Princess Kate makes 'fancy flat' shoes the best alternative to sky-high heels

Back in 2022, Kate headed to the Commonwealth Games, wearing a pristine white wool Alexander McQueen suit, and completed her outfit with the timeless slingback shoes by Camilla Elphick, which were adorned with an oversized buckle. Celebrity stylist and brand ambassador for shoe retailer Deichmann, Ellis Ranson tells HELLO!: "A flat slingback is an elegant option to team with dresses or trousers. I love that Kate always looks for interesting details, too, such as the pearl buckle."

Kate wore these shoes again that year, at a charity polo match at Guards Polo Club in Windsor. The royal was dressed immaculately for the occasion, donning an elegant white frock - the past season £1,350 Emilia Wickstead 'Denvella' dress, and her slingback flats, which made the outfit even more chic. "These shoes are also amazing as the nude tone lengthens the leg and with the contrast of the black, shortens the foot," Ellis remarks.

In 2023, Princess Kate was attending an engagement at a sensory play centre in Kent, wearing a smart red blazer with gold buttons courtesy of Zara, cropped, fitted trousers, and a neutral tee underneath. Fashion fans loved her pointed suede black flat shoes by Boden. Ellis says, "Kate's black flats are a timeless style that will never really go out of style. The buckle makes the shoe a statement without having to accessorise too much. These will be a wardrobe staple for years to come."

In September, the Princess looked fabulous at the Natural History Museum with husband Prince William, rocking a pair of Pretty Ballerina loafers in cognac brown. She teamed the statement style with a Ralph Lauren blazer and black cropped dress trousers. The flats are a modern take on the ballerina flat - but more discreet. "The Kate effect has brought flats to our attention," muses Ellis. "As a stylist, I wasn’t expecting the return of the ballet flat, but now I’m teaming them with everything in my wardrobe. Kate shows that comfort and sophistication don't need height when it comes to your footwear. What’s great about these is they are the perfect everyday shoe without feeling too casual, giving the grace of a heel but without the pain."