If your work attire normally requires pumps, most flats will be inappropriate for anything beyond casual Fridays. Two exceptions are the classic cap-toe flat, which always looks professional, and the solid color slip-on it looks like a pump, but doesn't have a heel).

If your job's dress code is less restrictive (and fortunately for most of us, that's more likely than not these days), you can select from the trendiest styles--slippers, slides, mules--which run the gamut from sporty to sexy.

The Rules for Flats at Work

Just keep these guidelines in mind when you choose shoes for work:

• Choose leather or suede (or fabric) instead of canvas, which is much sportier.
• Opt for a closed toe, which eliminates the suggestion of bare feet.
• Choose a slight heel--even a half-inch.. (Mules especially need a bit of a heel, or else they tend to look like slippers).