Shoes are my vice. Regardless of the fact that my shoe closet (and my husband’s, though 99 percent of the footwear in there is mine!), is overflowing, I still want more. Recently, however, I got the itch to do some cleaning, which also meant saying bye to some old pairs that no longer served me—and just in time, it seems, because Sarah Jessica Parker just convinced me, in a mere millisecond, that I’m in dire need to this once-dated shoe style that’s having a major comeback. 

Sarah Jessica Parker.

Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

Parker was spotted out in New York City filming a commercial, and there is just so much to take away from her slightly chaotic outfit. The first of which is this; if you mix and match patterns and textures, you’ll have an eye-catching look, every single time. Parker opted for a mid-length polka-dot dress, a gray, peplum style sweater speckled with gray pearls, and a forest green wool coat. Chic! Fun! Fresh! She accessorized with a beaded, ring-top purse and last but not least, divisive, nostalgic T-strap ballet flats that should be the next thing you buy. 

Banana Republic Italian Leather Square-Toe Mary Jane Flats

Banana Republic

27 Edit Naturalizer Bella T-Strap Flats

Nordstrom

Sure, ballet flats on a rainy NYC day seem slightly unhinged, but SJP follows her own rules, and that’s why I love her so. That said, she didn’t go with any ol’ flats, like suede ones that can get seriously ruined on a rainy day. Instead, she went with a blue leather pair that featured a square-toe, a footwear detail Helen Mirren has entertained, and a long front T-strap (it’s exactly what you think). Think of it like Mary Jane’s older sister, offering a secure fit thanks to the strap that also adds an elevated detail, IMO. 

T-strap shoes date back to the 20th century, often worn for dancing thanks to their stability and support (TBH, this is enough to sell me on them). Nowadays, the style has been translated into various silhouettes, from flats like SJP’s to loafers like Taylor Swift’s or classic block heels like Elle Fanning’s. TL;DR? It seems like all generations are agreeing on this dated style and together, setting it up for a big comeback. 

Wear the silhouette now with socks and in the summer time without. They’re versatile, comfy, and cute, so shop some styles inspired by the Parker’s, below. 

Get the Look:

Franco Sarto Marylee T-Strap Flats
Shop now: $130; nordstrom.com

Sam Edelman Everett Ankle Strap Pumps
Shop now: $90 (Originally $150); nordstrom.com

Sézane Esther Salome Heels
Shop now: $225; sezane.com

Madewell The Mylie T-Strap Flats
Shop now: $138; madewell.com

Linea Paolo Marcel T-Strap Pumps
Shop now: $140; nordstrom.com

The Row Leather T-Strap Ballet Flats
Shop now: $1,090; saksfifthavenue.com