While, in my books, December is normally earmarked as the season of stilettos, this time around I’m taking my cues from Sarah Jessica Parker and French women, and slipping into a chicer—and far more comfortable—pair of T-bar flats instead.
Stepping out in New York this week, Sarah Jessica elevated her knee-skimming skirt and warm grey knit with the flat shoe trend I’ve only spotted in the wardrobe of French women before.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Even without the lift of a heel, T-bar flats retain a natural sophistication. The delicate strap that traces the top of the foot adds poise, delivering a graceful, elongated look without any of the discomfort.
Long beloved by the most stylish French women I know, the T-bar brings a wearable, subtly preppy edge to their everyday uniforms—whether that’s a pleated skirt, straight-leg jeans or a tailored trouser.
And perhaps part of the charm lies in the nostalgia, as the silhouette it recalls the polished school-day shoes many of us once wore.
If, like me, you’re tempted to trade towering heels for a more grounded, but no less elegant, option this season, keep scrolling. Below, I’ve curated the best T-bar flats to wear right now.
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T-Bar Leather Ballet Flats
Style with socks to give your look a preppy finish.
Boden
Round Toe T-Bar Flats-Green Patent
Add a pop of colour to your winter rotation.
Tommy Hilfiger
Leather Double T-Bar Ballerinas
While I love these in the classic black, they also come in beige and red.
Asos Design
Latham Mary Jane Ballets
The patent leather finish gives these shoes such a sleek edge.
The Row
Square T-Strap Leather Flats
Wear this with a swishy skirt or style it up with jeans.
Toteme
T-Strap Suede Point-Toe Flats
While I love these in the black, they also come in a rich shade of chocolate brown.
Chloé
Leather Ballerina Shoes
Be quick! These are on their way to selling out.
Tory Burch
Cap-Toe T-Strap Ballet
Shop these while they’re on sale.
