Ballet Flats Are Having Their Moment—Here Are 9 Pairs We’d Buy
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These days, ballet flats are as ubiquitous as blue jeans. No longer restricted to a ballerina’s uniform, the delicate footwear has evolved into a practical everyday solution and it’s not hard to see the appeal. With their versatile silhouette and practical construction, ballet flats make a good match for a day at the office or a weekend road trip. Pair them with tailored trousers or a ‘90s-inspired slip dress, and you will look effortlessly cool. While previous iterations have felt more suitable for daytime activities, designers have reimagined them for evening occasions—just ask Khaite founder Catherine Holstein about these crystal-embellished flats or Sandy Liang about the satin styles she sent down her spring 2024 runway.
As a fan of wearable yet stylish day-to-day footwear, I have come to like the idea of owning a pair of ballet flats. They also make great transitionala shoes—not fully covered, but not as revealing as thong sandals. And because I’m used to seeing the plain or two-tone Chanel dupes everywhere, I’ve been enjoying the variety of choices available lately. I’m particularly into the mesh ballet flats because they offer something edgier and cooler. If I’m going to wear these shoes and for them to truly become staples in my closet, they need to pack a certain visual punch. So with that in mind, I narrowed down the myriad of options to a few cool styles.
From Mansur Gavriel’s polished Dream Ballerina to Le Monde’s completely sheer flats, step into these endlessly wearable shoes.
Tamara Mellon Minty Ballerina
Consider these your fall-ready ballerina flats ($295) — and don’t worry about the heels, they’re practically nonexistent. The satin texture helps transition them effortlessly from day to night, while the rich brown color is ever so versatile. Wear these flats for a day out at the park or an impromptu cocktail date after work.
Tamara Mellon Minty Ballerina
$295
Mansur Gavriel Square Toe Ballerina
It’s not hard to see why these Mansur Gavriel Ballerina Flats ($395) are bestsellers. Designed in a polished leather material and featuring an edgy square toe, they look both modern and timeless. This pair comes in several colors, but there is something undeniably pretty about the leafy shade. The stacked heel and dainty bow are subtle details that give it a slightly dressier feel. Style yours with a structured mini skirt and a relaxed button-down.
Mansur Gavriel Square Toe Ballerina
$395
Reformation Bethany Ballet Flat
For the edgy girls who still want to rock ballet flats, these Reformation Bethany styles ($268) might do the trick. The silver hardware gives them attitude, so you’ll walk around knowing you’re that girl. From a mini skirt suit to your favorite jeans and button-downs, this contemporary take on classic ballet flats will pair well with a wide range of ensembles.
Reformation Bethany Ballet Flat
$268
Le Monde Beryl Luna Mesh Ballerina Flats
Feeling bold? The Luna Mesh Ballerina Flats ($465) are deceptively simple, yet they include a sheer twist for the adventurous dressers. Consider this the barely-there version of ballet flats. While we’d save it for the warmer fall days because of the breathable design, you can totally accessorize with socks for more protection. As far as you can wear these shoes with, how about everything? Give your colleagues something to talk about the next time you work from the office.
Le Monde Beryl Luna Mesh Ballerina Flats
$465
Jeffrey Campbell Arabesque Ballet Flat
Jeffrey Campbell is known for its edgy and sometimes outlandish designs, but this classic two-toned ballet flats offer something more classic and wearable. The Arabesque flats ($145) are definitely eye-catching with their leather and suede design, plus the nude color makes them pretty easy to style. In fact, pairing them with boyfriend jeans and graphic tee may prove quite elevated.
Jeffrey Campbell Arabesque Ballet Flat
$145
J.Crew Anya Mary Jane flats
When heels are out of the question yet you still have a fancy event to go to, these J.Crew Anya Mary Jane flats ($110) will rise to the occasion. From the polished gold color to the edgy square toe, the shoes deliver easy style without any pretense. You’ll also be happy about the flexible sole, which will add a pep in your step.
J.Crew Anya Mary Jane flats
$110
Larroude Blair Ballet Flats
For everyday shoes that will go with everything in your closet, it doesn’t get more practical than these Larroude Blair Ballet Flats ($315), which are fashioned out of a denim material. Complete your Canadian tuxedo look with these wearable slip-on styles or pair them with a flowy maxi dress for a semi-formal moment. The crystal buckle is just the cherry on top.
Larroude Blair Ballet Flats
$315
Maison Margiela Tabi Ballerinas
Thanks to their avant-garde style and if-you-know-you-know appeal, Tabi shoes ($690) continue to be winners in fashion circles. Beyond the aesthetic, the split-toe design reportedly maintains your gait and helps prevent foot injuries as it moves with your feet—making the shoes not just a fashion statement, but very functional. They come in boots, slingback shoes, and of course, ballet flats.
Maison Margiela Tabi Ballerinas
$690
Jimmy Choo Tilda Ballerina Flats
For a more fashion-forward style, look no further than Jimmy Choo’s Tilda Ballerina Flats ($795). While they command a premium, these flats totally deliver on the easy sophistication and understated glamor associated with the brand’s footwear. The glossy leather and gold chain accent naturally lend them to evening occasions, but you can absolutely wear them during the day. Why not give your weekly uniform an extra dose of style?
Jimmy Choo Tilda Ballerina Flats
$795