The West Coast sun demands a very specific kind of transitional wardrobe. Everyone is currently talking about Katie Holmes's spring flats after she stepped out in San Diego during her stage run in Henrik Ibsen's Hedda Gabler. She paired a breezy lace-trimmed Dôen Frederica top with patchwork wide-leg jeans. Her footwear of choice was a simple, structured Mary Jane.
These are the Franco Sarto Oakes square-toe flats. They feature a single gold-buckle strap and a rich hickory brown suede finish.
Finding a truly comfortable walking shoe that does not compromise on architectural elegance is a rare feat. Holmes has long been a champion of accessible footwear, frequently rotating between brands like Vivaia and Franco Sarto. The Oakes flat normally retails for a modest $135 but is currently marked down to just under $100. This shoe balances a sleek silhouette with practical wearability.
I am an absolute sucker for a genuinely comfortable walking shoe.
I set out to find six walkable styles that look exactly like her chic spring flats. The market is currently flooded with high-vamp silhouettes and delicate straps. This makes it incredibly easy to replicate her effortless boho aesthetic for daytime.
The Dôen Frederica top serves as the ideal foundation for this look. Priced at $168, it features puffed sleeves and floral embroidery that elevate the standard white t-shirt. Holmes accessorized the ensemble with oversized sunglasses and a slouchy leather crossbody bag. The resulting aesthetic is both deeply rooted in early spring optimism and grounded by sensible footwear.
Her commitment to practical style is well documented. She previously debuted a pair of $129 square-toe ballet flats from Vivaia.
The first standout alternative to the Oakes is the Franco Sarto Tinsley flat. Holmes herself wore the metallic silver iteration last autumn. They offer a similarly supportive footbed and are currently heavily discounted from their original $125 price tag to $56. Zara also provides an accessible suede ballet flat that captures the exact chocolate tone of the highly coveted original design.
Tony Bianco offers the Bobbi Mary Jane for a modern twist.
For those willing to invest in premium materials, the Reformation Bethany Ballet Flat is a beautiful contender. Jeffrey Campbell also offers the Dancerina Suede flat, which leans perfectly into the modern balletcore trend.
Both of these elevated designs prioritize a soft leather lining that prevents blisters during long city commutes. They mirror the exact peasant-blouse styling potential of the original look. The wide-leg jeans Holmes wore provide a stark structural contrast to the delicate nature of a flat shoe. This juxtaposition is a styling trick favored by fashion editors across the globe.
The Madewell Remy flat is another flawless everyday option. It provides exceptional arch support without sacrificing visual appeal.
The Vince Daniela suede flat rounds out our top six recommendations. Priced higher at $335, it brings a distinct minimalist luxury to the table. These selections prove that you do not need a massive budget to achieve the perfectly curated Hollywood off-duty look. Franco Sarto has amassed quite the celebrity clientele in recent years, including Gigi Hadid and Camila Cabello.
Good footwear dictates the entire rhythm of your daily life.
Holmes has been loyal to this brand since adding the $115 Franco Clemens Espadrille Wedge Sandal to her wardrobe. It is refreshing to see an A-list actress repeatedly champion footwear that real people can actually afford.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exact brand of flats does Katie Holmes wear?
Katie Holmes frequently wears Franco Sarto and Vivaia flats. She was recently photographed wearing the Franco Sarto Oakes Mary Janes in hickory brown suede.
Where can I buy the Franco Sarto Oakes flats?
The Franco Sarto Oakes flats are available directly from the brand and at major retailers like Amazon. They are currently marked down to $99.99 from their original $135 price tag.
What top did Katie Holmes pair with her Mary Janes?
She wore the Dôen Frederica Top in the color salt. This $168 peasant-style blouse features puffed sleeves, scalloped lace trim, and delicate floral embroidery.
Are square-toe flats in style for spring 2026?
Yes. Square-toe flats and high-vamp silhouettes are major footwear trends for the spring season. They offer a sharp architectural update to the classic rounded ballet slipper.
How do you properly style brown suede flats?
Brown suede flats pair exceptionally well with wide-leg denim and breezy peasant blouses. They also complement tailored linen trousers and midi skirts for a highly refined daytime aesthetic.
