If you are looking for shoes to wear with dresses but can’t or don’t want to wear heels, flats are an option. But you have to find a pair that is dressy enough for your occasion.
Choose the Right Size
While it’s tempting to rely on your shoe size as your go-to when buying shoes, remember that sizing can vary between brands and even within a single brand. Referring to the specific shoe’s size chart is the best way to determine what size to purchase.
Try the shoes on and make sure you can wiggle your toes. There shouldn’t be a lot of extra space in the shoes, but neither should your toes feel squashed. It’s also important to check for heel grip. The back counter should grip your heel and not slip as you walk or run in the shoes.
It’s a good idea to shop for shoes in the afternoon when your feet are at their largest. It will ensure that your feet are comfortable all day and not just when you’re wearing the shoes.
When deciding what size to buy, consider that a whole size difference is only about half an inch and that shoe width increases as your foot gets larger. So, if you’re in between sizes, choosing the bigger size will give you a little more wiggle room in both length and width. It is especially important for dressy flats since you want them to fit comfortably and not be too tight. It will prevent your feet from becoming irritated by the shoes and will allow them to move freely when you’re walking or running in them.
Measure Your Feet
It’s recommended that you take this measurement with the socks, nylons, or hosiery that you will normally wear while wearing dress shoes. It’s also a good idea to have someone else do it so that you can be sure the lines are drawn accurately on both sides of your foot. Also, try to do it later in the day, as your feet tend to swell over the day.
To find your foot length, you can use a ruler or tape measure to mark where the outer tip of your longest toe extends. You can also use a book to get the foot width by lining up your foot with the edge of the book, making sure it’s touching all the way around. Generally, a shoe should be about 0.6 inches longer than your foot or 1.5 centimetres. If you end up with a slightly smaller shoe, don’t worry. The difference between whole and half sizes is typically very small, and a shoe with more length will be more comfortable than one that’s too short. However, it’s important to choose a shoe that won’t be too loose.
Think About Your Style
Incorporating flat shoes into your wardrobe doesn’t mean sacrificing style. Today, there are countless styles of women’s flat shoes that will complement almost any outfit. When selecting flats for a formal occasion, choose a classic pair that will look professional and elegant. Avoid pairs with rounded toes or excessive embellishments, as they can look frumpy and less polished. Instead, opt for flats that have a pointed toe or delicate bow detail that will add a feminine touch to your outfit.
For a casual lunch date with friends, consider a pair of womens formal flat shoes in a fun print or colour that will add a playful element to your outfit. For example, a pair of leopard-print flats can add a trendy and eye-catching touch to your outfit when worn with a pair of skinny jeans and a flowy blouse. Be sure to choose a pair of flats that will be comfortable enough to wear for an extended amount of time, and that will not distract you from a conversation or a meal.