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10 classic work flats to see you through your commute in style
Stylish, versatile, comfortable, these shoes will help you put your best foot forward in the workplace
Workwear has come a long way in recent years, with brands such as The Row, Jil Sander, Toteme and Khaite coming to the fore with their offering of minimalist, versatile pieces. Stiff, dull and bland 'office-appropriate' style has been replaced by modern silhouettes, luxe knitted fabrics and sharp yet feminine tailoring, so it's only right that our work flats should be on par.
So yes, that does mean it is time to throw out those clunky 'old reliable' work shoes in favour of something with a more flattering form. The perfect flat for the professional woman has to balance almost as many things as you do in a working day, from comfort to practicality and styling versatility. Ballet flats, loafers and Mary Janes are the very definition of great work shoes, with classic designs that complement everything from wide-leg trousers to midi dresses and structured jeans. There's also more modern iterations to consider, such as the controversial mesh flat, which we think deserves to be lauded as the unconventional workwear shoe of 2025.
Best Work Flats for Women 2025
When shopping for the perfect work-appropriate shoe, it's not just the design that warrants your attention. Pay attention to the material they are constructed with, as this will make or break the longevity of a shoe, especially one that's being put to work, so to speak; leather is a stellar option, moulding to the shape of your feet and allowing them to breathe. Suede is also a popular choice, but might be best suited to the summer months when they aren't likely to get sodden with rain.
Whether you're looking for a commute-friendly loafer or a Bazaar office-approved cult find, we've scoured the finest footwear to start your working day with a kick of confidence. Below, find our edit of the best work flats for all year round.
For work flats that pair with almost any outfit, a classic black ballerina pump is just the ticket. The sleek design of A.emery's Briot flat blends sophistication with practicality, featuring a slit opening and squared-off almond toe. The elasticated back is a welcome addition, especially for those days when your job has you easily covering 10,000 steps.
Chloé has manifested its signature understated femininity in this classic loafer, resulting in an elegant burgundy style that just begs to be paired with a tailored trouser, knitted dress or structured suit for a refined workwear look.
Manolo Blahnik's heels are a perennial classic, but aren't wholly practical for day-to-day office work, no matter how easy Carrie Bradshaw made it look. The latest flat style from the Italian shoemaker combines statement jewellery with nappa leather for a shoe designed with the intention of putting your best foot forward.
Tory Burch's pierced shoes have gained their own cult following, including in the Bazaar offices. We'd slip these shoes on for every possible occasion, and we're unapologetic in our commitment to wearing them to work. Granted, they're not your run-of-the-mill work flat, but they've yet to go a days wear without receiving a compliment.
Cos reigns supreme when it comes to affordable yet luxe-looking minimalist pieces, so naturally, its edited collection leaves you spoilt for choice when it comes to work-appropriate footwear. For a flat with an edge (metaphorically), this buckled ballet style offers something a little different, made from 100% leather and featuring a neat buckle with an almond-shape toe. This plummy burgundy shade is set to be our favourite for 2025.
If you've not yet wrapped your head around the mesh ballet flat, now might be the time to brave it. Celebrity-approved, the gauzy design helps to break up a corporate outfit with a bit of whimsy, while banking on one of 2024's biggest trends. We like to think of the mesh shoe as the ultimate office power move; just be sure you're ready for your colleagues to catch sight of your toes.
If it's a no-fuss, reliable yet stylish pair of work flats that you're after, Tod's loafers are an undeniable classic. The black patent leather finish (note, we appreciate that it's not too glossy) and chunky soles of this design make for a timeless style that offers versatility in and out of the office. Our tip? A pair of white ankle socks will go a long way when styling these.
These two-tone ballet flats offer a neutral option if you're tiring of an all-black footwear collection, while remaining sophisticated enough for the office with just a touch of vintage appeal. Practical, yes, but boring these are not; the smooth leather finish and pleasing cut will have you walking around the office just so others can gaze at your shoes in adoration.
When the weather permits — and you aren't at risk of contracting trench foot on your morning commute — a pair of backless mules are by far one of the most elegant styles for work. Bobbies' Emy mule loafers are the epitome of low-key luxury, with a soft mocha-hued finish and gold horsebit detailing. An added bonus? They're much easier to secretly slip off under the desk.
These leather flats are the epitome of effortless style. The discreet design has a touch of old-school sophistication about it, and worn with a cropped trouser or midi dress, they present the appearance of someone with a meticulous eye for style and attention to detail.
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