Over Ballet Flats? In NYC, Fashion People Prefer to Wear Miniskirts With This Sleeker Heel Alternative

I like ballet flats as much as the next girl who walks a lot, but even the biggest fan of the iconic heel-less shoe style needs to switch it up every now and then. No, I don’t want to trek around the city in stilettos, nor to I want to lace up my sneakers when I’m wearing a cute outfit. I want an in-between shoe, and for that, I always choose loafers. Specifically, patent-leather loafers, which give off a formal vibe that pairs perfectly with miniskirts, a.k.a. my favorite summer bottoms. The duo is my go-to when I want to look chic and elevated without sacrificing comfort (or having to wear pants or a long skirt in NYC’s 90-degree heat).

Apparently, I’m not alone. On Monday, Natalie Portman, who’s currently in Manhattan filming Lena Dunham’s new romantic comedy “Good Sex,” was spotted wearing my favorite skirt-and-shoe pairing for warm weather, paired with a Prada pussy-bow blouse, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, and a Jacquemus bag. Specifically, she wore a classic black miniskirt with a stylish pair of patent-leather loafers, finishing off the ensemble with gold Jacquemus earrings and a to-go iced coffee.

NEW YORK, NY - JULY 21: Natalie Portman is seen on the set of

On Natalie Portman: Oliver Peoples Avelin Acetate Butterfly Sunglasses ($578); Prada Pleated Sablé Shirt ($2250); Jacquemus The Calino ($1115) and Les Créoles Rond Carré Earrings ($189)

The styling combination is a classic. It’ll never go out of style and always looks chic, no matter what color skirt you pick or style of loafers you prefer. Classic pennies? No problem. More unique options à la Portman? Go for it. Chunkier soles? Why not? Kendall Jenner and content creator Claire Most even wore their loafers with white socks, another never-fail dressing hack.

To make recreating this elegant ensemble even easier than it already is, I went ahead and rounded up some of my favorite miniskirts and patent-leather loafers, ranging from designer options by Liberowe and Prada to more affordable takes by Lioness and Reformation. What are you waiting for? Start shopping.