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 maxi skirts to cropped cardigans and baby tees. 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 leather ballet flats
Dainty and chic, Miu Miu’s ballet flats have been a cult favourite since debuting on Miu Miu’s AW22 runway. An updated version of its 2016 ribbon-tied flats, these are crafted in ivory leather and adorned with bows and a simple buckled strap. Also available in black, these are perfect for adding an edgy finish to the balletcore aesthetic.
The Row Ava ballet flats
Elegantly side-stepping school uniform vibes, The Row manages to elevate the Mary Jane silhouette. Highlighting the label’s minimalist focus on clean lines and quality materials, the Ava flats are crafted in buttery-soft black leather with a rounded square toe. The high strap frames the arch of the foot while a concealed wedge helps streamline the shape. Wear with a maxi dress (perhaps a tulle and lace Simone Rocha confection) or trousers and a fitted blazer.
Chloé Lauren ballet flats
Chloé’s Lauren ballerinas are a celebrity favourite, spotted on stars including Angelina Jolie, Lily Collins and Eva Longoria. The elegant flats are made with supple black leather featuring the brand’s signature scalloped edges. Wear yours with everything from jeans to breezy summer dresses.
Alaïa crystal-embellished ballet flats
If you’re looking to add a subtle sparkle to your outfit, Alaïa’s crystal-embellished pair is 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.
Ferragamo fluffy ballet flats
Bring a touch of slipper-style comfort to your walks around town with Ferragamo’s cream ballet flats. With plush shearling covering soft leather, the Italian brand’s offering indulgently comfortable. These playful flats work best paired with straight-leg trousers.
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 black 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.
Stuart Weitzman Arabella 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. Stuart Weitzman’s take on the popular trend is a fun collision of mesh and leather. The breathability of the mesh makes them a perfect hot-weather pick to pair with shorts. Alternatively, lean into the trend with a maxi crochet dress.
Jimmy Choo pearl-embellished ballet flats
There’s no such thing as too much embellishment so don’t be afraid to finish a well-accessorised outfit with this glamorous pair from Jimmy Choo. Sculpted from suede, they feature a foot strap embellished with faux pearls making them ideal for swapping out the heels at your next wedding.
Mach & Mach Audrey ballet flats
Making a strong case against pigeonholing ballet flats into the commuter shoe category, these metallic Mach & Mach flats ooze glamour. The crystal-trimmed pair makes for a great party option while also being a good alternative to sky-high bridal heels.
Valentino Garavani bow-embellished ballet flats
A softer take on Mary Janes, Valentino Garavani’s uber-feminine flats are rendered in glossy blush-hued patent leather. With delicate bow-embellishments and slim straps, they’re perfect for a sunny picnic or girls’ day out when worn with a floral dress and a coordinating bow in your hair.
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