Giambattista Valli spring 2011, Imaxtree

Mile-high heels will always have a loyal following. But thanks to the ever-evolving runway, flats are becoming freshly three-dimensional—and a major spring 2011 trend. Gone are the days of frumpy, dull flats as fashion houses including Lanvin, Chloé, and Giambattista Valli showed an array of surprisingly comfortable options.

This season, shoppers will be able to walk proudly (if a little less tall) in delicate ballet slippers, naked gladiators, bejeweled slip-ons, intricate strappy sandals, and masculine brogues. And to anyone who doubts the sex appeal of staying planted firmly on the ground, Oscar de la Renta’s femme fatale-pointed numbers should provide sufficient rebuttal. Chanel, Rochas, and others are also moving the popular look well into pre-fall 2011, so we wouldn’t be surprised to see it appear at the upcoming fall 2011 shows. Finally—a trend with lasting power that helps you last on your feet.

Chloé spring 2011, Imaxtree

Lanvin spring 2011, Courtesy of STYLE.com

Chanel pre-fall 2011, Imaxtree

Rochas pre-fall 2011, Imaxtree

Oscar de la Renta pre-fall 2011, Imaxtree