Yesterday, I posted a pair of dark tan flats in the Two Ways post.  A few hours later, I went to my local Macy’s to pick up a gift for a wedding and there they were.  So, of course, I tried them on.

These are the Nine West Alena flats (in cognac, in other colors) and they are the basic flat shoe of my 2011 memories.  Yes, they are that good.

First off, they’re simple.  No logos.  No metal accents.  No scalloped edges.  Just sleek simplicity.

Second, they’re light.  One of the reasons I moved to Rothy’s is that I hate a heavy, clunky shoe.  These are flexible, lightweight and perfect for shoving in a work bag after a commute.

Third, they’re comfortable with a cushiony rubber sole (that I wish was a hair thicker, but for the flexibility, I’ll take it).  Are you going to be able to walk the entire National Mall on a day of sightseeing?  No.  Are you going to be able to walk to and from the Metro, to and from lunch, and then home again without praying for death?  Yes.

Lastly, they’re not round-toe.  Now, I’m about to say something that’s going to set the comments ablaze like days of old, but here we go: I haven’t worn a pair of round-toe flats in a professional setting in years because I think they look less polished than points.  In fact, I think they look a little juvenile (maybe that’s just me, it could just be me).  These square-toe flats are the perfect alternative.  More relaxed than points, not as youthful as a round toe.

I loved these shoes so much, I bought two pair on the spot.  I’ve been looking for a red pair for casual wear, because the Sarah Flints are for the office.  And I bought a black pair because I intend to wear them with leggings and sweaters in the early fall.

If you’ve been looking for an easy commuting shoe or you just want something to wear around the house that isn’t a slipper, but also isn’t a heavy shoe, these are them.

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