Fall Flats for $30 or Less

Ahhh...fall. Well, not quite yet. We're in the midst of the dog days of summer and one of my least favorite times of year, at least as far as the weather is concerned. We're tempted by all the fall fashions coming down the pipeline but it's too darn hot to wear them. Yet wearing our shorts and sandals for too much longer just doesn't seem right. So how do we transition our summer wardrobe into fall without looking like we're obviously blending seasons and needlessly suffering just to look chic? Flats, of course!

This is the time of year when flats become our heroes - they swoop in and rescue our white jeans, our short skirts and our dresses and carry them effortlessly into fall without much help. Sure, a few accessories offer assistance and bring the look home. But flats alone can single-handedly turn a summer look into a transitional look without much ado.

One of the quickest ways to update our look is to update our shoes. Really, if you update your shoe wardrobe, or even just add one new pair each season, you'll breathe new life into your old clothes with little effort. And the cost could be little as well - we found some of the season's hottest trends in flats at prices that will keep you coming in under budget. If you have money left over, why not treat yourself to a new handbag, a sweater wrap or a chic statement necklace to whisk your jeans and tee shirts into fall?

1/ Today as I was dressing to drop my pre-schooler off, I wanted to get a few more wears out of my fabulous white Elie Tahari jeans (a big TJ Maxx score this summer for just $20!). But I just couldn't bear to put on my sandals yet again. So I opted for my new
Cranberry Ruffpoint Flats ($25) from Target and felt that my look was transported to the brink of fall without looking too heavy. The cranberry color is spot-on and the hint of ruffle adds a little something special. Plus, they're comfy enough that I can wear all day, running errands and with the kids.

2/ If you're in the habit of reaching for your sneakers to get you through the day - DON'T! Swap them out for a pair of comfy Teal Ozella Flats ($20) from Target and you'll look chic while enjoying the cushioned insoles of your hip flats. Instant makeover!

3/ If you're loving the menswear trend this season slip on a pair of these Medina Ballet Flats ($25) and transport your look to the glamorous era of the 1940's. You may find yourself reaching for your pearls to add sparkle to your tee shirt!

4/ To give your black and white look a modern update try a pair of these Odell Ballet Flats ($14) and you'll look comfortable and casual with a shot of style!

5/ Add a hint of rocker chic to your look and it'll be a fun touch to your day. These Embellished Flats ($13) put you in touch with your inner rock-star - but look out! You may be tempted to belt out your favorite tune and embarrass the kids!

6/ For an understated and elegant look these Dexter Charlotte Flats ($25) offer a simple yet contemporary update to your most casual outfits or something a bit dressier.

7/ Rosaline Leopard Print Flats ($30)bring an easy, elegant look to your most simple denim and tee shirt pairings or they look sleek with a pair of black trousers and a brightly hued sweater.

8/ Are you mad for plaid? Add a chic touch of it with these Saniya Flats ($17).