From lace-up ballet flats to studded Mary Janes.
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If you've been keeping up with the latest shoe trends, you know that ballet flats have taken over the fashion world and show absolutely no sign of slowing down anytime soon. From the Miu Miu ballerina flats that helped spearhead the revival (and quickly took over our IG feeds) to new, updated versions from a long list of designers, flats are back, baby! And let's face it, they're a timeless staple thanks to their effortlessly chic silhouette, incredible versatility, and comfort.
Flats may be easy to wear and style, and there's nothing more versatile than classic black flats, but finding flats that are *actually* comfortable? It's surprisingly way harder than you'd think. Though they may be...well, flat, that doesn't automatically mean they're going to be comfy. And if you've ever suffered from flats-induced blisters or pain, you know exactly what I mean. But don't worry, for the sake of you and your feet, I tested some of the best black flats out there—from loafers to ballet flats to Mary Janes—to find the most comfortable pairs to buy now. Keep reading for my personal reviews (yes, I put them all to the test!) of brands like Tony Bianco, Steve Madden, Rothy's, and Everlane below.
The black flats that made this list check all the boxes when it comes to versatility, comfort, and of course, style. Oh, and P.S. You can never have too many black flats—especially when they all have something a lil unique, like the styles below.
There's a reason (actually several) that everyone is obsessed with Everlane's Day Glove flats. First off, they're made with soft, buttery leather that molds to your foot for incredible comfort and a more customized fit. But even better, they're also designed with several features that offer even more comfortable wear, like a pull tab that makes them easy to pull on and off, side vents so your feet don't get sweaty, and a durable rubber sole that's cushioned for added support that most flats lack. Need I say more?
THE REVIEW: "This is the fourth pair of Day Gloves I’ve bought. I love them all. I have bunions on both feet and what they say in the description is absolutely true—they mold to your feet and I’ve never had a bit of pain. I’m so grateful Everlane keeps making these wonderful shoes!"
I'm willing to bet your TikTok/IG/social media feeds have been filled with these viral flats. They're dubbed as the most comfy flats on the market, and I'm happy to confirm those claims. Made with a super flexible knit design, these pointed flats require zero break-in period and are 100% machine washable, so they'll look as good as new after several wears. And, as a bonus, they're sustainably made using recycled plastic bottles.
THE REVIEW: "I purchased these as a Christmas gift for my daughter. She absolutely loves them and has already given me a 'wish list' for more in the future. She raves that they are stylish and comfortable!"
Amazon comes in clutch yet again with these classic black ballet flats that legit cost $16. But don't be fooled by the price—they actually look and feel like they cost a lot more. The arch insole supports your feet, and the heel cushion prevents you from getting any blisters—as many of the reviewers attest. The best part? If your feet get sweaty, the lining is absorptive. And, c'mon, how cute is that lil bow?
THE REVIEW: "I just got these today and already noticed how comfortable they are on my feet. Fit me perfectly ordering my regular size. Quality is good and compares well to my other flats that cost $75+. I think I will be ordering more."
If you're really trying to embrace the ballet flat trend, why not go all out with these adorable lace-up flats from J.Crew? I love that I can change them up by tying the laces into bows, a different style, or even removing them altogether. Throw on an LBD, add a blazer, and pop on these bbs, and you've got yourself the cutest look ever.
THE REVIEW: "Stunning...a former ballerina, these are so nostalgic and sweet..."
Spring will be springin' quicker than we know, and if you're not one for the whole socks-with-flats trend, your feet might get sweaty when the weather heats up. The solution? These adorable leather floral cutout flats that have the cutest buckle detailing.
If you prefer flats with a lil edge, check out these pointed slingbacks from Steve Madden. The cool hardware is the perfect touch to the silver trend we're seeing everywhere rn, and the tiny block heel adds a touch of elevation to the flat. Oh, and if you really wanna spice it up, try the red, white, or snake patent leather versions.
