I'm 51 and Always Wear Flat Shoes—I'll Never Retire These 7 Styles

We routinely turn to Tracey Lea Sayer, the 51-year-old fashion director at Fabulous, influencer and all-round industry expert for sartorial guidance. And while age should have nothing to do with your style choices (Sayer will certainly attest to this!), we’re always interested in her fashion viewpoint specifically given her experience over the years building a well-rounded wardrobe. Today, we wanted to gain further insight into some of the go-to shoe silhouettes she swears by. And while she wears a variety, there’s one key style she wears on repeat and will never retire. Yes, flat shoes, given their comfortable and versatile nature. Here she details exactly why that is

I am a huge flat shoe aficionado because, for me, comfort is key! I did all the killer heels between my 20s and 40s, and when I say heels… I mean heels! I wore everything from the Vivienne Westwood’s iconic elevated platforms (the ones Naomi Campbell fell over in—I was backstage when she went flying) to vintage ‘70s platforms when I was in my Deee-Lite disco era! Now, however, you will very rarely see me anything that elevates above the ground. I prefer footwear that is a little more low-fi, something that never dates and works hard in my wardrobe; flat-shoe classics with a modern edge that I can re-spin year after year.

Below, you’ll find the seven flat shoe styles I will never give up, complete with styling notes on how I like to style them most. And if you’re inspired in adding one of my must-have silhouettes into your repetoire as well, I've also rounded up chic styles to consider if you’re shopping at the moment. 

1. White Plimsoles

As soon as it gets a bit warmer I swap out my chunky trainers for a pair of simple white plimsoles. Inspired by designers like Margaret Howell and brands like Arket and Toast, I build a lot of my basics around this unassuming, classic style. They do give a nod to the nautical so I do tend to wear Breton stripes and casual cotton trousers with them, but they can equally dress down a kimono style summer frock. They are easy and effortless to pull off, and they don’t break the bank. 

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2. Lace-Up Sandals

Over the years I have realised that I crave the same styles each summer. For as long as I can remember I have drooled over the Ancient Greek Sandals on Net-A-Porter but could never get the style I wanted in my size! Then I found Tkees which does lots of shoestring, "barely there” sandals which I love. They look great with my silky column dresses and a really cute with a crisp white shirt and sarong skirt for work. The perfect footwear for summer or far-flung travels.

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3. Ballet Flats

Any fashion director who has spent 12+ hours straight on a photoshoot will tell you that ballet flats are a must-have. I love their practicality and comfort even though they have proved to be a total man-repeller in my house; my husband hates them! I like to experiment with chisel and pointed toe rather than the traditional round-toe-and-bow ballet flats, even though I do appreciate their cool French-girl vibes.

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4. Colourful Trainers

Okay, so I know we've already talked about classic white plimsoles but, as I'm sure many other flat-shoe obsessives will agree, especially those who put comfort above all else, one pair of trainers is never enough. I have always loved a colourful retro style trainer, especially for running around town on appointments. I get so many compliments on these New Balance; when I wear them they always put a smile on my face. That, IMO, is how you should always feel about your look.

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5. Dad Sandals

There is just something about the chunky ‘Dad’ style sandal that appeals to me. Maybe it is the "Gorpcore” nerdiness of them or maybe it is the fact that they are so damn comfy! Whatever it is they are my go-to dog walking sandals all summer long, but their brilliance doesn’t stop there! Dad sandals give a suit a cool edge and they stop flouncy dresses from looking to twee. IMO the original and the best are Tevas. 

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6. Leather Loafers

I have worn loafers for years, long before they became the popular flat shoe that they are today. I bought my first pair 30 years ago when I was a student. They were patent leather mock croc from Patrick Cox on Sloane Square. This forever-style flat is a real go-to for for me. This year I upgraded my traditional black ones and invested in a buttery soft white leather pair from COS. They immediately gave all my old high-street pieces a designer edge and I've loved wearing them with my Levis 501s '90s-cut; they made me feel like a 20-year-old again. 

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7. Thong Sandals

A few seasons ago I coveted The Row white thong sandals but at nearly £1000 there was no way they were ever going to be mine. Step forward good old M&S for the past two seasons they have done a very comfy, very designer looking version. This summer this chunky thong sandal has revolutionised everything in my wardrobe, from cotton co-ords to a fresh new way to make my wide-leg trousers work for work. Sold. Although they may become redundant in the British winter months, I keep them on standby for travelling for work. Then, they’re always the first thing I reach for come spring. 

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Next up, the biggest summer 2023 fashion trends to know.