We're well and truly in the era of the statement shoe. In recent years, we've seen certain cult styles emerge and completely take over the fashion scene, creating their own accessory ecosystems.

Alaia's mesh ballet flats spawned a whole new category of… mesh ballet flats, Bottega Veneta's terry towelling slides were possibly the world's most duped shoe, The Row's jelly sandals have made rubber cage shoes a thing, and we don't need to tell you what Adidas Sambas did for coloured sneakers.

Have you heard of the Wrong Shoe theory? Leigh Campbell explains. Post continues below.

Shoes are no longer the afterthought of your outfit. Instead, they've become the focal point. And while we used to rely on heels to make an impression with our footwear, we've now settled into a very welcome season of statement flats.

Everywhere we look, we're seeing quirky ballerinas, sandals, flatforms and slides designed with look-again details like embellishments and unexpected fabrications. They're an instant way to add some interest to your look, whether it's your everyday workwear or an evening 'fit that could do with a little extra je ne sais quoi.

Alexa Chung in Miu Miu's satin Mary Jane flats. Image: Instagram.

And sure, you can still get all the classic styles in the shops in neutral shades, but these are so much more fun.

The good news is, you don't have to spend a whole lot of money on designer styles to tap into the trend. There are SO many fun pairs hitting the high street and the shelves of Australian brands — the hardest part is choosing one.

So here are my top picks.

Shop statement ballet flats and Mary-Janes.

Charles & Keith Trifina Pointed Toe Slingback Flats, $93.

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Top End Alily Red Patent Mix Ballet Flats, $179.95.

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Bared Footwear Whydah, $269.

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Frankie4 Trinity Pink Metallic, $269.95.

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Mollini Prado Natural Woven Flat Shoes, $179.95.

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Tony Bianco Meadow Brown Zebra, $179.95.

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Steve Madden Auden Tan Mesh, $139.95.

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Shop statement slides and sandals.

Charles & Keith Recycled Polyester Embellished Buckle Sandals, $89.

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Aere Crochet Footbed Slides, on sale for $48.

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Zara Flat Lace-Up Sandals, $105.

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Steve Madden Baseline Brown, $129.95.

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Therapy Vacay Thong Sandal Bone Lycra, $79.95.

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Sol Sana Macra Footbed Off White, on sale for $157.

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Which pair is your favourite? Let us know in the comments below.

Feature image: Instagram/ @tonybianco via @katherinelond ; @solsanathelabel

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