Women's Lara Shoes by Universal Thread
The Universal Thread Women's Lara Shoes bring together casual comfort and timeless design in a versatile flat that transitions seamlessly from morning errands to evening plans. We built these shoes with a cushioned insole and flexible outsole to support you through long days on your feet, while the clean silhouette pairs effortlessly with everything from cropped denim to midi skirts.
Crafted with a soft faux-leather upper and an almond-toe shape, the Lara flats offer a polished look that never feels overdone. The slip-on construction with elasticized topline means you can step in and go — no fussing with buckles or laces. Available in versatile neutrals and seasonal accent colors, these shoes become the foundation of a streamlined capsule wardrobe.
- Soft faux-leather upper with almond-toe silhouette
- Cushioned memory-foam insole for all-day comfort
- Flexible rubber outsole with textured tread
- Elasticized topline for easy slip-on wear
- Low-profile 0.5-inch heel height
Materials & construction
We designed the Lara flats with a premium faux-leather upper that mimics the soft hand-feel of genuine leather while remaining easy to maintain. The material resists creasing better than traditional canvas and wipes clean with minimal effort, making these shoes ideal for unpredictable weather and busy schedules.
Inside, a memory-foam insole conforms to the unique contours of your foot, providing targeted cushioning at pressure points around the heel and ball. The flexible rubber outsole bends naturally with each step, reducing fatigue during extended wear. Reinforced stitching along the topline and toe box ensures the shoes hold their shape season after season.
Sizing & fit guidance
The Lara shoes run true to size with a medium width profile. If you typically wear a half size, we recommend ordering your usual half size for the best fit — the elasticized topline offers slight give without requiring you to size up.
Fit notes
The almond-toe shape provides ample room for toes to spread naturally, while the low-cut topline sits just below the ankle bone for a streamlined look. Customers with higher arches appreciate the cushioned insole, which adds support without bulk. For those between sizes or with wider feet, ordering a half size up ensures comfortable all-day wear without pinching.
Styling versatility
These flats anchor dozens of outfit combinations throughout the year. Pair them with straight-leg denim and an oversized button-down for weekend brunch, or wear them with tailored trousers and a knit blazer for casual Fridays at the office. The neutral colorways — including black, tan, and ivory — coordinate with virtually any palette, while seasonal hues like burgundy and olive add a subtle accent to fall and winter looks.
The slip-on design makes them a practical choice for travel, since you can remove them quickly at airport security and slide them back on without bending down. Their low profile also means they pack flat in a suitcase without taking up valuable luggage space, and they work equally well for museum tours or dinner reservations.
More everyday flats and slip-ons
What people are saying
Questions about the Lara shoes
The elasticized topline offers slight give from the first wear, but the faux-leather upper holds its shape well and does not stretch significantly over time. If you prefer a looser fit, we recommend ordering a half size up, though most customers find their true size provides the ideal balance of snugness and comfort throughout the day.
The Lara shoes handle occasional drizzle and damp pavement without issue, thanks to the water-resistant faux-leather upper. However, we do not recommend wearing them in heavy rain or standing water, as prolonged exposure to moisture can compromise the adhesive bond and interior cushioning. If they do get wet, allow them to air dry naturally rather than using direct heat.
The Lara shoes are designed with a medium width profile, and the almond-toe shape provides more room than pointed-toe styles. Customers with wider feet often find success ordering a half size up, which adds length and allows the flexible upper to accommodate a broader forefoot. The elasticized topline also reduces pressure across the instep compared to rigid slip-on designs.
For minor scuffs, gently rub the area with a damp microfiber cloth and a small amount of white vinegar or rubbing alcohol. This usually lifts surface marks without dulling the finish. For deeper scratches, a matching shoe polish or leather conditioner formulated for synthetic materials can help blend the blemish. Always test any cleaning product on an inconspicuous area first.
Yes, the memory-foam insole is removable and can be replaced with custom orthotics if you require additional arch support or heel cushioning. The shoe's interior has enough volume to accommodate most standard orthotic inserts without feeling cramped. Simply lift the existing insole from the heel and slide in your preferred insert for a personalized fit.
Universal Thread products purchased at Target stores or on Target.com are eligible for return within 90 days of purchase with a receipt. The shoes must be in new, unworn condition with original packaging. If you've worn them briefly indoors and find the fit isn't right, most Target locations will still accept the return as long as there is no visible wear on the outsole.
The Lara flats run true to standard US women's sizing with a medium width. Compared to brands like Clarks or Naturalizer, they have a similar width profile through the midfoot and toe box. If you typically wear narrow or wide-width shoes in other brands, you may want to try the Lara flats in-store first to confirm the fit, or order your usual size and utilize Target's flexible return policy if adjustments are needed.