The best flat shoe styles

Life's too short to wear uncomfy shoes. Try these chic flat styles for the office, after work drinks and everywhere in between.

Statement flats and comfy sneakers

For ultra comfortable shoes head to Bared Footwear. A podiatrist created the brand to ensure good alignment and soft cushioning were a top priority. These trending ballet flats in shiny red are the perfect contrast to the autumnal tones of the season. And yes, you can walk all day in them. Prefer a comfy sneaker? Pick up a pair from Bared's 90's-inspired Amakihi line for a comfy yet elevated casual look.

Slip-on hybrid sneaker boots

Head to Radical Yes to join the flat shoe revolution. The black neoprene Tokyo is part boot, part sneaker. It's easy to pull on, with fun hiking cord details. The trainer sole means you can run around all day – blister free. Head to the North Melbourne store for more iconic flats, sneakers and loafers.

Tabi dupes

Get the toe-splitting style with a pair of air rifts from Above the Clouds. Nike's take on the trend skews more rugged streetwear than Tabis. Think plush foam soles, rugged tread and velcro straps. They are designed to be ultra-lightweight and feel like you're walking barefoot.

Sneaker-inspired ballet flats

The shoe of the season took us all by surprise. The lace-up ballet flats are part sporty, part sweet. Find them at Ganni in Emporium to get that Scandi-chic look without leaving Melbourne. Dip your toe in double denim, cinch up the laces in classic black or make a statement with leopard print.

Minimalist sneakers

What's so great about neutral sneakers? Well for starters, they go with just about everything. This suede New Balance pair is '70s inspired, with durable cushioning for everyday wear. It's a nod to the cult-status Miu Miu collab, at a fraction of the price. Find it alongside heaps of other streetwear kicks at Up There on Flinders Lane.

Ballet flats for the modern era

Say goodbye to those little bows for good. Today's ballet flat is chic, minimal and comfy enough to get you from dusk to dawn. We rate the Casi Myra from Camper, made from leather and recycled materials. Try St Agni's scrunchie style, available at Incu. For more sporty styles, Adidas' mei ballet range is inspired by a rare early 2000s silhouette.

Ergonomic suede Birks

Step into comfort with the gold standard of slip-on slides. The Birkenstock Bostons are a best-seller for a reason. Made from 100% natural suede and supported by an ergonomic cork footbed. Find them in-store at Incu. Bit chilly to bare your heels? Laneway boutique Kinki Gerlinki has fun socks in bright colours to keep you warm.

Rainbow gumboots and clogs

You don't have to settle for boring black gummies. Get rainy day ready and stomp in every puddle with a pair of Merry People shoes. The range of comfy clogs and gumboots come in a huge range of colours. The signature is the Bobbi ankle boot. It's 100% waterproof and has built-in arch support. Or for an easy slip-on door shoe, try the Billie clog.

Melbourne cult-classics and new faves

If there was a brand that screamed Melbourne style, it might be Dr. Martens. Opt for a pair of the Doc originals. Made with smooth durable leather and a look that goes with everything. Or elevate your look (literally) with the Jadon III Arcadia's in a deep cherry red. The platform boots have a revamped design with a high-shine leather that naturally patinas. Find them at Melbourne Central.

Platform loafers

Bring a little height without the heel in these chunky soled loafers. ELK's platform Tirstta style come in dark green or navy with a thick sole for all-day comfort. Made from buttery soft leather and sporting a fun zig zag detail, they can dress up a pair of jeans or give a pop of colour to your fave autumn fit.