Ballet Flats Are Officially Back—Add These Comfy Styles to Your Cart ASAP
Because sore feet are not in the cards this season.
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Summer is officially over and, with its passing goes those cushy flip-flops and slides you wore everywhere. While you could start squashing your feet into heels and booties again, it’s understandable to want to keep those feel-good shoe vibes going, and fortunately, ballet flats (alogng with the enduring balletcore trend overall) have officially made a triumphant comeback for fall, so you don’t need to sacrifice style in the name of comfort.
Flat shoes have been embraced by fashion folks for the majority of 2023, but during New York Fashion Week (Spring/Summer 2024), ballet flats appeared to be one of the most salient footwear trends (especially during day one)—both on the runway and on the streets. Fashion editors, off-duty models, and style influencers embraced the practical shoe style with open arms. We saw plenty of variations on the classic ballet flat too, including cool-girl-approved square-toe styles, feminine mary-janes, and the breakout star of the heel-free footwear movement: mesh flats.
We’re certainly glad flats in all forms (not just traditional ballet styles) are having a renassiance—these comfortable shoes have little to no heel, keeping pressure off your toes while you walk and generally go about your day. They also look great when paired with jeans, leggings, or dresses and most styles can even be dressed up for more formal moments.
Ready to add a pair of on-trend ballet flats to your wardrobe? Try these chic, supremely versatile, and blister-proof ballet flats on for size.
Reformation Bethany Ballet Flats
Reformation’s Bethany mary-jane flats are basically the motorcycle boots of ballet flats—and we’re totally here for it. We especially love them styles with more feminine looks, but these leather shoes will look equally as cool with jeans, work slacks, and midi skirts.
Rothy’s Washable Flat
Rothy’s The Flat is a favorite with celebrities and non-A-listers alike. It’s a classic ballet flat style with a soft upper and comfortable insole, so you don’t have to stress about breaking these shoes in. They’re also machine washable, making them easy to maintain. And—this is really cool—each pair is knit from plastic bottles.
Madewell Greta Ballet Flat
Madewell’s The Greta is the ultimate updated ballet flat. We love the on-trend slightly squared toe and mary-jane strap for a bit of twist on the classic ballet flat template. Plus, the metallic silver leather will surprsingly go with just abotut anything.
Birdies’ The Heron Flats
Birdies’ The Heron flat has a decidedly old-school vibe going on, and they’re inspired by shoes worn by Venetian gondoliers (just in case you need some cocktail hour conversation). The flats are made from raffia that’s woven into a pretty chevron pattern. Non-slip rubber soles keep you upright, while each footbed features seven layers of quilted comfort to prevent end-of-day aches.
Amazon Essentials Belice Flat
You don’t need to spend a ton for a comfortable pair of flats—these start at just $11. Enjoy a classic ballet flat look with a rounded toe that won’t squish your pups. A faux-suede microfiber lining, along with “Heel Pillow” tech gives you a comfortable feel. Plus, the sides are slightly stretchy to allow for that just-right fit.
Everlane Italian Leather Day Glove Flat
Made of 100% Italian leather, these flats from Everlane feel buttery-soft on your feet. They also have thoughtful elements, like side vents and a back pull tab, making it easy to get your shoes on in the a.m. A cushiony insole helps you feel comfortable walking around in these all day long.
Madewell Izabel Convertible Mule Flats
These cool mule flats are a best-seller at Madewell—and we understand why. The shoes actually convert from flats into mules, just in case you want to literally let your heels cool off. The flats feature a Cloudlift Lite padding for an airy feel. Enjoy a leather upper, pigskin lining, and standout stitching around the bottom.
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