THE REVIEW: "True to size! Great shoe, padded footbed, is quite comfortable. Love the style."
I think these Tony Bianco rhinestone flats may have my heart. I mean, anything that is bedazzled does, but these black flats just take it to a whole other level. The diamante detailing looks so luxe on the black suede exterior, and the simple glove design of the actual flat makes it super easy to pair them with any outfit to add a little elevated touch.
If you're not down for full-on sparkle or studs, these leather ballet flats have subtle studs for just a *hint* of edge without overdoing it. Oh, and I find that they get even comfier with wear, as the leather forms to your foot.
THE REVIEW: "I wore these for 6 hours on New Year's Eve and was extremely happy with them. Super comfortable - I was able to do multiple ceilidh dances—at times as intense as an aerobics class!—then walk back 2 miles to where I was staying."
Ask all the Cosmo editors what their favorite flats are, and I guarantee more than half of them will mention a pair from Birdies. Why, you may ask? The incredibly comfortable seven-layered cloud-like footbeds in every pair. Oh, and not to mention, they're really stinkin' chic.
THE REVIEW: "I bought these on a whim and half expected to return them. I’m happy to report no return necessary - they are my new favorites. The look is sophisticated casual while being super comfy. I highly recommend!"
Okay, so funny story: I was in a thrift store and I found a super discounted pair of penny loafers. I ended up wearing them to a family event and my grandpa knew immediately that they were the G.H.Bass loafers he wore as a kid. Since then, they've been my go-to shoe, and I swear no one has yet to make a loafer as classic and comfortable as this one. They're the original, after all.
THE REVIEW: Absolutely love these loafers! I had black Weejuns back in high school. I am thrilled with the comeback. Just bought them in black again. The quality is fantastic. They are comfortable with or without socks. They’re great with long skirts, jeans, and wide-legged pants."
Elsa Hosk—the queen of some of the coolest lewks—dropped her namesake(ish) brand, Helsa, and I think I'm obsessed with everything in the collection, including these scrunched black flats. The crinkle patent leather is ev-ery-thing, the top buckle closure adds a fun touch, and the almond toe is oh-so chic. This take on a ballerina flat is something I would absolutely splurge on for an elevated look.
THE REVIEWS: "Got so many compliments wearing these flats:)" one tester writes. "Quality is superb! Feels expensive," adds another.
Everyone needs a pair of ~luxe~ slippers to walk around the house, run the occasional errands in, or even dress up. These velvet beauties by Mar Soreli are my favorite ever—they're handmade in Italy so you can truly see the craftsmanship that goes into every pair. Plus, they're as comfortable as they look. If you want a pair that has a more classic flat design, check out Mar Soreli's Mary Jane collection.
THE REVIEW: "I love your shoes. The colors are beautiful and so much fun to wear. Great quality and everyone asks where I got them!"
Cosmo’s team of digital fashion experts have decades of combined experience in the industry. They spot relevant trends on the runway before they even hit your TikTok FYP or Insta Explore Page and conduct research across retailers of all kinds—testing many brands IRL—to bring you the best clothing and accessory picks for every season. Basically, we’ve curated the internet to bring you the chicest options like it’s our job (because it is, heh).
Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes products for all sizes. These comfortable loafers were chosen based on style, functionality, testability, price point, and so many reviews to put together this shoppable list of the very best for you!
Siena Gagliano is the associate editor at Cosmopolitan, where she primarily covers beauty, fashion, travel, and lifestyle. Wanna know how to get the best brows of your life? Gotchu. What about how to find the best fashion deals of the season, the softest sheets on the market, or exactly how to use retinol without irritating your skin? Check, check, and check. Before joining Cosmopolitan, Siena was a writer at Bustle and several other media outlets. As her 2024 goal, she has vowed to find the best (extra) dirty martini NYC has to offer—and yes, that means ~attempting~ to try every cute cocktail spot in the city (hit her up with some recs, pls). Follow Siena on Instagram for a behind-the-scenes look at that magazine life.
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