There’s no denying the polish a great pair of heels can bring to an outfit, but they’re far from the only way to make a look feel elevated. This season’s flats, sneakers, and sandals are proof that comfort and sophistication can absolutely coexist. From sleek closed-toe silhouettes to minimalist sneakers and refined sandals, the right pair can make even the simplest outfit look considered.

With Labor Day weekend approaching, Nordstrom’s sale section is especially worth browsing. A number of chic, heel-free shoe styles are currently marked down for the holiday, making it the perfect excuse to fill any gaps in your late-summer and early-fall wardrobe. The best options feel timeless enough to wear well beyond the season while still tapping into the silhouettes fashion people are gravitating toward right now.

Whether heels simply aren’t your thing or you’re looking for shoes you can comfortably wear all day, the Nordstrom Labor Day sale has plenty of elevated alternatives. Think streamlined flats, cool sneakers, and polished sandals that deliver the same outfit-finishing effect without the extra height. Ahead, shop the sale-worthy pairs that prove you don’t need heels to make an outfit look expensive.

Closed-Toe Flats

Reformation Terry Ballet Pump

A classic choice.

H&M Lace-Up Ballet Flats

Jazz shoes are everywhere right now.

Sam Edelman Ruthie Woven Ballet Flats

Apple green all over for fall.

AZALEA WANG Raphael Leather Flat Mules

These animal print slides will make any outfit 10/10.

COACH Sculpted C Loafer

So elegant.

Steve Madden Eleve Square Toe Flats

For the ballerina girlies.

Tory Burch Pierced Mule

Jewelry for your feet.

Veronica Beard Prilla Loafer

These will go with everything in your closet.

MARGAUX The Phoebe Flats

Yep, every wardrobe needs a pair of leopard flats.

SANDRO Leather Loafers

The flexible back allows these to be mules, too.

Nine West Classik Mary Jane Flats

Wear these with perfectly cropped jeans all season long.

Sneakers

adidas Tokyo Low Top Sneaker

Sale season lets you be a little daring.

Reformation Terra Ballet Sneaker

Suede sneakers are essential.

ASICS® Gel-1130™ Sneakers

We love the subtle hint of peach here.

adidas Samba Jane Sneakers

To wear with all your basic outfits.

UGG® Quill Ballet Sneakers

It's the blue suede for us here.

Salomon Gender Inclusive Xt-6 Sneakers

The chocolate brown is so chic.

adidas Taekwondo Mei Ballet Flats

Picture these with white ruffle socks ... so cute.

New Balance Gender Inclusive 9060 Sneakers

To wear when you're running all your weekend errands.

PUMA Speedcat Ballet Lustre Sneakers

Who doesn't love a little metallic moment.

PUMA Speedcat Étoile Sneakers

No notes, just add to cart.

Sandals

Dolce Vita Jaina Embellished Flip Flops

The suede material is perfect for early fall.

Dolce Vita Lenex Toe Loop Sandals

You'll wear these for years to come.

Jeffrey Campbell Katrina Flip Flops

These would look so chic with loose jeans and a fitted long-sleeve shirt.

Dolce Vita Jozey Flip Flops

Yes, the jelly trend is still going strong.

MANGO Ankle Strap Slide Sandals

Pair these with a sheer midi dress and you're set.

TKEES Lily Square Toe Flip Flops

It's the square-toe silhouette here.

TKEES Lennon Flip Flops

The satin material makes these look so luxe.

MANGO Studded Buckle Strap Slide Sandals

Another suede option to take you through early fall and beyond.

Reformation Ludo Slide Sandals

Strappy and perfectly sexy.

Matisse Mirage Flip Flops

A pair of neutral sandals are a must.