The Style Debate: Fancy Flats Vs. Party Heels
Are you a firm believer that flat shoes can still pack a punch at parties? Or are you rarely seen out in less than two inches of heel? Here, two NET-A-PORTER style experts make a case for the effortless cool of fancy flats and the timeless polish of a party heel, while sharing their top styling tips
Lydia Zacharis, buying manager, on her enduring love of fancy flats
What do you love most about wearing flats over the festive season? I find smart flats extremely elegant for occasions – they’re a simple, relaxed and sometimes unexpected option that helps ground an outfit. Plus, practicality and being able to walk around or dance the evening away is important to me. Wearing flats means that I don’t need to think about bringing a second pair of shoes just in case I need to change into something more comfortable.
What details, styles and silhouettes do you seek out to make sure they’re party-appropriate? Ever since my ballet days, I’ve had a soft spot for ballet flats, so I’m very often spotted wearing them. I seek out almond or pointed-toe flats for more formal events, with the emphasis being on a dark color – usually black or a regal tone such as burgundy – or metallics. As for the material, satin, velvet or brocade all give depth to a flat shoe and make up for the lack of heel.
Are there any new flat-shoe trends that you love? Ballet flats and Mary Janes have been trending for a few seasons now, so we are still in the era of chic flats. What I’ve loved this season specifically is the increased variety in materials and textures – calf hair, for example, can look very sophisticated – and details such as grosgrain bows have a nostalgic, old-world glamour to them.
Which outfits go best with party flats? Many! From a mini skirt or dress with opaque black tights to a fluid silk slip dress or a more structured, strapless midi dress – flats counterbalance the femininity of those outfits.
Which NET-A-PORTER brands do you turn to for elevated flats? There are several brands that have strong options for party flats. My go-tos are Manolo Blahnik, The Row, Gianvito Rossi, Jimmy Choo, Toteme and Aeyde.
Can you recall a memorable time that you were grateful you wore flats to a party? Last year, I went to Venice for a friend’s birthday. My choice of flats allowed me to roam the cobblestoned streets of the city (there’s no alternative, other than taking the vaporettos) – and I was able to get to Harry’s Bar and our post-dinner party gracefully.
Abbi Minchin, buying editor, on why heels are her power piece
Do you have a signature heel height or style for parties, events and festive nights out? I’m relatively tall and always prioritise comfort, so I am a low or kitten heel kind of girl. Barely-there sandals are a style I come back to season after season. They’re delicate yet glamorous, and extremely versatile – the freezing toes are worth it! Alternatively, I love a knee-high boot. They’re a much more practical alternative, but are sexy nonetheless.
In what way does wearing heels complete an outfit? For me, adding heels to an outfit is the finishing touch. It’s a very easy way to make your look seem well thought out.
Are there any specific high-heel trends that you’re excited about this season? The heel is officially back! After seasons of flats dominating, heels have taken back the reigns. Power pumps were the shoes of the season for fall/winter ’25, and we have seen this continue with pre-collections from Saint Laurent. If there is one shoe style you should purchase this season, it’s a pair of pumps. We’ve also seen animal print consistently woven through the collections – across boots, heels and flats – as well as tactile textures such as calf hair and croc. What I particularly love about this trend is that it is an accessible way to elevate and add interest to your outfit – even if you’re a minimalist.
Heels are often considered a ‘power piece’ that boosts confidence. Is this something you experience when wearing heels? Definitely. Heels make you walk taller – both literally and figuratively. I find that I always opt for heels when I’m going into an environment where I want to feel confident, whether it’s an important meeting, a social occasion or a date. No matter what I wear my heels with, they always do the trick!
What kind of outfits look best with a heel? Practically speaking, heels elongate the body, so I find the best outfits to pair them with are usually those with a slimmer silhouette. A long-line dress or straight-leg jeans would be my choice.
Which NET-A-PORTER brands do you turn to for great heels? Khaite and The Row are my fail-safe brands for any shoe, particularly barely-there sandals. If you are more of a pump girl (in line with this season’s trend), then look to Jimmy Choo.