Of all the trends that have reemerged as part of the Y2K revival only to slip back into fashion oblivion, ballet flats have achieved something notable. Not only did they crack into the zeitgeist, but just like wide-leg jeans, they’ve managed to regain mainstay status quickly.
Perhaps it’s our sneaker fatigue or inability to wear uncomfortable shoes post-pandemic, but since Miu Miu first debuted its ballet flats at its Spring/Summer 2022 show, launching a million copycats in the process, footwear hasn’t been the same. Kitten heels have made an admirable play for the top spot, but ultimately, the reigning shoe of the last few years has been the ballet flat.
The beauty of the humble silhouette is tenfold. Sure, they’re highly practical and come in an endless array of iterations to suit everyone’s tastes and needs, but they can also be styled with just about anything and for all occasions. In fact, with the new crop of ballet flats we’re seeing from elevated designers like The Row, Khaite and Manolo Blahnik, even weddings have become a flat-friendly affair.
If you ask us, though, ballet flats are best paired with denim or dresses—both mini and maxi—for simple styling, but the outfit possibilities are only limited by your own imagination.
And as far as which styles are the best to cop? Scroll on for our edit.
The best ballet flats to shop in 2026
Next to slingbacks, ballet flats are an enduring signature of the French luxury house, and they’re a staple in many wardrobes for good reason. Crafted with impeccable precision and designed to last a lifetime, a pair of Chanel flats should definitely be on your shopping bucket list. Whether you choose core neutral tones or fun seasonal colourways, you can’t go wrong.
With a glove-like fit and memory foam padding for maximum comfort, these ESSEN ‘Foundation’ flats are aptly named.
Rendered in blue-and-white Cannage cotton bouclé, these ballet flats bring a distinctly Parisian polish to the everyday shoe by combining the house’s signature texture with a classic ballerina shape. Consider them an elegant alternative to sneakers when an outfit calls for something a little more considered.
Sometimes, the best way to refresh a wardrobe staple is to give it a little oomph. These red crochet ballerinas bring a playful, almost vintage charm to the ballet flat, with a textured finish that feels especially suited to warmer weather.
For those who love the look of a ballet flat but aren’t quite ready to give up their sneakers, UGG has found the sweet spot with their iteration of the ‘sneakerina’. The Quill marries the delicate silhouette of a slipper with a sporty sensibility, bringing a welcome dose of casual comfort to your everyday uniform.
Arguably the shoe that started it all, Miu Miu flats are never a bad idea. We suggest leaning into balletcore with the satin pink iteration.
The original ballet flat purveyors offer an everyday flat with higher coverage, buttery-soft Nappa leather, and padded insoles that will have you passing up the heels every time.
If you’re not one for basics but still want to invest in a flat shoe, look no further than the viral Tabi silhouette. Not only do these bring intrigue and whimsy to any outfit, but they’re also versatile and ridiculously comfortable—in fact, you’ll wonder why all your shoes aren’t Tabi-toed.
For something a little dressier, a slingback with a luxurious satin sheen will do the trick. These mule-style ballerinas with padded footbeds and an elastic strap for extra comfort epitomise the effortless glamour of 90s minimalism while remaining firmly modern.
For a departure from neutrals that can still be mixed and matched with ease, opt for a deep green. These suede forest green flats by Aeyde offer the perfect blend of individuality and trendiness without compromising wearability and comfort.
ALOHAS offers such a wide range of beautiful flats and loafers that it’s hard to choose just one, but our favourite has to be these Rosalind ballerinas, with a slightly rounded toe, sweet keyhole detail, and a plethora of colourways.
If you ask us, minimal prints will never date. The Saint Laurent SAO ballerinas prove ballerinas don’t need to be overly demure, bringing a dose of rock ’n’ roll to the traditional silhouette. The pony-hair finish adds tactile appeal and a little attitude, making them an ideal counterpoint to fluid slips, sharp tailoring or your favourite worn-in jeans.
If your style is a little more preppy, Manolo Blahnik’s ‘Campari’ Mary-Jane ballet flats are a no-brainer. Crafted in glossy leather with grosgrain trimming and a pointed toe, these can look just as sweet with stockings and mini skirts as they do with socks and trousers.
Australian label St Agni may be known for its summer staples, but it’s also a go-to for all our shoe needs. Case in point: these woven flats offer a more textural take on the minimalist silhouette while still packing a sartorial punch for the warmer season.
This article first appeared on GRAZIA International.
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