt your feet! With so many flats to choose from, narrowing down the best options can be overwhelming, so I’ve done the work for you and compiled a list of the top picks to add to your wardrobe. Your ankles will thank you later.

_{Prices are accurate as of October 28, 2024. Subject to change.}

ASOS Lou Velvet Mary Janes

As we enter fall and winter, velvet becomes a staple texture in many people’s wardrobes from head to toe. This red velvet Mary Jane is a versatile shoe for the holidays and cooler months and proves you don’t have to spend a fortune on fun styles. They can be worn to work for a touch of festive fun or with an LBD as a pop of color. Go sockless in the early fall or pair with tights or stockings to complete the cozy, seasonal look.

Sam Edelman Michaela Mary Janes

If you’re looking for a truly classic and timeless black Mary Jane, look no further. This silhouette is the pinnacle of a Mary Jane flat. The genuine leather makes this shoe feel as good as it looks, if not better. Wear it with socks, jeans, tights, or a skirt — this is a basic you will have for your whole life. 

G.H. Bass Whitney Weejuns Loafers

Speaking of classic and timeless pieces, if you’re looking for a real deal penny loafer, this is the one. GH Bass is the OG for penny loafers and the quality is immediately apparent. My mom has had hers since the 80s and I’ve had a pair for nearly a decade — they still have their original sheen and no scuffs. They are comfortable, stylish, and make any outfit look put together. 

Quince Italian Suede Penny Loafers

There’s a reason Elvis wrote about his suede shoes! Suede is a beautiful material that can elevate any simple shoe and like velvet, winter is the perfect time to show it off. These penny loafers from Quince are an excellent selection of footwear that is a culmination of some of the hottest trends of the season. They’re pointed-toe, but not overly so if your taste falls somewhere in the middle of pointed and round. Plus, the Italian suede feels luxurious inside and out. Quince is known for offering high-end products at a more reasonable price so you can play with different styles this season.

Zara Mesh Bow Ballet Flats

Mesh is an underrated material when it comes to shoes. It’s breathable and when done well, adds subtle and interesting texture. Zara gets it right with these delicate bow mesh ballet flats that give both a feminine and structured feeling. They can act as a subdued accent piece for an outfit and can be dressed up or down. 

Afeetsing Round Toe Ballet Flats

When trends repeat themselves, it’s usually because it’s genuinely fashionable and ageless. Simple and elegantly designed ballet flats, like this affordable pair from AFEETSING, are a classic for a reason. They are comfortable, go with everything, and make every outfit look put together. They’re a staple that you should never get rid of.

Mix No. 6 Sybel Flat

Maybe the more traditional look of a ballet flat is not for you. Fear not! There are plenty of fun and edgy options including this Mix No. 6 Sybel Flat. The grommet details make these pointy-toed shoes a real statement piece that is rocker chic. Pair them with a leather jacket for a bold and stylish outfit. Fall weather is notoriously unpredictable. The open top and back design of these Sybel flats will get you through the ever-changing weather worn alone or paired with socks or tights.

Rothy’s The Point Slip-On Shoes

If you’re looking for a workhorse pair of shoes that can be worn every day with anything, these Rothy’s pointed-toe flats are just that. Rothy’s are revered by their owners because not only are they made from recycled plastic bottles, but they’re genuinely comfortable, machine washable, and durable. They should outlast many fashion cycles — and when they do finally start to wear, the brand will take them back and recycle them (and you get $20 to spend on more shoes). This is a great choice for daily work and running errands and if you don’t love the pointed-toe, the brand has several other shapes to choose from. 

Sam Edelman Loraine Bit Loafers

Sam Edelman’s Loraine Bit is the perfect loafer and an effortlessly chic shoe to round out this list. If you’re a fan of dark academia, old money, or coastal grandma aesthetics, this shoe works well with all of them. It is a staple in my wardrobe because it can take a plain white T-shirt and a pair of jeans to the next level. I like the black leather for a more universal shoe to elevate any outfit, but the Loraine Bit comes in different colors and patterns of leather and patent leather, calf hair, and fabrics for whatever calls to your personal style.

Steve Madden Silver Mary Janes

When I came across these silver Steve Madden Alisah Mary Jane flats, I knew I had to include them on this list. They’re the perfect shoes for holidays, but work for celebrations all year round. Silver is such a joyful way to add some glitz and glam to an ensemble without overpowering other articles of clothing. 

Dr. Martens Polley Smooth Leather Mary Janes

Just because trends change doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorites. If you love a chunkier silhouette of shoe, the Dr. Martens Polley Smooth Leather Mary Janes are a perfect nod to ’90s fashion trends with a modern twist. Their sturdy leather and chunky sole blend retro style with durability— something that Daria Morgendorffer would definitely approve of.

Feature Image Credit: SteveCash/ E+ via Getty Images