Beyond pliés: The best everyday ballet flats
Embrace Parisienne elegance with these timeless ballet flats
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This summer has been a poster child for the resurgence of beloved fashion trends from years gone by – from jelly sandals to crochet to maxi skirts and jorts. And, while you may be rueing the return of Y2k style, we can all agree that the return of the ballet flat is seriously good news. The popularity of ballet flats has risen and ebbed over the years and, thankfully, they’ve pirouetted back onto the fashion radar this season.
Ballet flats are undoubtedly one of the most comfortable shoes. Easy to slip on and slim enough to be tucked away in a bag as a chic swap, they’ve been a favourite commuter shoe for years. But these chic flats deserve more credit for their versatility. With iterations ranging from satin Mary Jane-inspired versions to crystal and pearl embellished options, ballet flats are poised to become the official shoe of summer. The versatile silhouette pairs well with everything – from denim and tailoring to maxi dresses and breezy summer co ords, as demonstrated by style icons like Alexa Chung, Bella Hadid and even Meghan Markle.
So whether you’re looking for a comfort-first shoe to wear to work or something sophisticated for your weekend escapes and summer holidays, here are the best ballet flats to buy now.
Miu Miu woven ballet flats
Dainty and chic, Miu Miu’s ballet flats have been a cult favourite since debuting on the brand’s AW22 runway. Featuring a summery woven construction in a luminous gold, and adorned with bows and a simple elasticated band with the brand’s logo, they’re perfect for adding a romantic and playful finish to the balletcore aesthetic.
Le Monde Beryl Mary Jane snake-effect ballet flats
Elegantly side-stepping school uniform vibes, Le Monde Beryl manages to elevate the Mary Jane silhouette. Highlighting the label’s understated but undeniably chic style, these ballet flats are crafted in snake-effect leather with a rounded square toe. Wear with a maxi dress or tailored trousers and a fitted blazer.
Chloé Marcie embellished leather ballet flats
Chloé’s ballerinas are a celebrity favourite, spotted on stars including Angelina Jolie, Lily Collins and Eva Longoria. These elegant Marcie flats are made with smooth black leather and feature T-bar straps for an adjustable fit. Wear yours with everything from jeans to tailoring.
Alaïa crystal-embellished ballet flats
If you’re looking to add a subtle sparkle to your outfit, Alaïa’s crystal-embellished ballet flats are ideal. Made from 100 per cent lambskin, they feature a rounded toe, buckled strap and all-over crystal studs. Pair with a chic A-line dress or mini skirt for a glamorous date night look.
Maison Margiela Tabi Ballet Flats
Once a mainstay of ‘if you know you know’ fashion, Maison Margiela’s signature split-toe Tabi shoes, inspired by Japanese tabi socks, are now mainstream icons. These crisp white brushed leather Tabis are detailed with dainty knotted bows and are best worn with a tailored midi skirt or crisp straight-leg trousers and a vest to lean into the design’s high-fashion associations.
Loewe + Paula's Ibiza Rio suede Mary Jane espadrilles
A summery take on the classic ballet flats, Loewe and Paula’s Ibiza’s ongoing collaboration brings a raffia sole to this tan suede deisgn, complete with whipstiched trims. A chunkier fit than the more classic delicate style, we’ll be wearing ours with long linen dresses and a raffia basket swung over our shoulders.
Proenza Schouler Slant crocheted ballet flats
The naked dress may have become a dated trend, but it’s given way to a subtler form of daring dressing – naked shoes. Proenza Schouler’s take is a fun collision of crochet and vivid orange. The breathability of the open lattice makes them a perfect hot-weather pick to pair with shorts. Alternatively, lean into the trend with a matching maxi crochet dress.
Jimmy Choo Margot ballet flats
Jimmy Choo has ballet flats in suede, raffia and even jelly to suit all tastes and occasions. The Margot, crafted from a glossy patent leather in an elongated silhouette featuring smart pointed toes, resulting in a more formal style that remains feminine, timeless and looks just as good with tailoring as floaty dresses and chic mini skirts.
Aeyde Onda metallic pumps
Making a strong case against pigeonholing ballet flats into the commuter shoe category, these metallic silver Aeyde flats ooze glamour. The crinkled leather design with sweet bows and a small heel make for a great party option while also being a good alternative to sky-high bridal heels.
Christian Louboutin Cassia satin flats
Inspired by the traditional ballet pointe shoe, Louboutin’s romantic ballet flats are rendered in baby pink satin and complete with delicate ribbons that wrap around the ankle. With square toes and sweet bows, they’re perfect for a sunny picnic or girls’ evening out when worn with a floral dress and a coordinating bow in your hair.
Read more: Flip flops are the summer shoe that never goes out of style
