Women's flats and ballerinas

Choosing the right pair

Start with how long you'll be on your feet. For lots of walking around town, look for a sole that feels steady underfoot and a toe box that leaves your toes room to move. For the office or dinner out, a clean silhouette in a neutral shade (black, nude or cognac) goes with almost everything. Metallics like platinum add a dressier touch without needing a heel.

Leather or textile?

Leather gradually moulds to the shape of your foot, copes well with daily wear and works in any season. Textile tends to be lighter and cooler, which makes it a better match for spring and summer, especially in the Costa del Sol heat. If you want an everyday pair for most of the year, leather is a safe bet; for warm-weather wear, textile feels lovely.

Fit and sizing

With an open, flat shoe, fit is everything, as there are no laces or buckles to take up any slack:

• Heel: it should stay put and not slip out as you walk. If it lifts, the size may be too long.
• Toes: nothing should pinch when you stand. Slight pressure in the shop usually gets worse after a few hours.
• Instep: the topline should sit snugly without digging in.

We suggest ordering your usual size. If you're unsure, drop us an email and we'll help you choose. Your first size exchange is free.

Looking after them

For leather, brush off dust with a soft cloth and apply a nourishing cream in a matching shade now and then to keep it supple and stop it cracking. For textile, deal with marks straight away using a damp cloth and mild soap, without scrubbing. Either way, let them dry naturally, away from direct sun and radiators, and store them with a little paper inside to hold their shape. Rotating between two pairs helps them last longer.