Winter is here, which means it’s time to break out the boots and sneakers to pair with every outfit. But you don’t have to instantly turn to heavy, closed-in shoes just because it’s cooler out. There are so many cute trans-seasonal flats you can choose from that’ll elevate your outfits while keeping your tootsies warm.
First, you’ve got ballet flats. They’re a modern-day take on actual ballet shoes, only more durable and made for day-to-day wear.
Loafers are another winter staple that are worth investing in if you want a change from boots. They still offer that chunkier, edgy look, only with a little prep. We like to think of them as a grown-up school shoe.
If you prefer something a little easier to just slide on into, try clogs. They’ve come a long way from the ones you’re picturing in your head right now. Trust us. You can choose between something practical and durable like Crocs (yes, we said Crocs, they’re fashionable now BTW) or something a little more elevated like Ganni’s slingback clogs.
For those who can’t quite get behind clogs yet, try a pair of mules. We like to think of mules as clogs’ more sophisticated, Parisian-born cousin. They’re much, much more stylish and dress up a look without having to go as far as popping on a heel.
Naturally, Mary Janes are next on our list. They’re another winter staple that deserves a place in your wardrobe. They’re a style of ballet flat only, often made to be a little chunkier and sturdier.
15 Of The Best Flats For Winter in 2026
From lace-up ballet flats to chunky loafers, we’ve found something for everyone’s style and budget right here.
Best ballet flats
Tony Bianco Bambi Black Venice Ballet Flats
Why we love them: We’re obsessed with Tony Bianco’s Bambi Ballet Flats. They’re a cute take on a traditional Mary Jane with a square toe and thin strap. This classic style effortlessly elevates your look without being too much for everyday wear.
Shop Tony Bianco, $179.95
Alternative ballet flats recommendations:
- Designer Ballet Flats: AEYDE Uma Leather Mary Jane Ballet Flats, $570
- Affordable Ballet Flats Under $100: Ravella Romy Ballet Flats, $79.95
Best loafers
Coach Lucy Loafer
Why we love it: If you’re not across Coach’s online outlet, allow me to put you on to what might be one of the best designer outlets to exist. Coach Outlet ALWAYS has incredible deals to shop if you can’t afford the brand full price Take these chunky loafers for example. There’s only a few sizes left, so if yours is available, I would grab it ASAP.
Shop Coach, $238.80 (usually $398)Alternative loafers recommendations:
- Designer Loafers: Saint Laurent Le Loafer Embellished Suede Loafers, $1,950
- Affordable Loafers Under $100: ASOS Design Milan Chunky Chain Detail Loafers, $63
Best clogs
Mollini Mykla Mo
Why we love it: The Mollini Mykla Mo (now say that three times fast) is such an easy year-round shoe. You can slide them on in summer or pair them with some cute scrunch socks in winter. And the slingback means they won’t slip off!
Shop Mollini, $199.95
Alternative clogs recommendations:
- Designer Clogs: Ganni Buckle Clogs, $437.50 (usually $839)
- Affordable Clogs Under $100: Crocs Classic Clogs, $63.99 (usually $79.99)
Best mules
Puma Speedcat Mule Women’s Sneakers
Why we love it: Puma has converted its viral Speedcat ballet flats into a slip-on mule, and we’re utterly obsessed. They’re affordable and equally as comfortable as the OG design, and have strap detailing that doubles as practical and aesthetic, preventing your shoes from slipping off.
Shop Puma, $160Alternative mules recommendations:
- Designer Mules: The Row June Satin Mules, $1,000
- Affordable Mules Under $100: Windsor Smith Dree Mules, $99.95
Best Mary Janes
Dr Marten Mary Jane 8065 Shoe
Why we love it: Mary Janes are such an easy way to jazz up any outfit and avoid boots/heels. Our advice would be to opt for a Mary Jane with a little more personality than plain flats — like these double buckle ones from Dr Martens. Plus, this brand is durable AF, so you know you’ll have them for years to come.
Shop Dr Martens, $230.99 (usually $329.99)
Alternative Mary Janes recommendations:
- Designer Mary Janes: Birkenstock 1774 + SFTM Paris Calf Hair Mary Jane Pumps, $505
- Affordable Mary Janes Under $100: Raboesy Adjustable Strap Tabi Mary Janes, $74
Do you need a new trench coat to match your new flats? We’ve got a running list of the best ones for every style here.
Image Credit: Dr Martens / PUMA / Pinterest
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