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See ya, sneakers.
By Jake Henry Smith
Make no mistake: While they’re enjoying a trendy moment, the best ballet flats are as much wardrobe essentials as your favorite white T-shirts and black leggings. They’re endlessly versatile and add polish to every outfit—flowy dresses and polished suits very much included. We’ll be the first to admit that certain pairs leave plenty to be desired, though, which is why we turned to our editors to recommend the ballet flats they love and trust on a daily basis. (More on that in a moment.) First, let’s get into how to style ballet flats.
How to style ballet flats
The easiest (and most romantic) way to wear these trending shoes is with feminine staples like miniskirts and event dresses; pull this style out for occasions like weddings and daytime parties. If your style leans a little edgier, though, try wearing ballets with borrowed-from-the-boys staples like straight-leg jeans, roomy slacks, button-down shirts, and trench coats. Whether you’re headed to the office or to brunch, you’ll give off just the right downtown, cool-girl vibe.
Every color and material has its place, but we’ve noticed a huge rise in red ballet flats—often in leather or mesh—to add a pop of color to otherwise neutral palettes. (Dakota Johnson did it best.) Mary Jane options are also super popular right now, as are picks at both ends of the “look at me” spectrum. On one hand, Ganni’s decked-out buckle flats (plus their many dupes) are everywhere; on the other, minimalist glove flats are fashion-insider faves. The takeaway? Pick any pair that speaks to you, and style them intuitively.
If you’re shopping with a specific season in mind, consider the materials: A suede or leather style is great for fall and winter, whereas in spring and summer, you’ll likely want to reach for something more breathable (like mesh or raffia) that won’t give your heels blisters. If you’re flat-footed or need additional arch support, look for a pair with cushioned insoles and elastic or adjustable Mary Jane straps. And if you have narrow or wide feet, your best bet is a pair of shoes in extended widths or half sizes.
Ready to give your white sneakers a rest and add some timeless elegance to your shoe rotation? These are the very best ballet flats to wear right now, according to Glamour editors and reviewers. From trendy mesh flats to tried-and-true leather options, these are the pairs we reach for every day.
The best ballet flats, at a glance
- Best Overall Ballet Flats: J.Crew Zoe Ballet Flats, $128
- Most Comfortable Ballet Flats: Vionic Joseline Flats, $79
- Best Embellished Ballet Flats: Free People Mystic Mary Jane Flats, $128
- Best Designer Ballet Flats: Tory Burch Cap-Toe Ballets, $248
- Best Minimalist Ballet Flats: Everlane Italian Leather Day Gloves, $135
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Best Overall Ballet Flats: J.Crew Zoe Ballet Flats
1/15
Best Classic Ballet Flats: J.Crew Zoe Ballet Flats
Prefer a traditional rounded-toe style that’ll last you through many trend cycles to come? These leather flats come in two simple shades (black and blush) and feature a classic bow, a slightly raised vamp, and full toe coverage. “These are among the most comfortable shoes I own, which has made them a total go-to,” says Elizabeth Siegel, Allure deputy beauty director. Dress them up for special occasions with a midi or down for everyday wear with jeans; either way, reviewers say they are not a want but a need.
Sizes: 5–12 / Colors: 2 options / Material: Leather
Pros: Half sizes available; plenty of padding
Cons: Sizing might run small.Most Comfortable Ballet Flats: Vionic Joseline Flats
2/15
Vionic Joseline Flats
Planning on spending all day in your ballet flats? You’ll need a pair of walking shoes that prioritizes comfort and style—and that’s what Vionic does best. Designed with an EVA footbed to provide plenty of arch support and minimize underfoot fatigue, this buttery-soft leather ballet flat won’t leave you with blisters or pain. Plus, the strap keeps it on your feet while adding a stylish extra touch. “These are so cute and stylish and can be worn for everyday or for a somewhat dressy event,” one Amazon reviewer says. “Very comfortable right out of the box. I ordered my regular size 7.5 and the fit is perfect.”
Sizes: 5–12 / Colors: 3 options / Material: Leather
Pros: Comfortable footbeds; strap for extra support; true to size
Cons: Might run narrowSave on the best ballet flats with these Amazon promo codes.
Best Leather Ballet Flats: Reformation Bethany Ballet Flats
3/15
Reformation Bethany Ballet Flats
“I can’t take credit for discovering these ballet flats from Reformation; I actually bought them because they looked so cute on my colleague, Sam Reed. I did pick my own color, though,” says Stephanie McNeal, Glamour’s senior editor. “She raved about how comfortable they were, and she’s right—you can walk around in them all day. Plus, I love how they elevate the classic Mary Jane with the fun stud detail on the buckle.” This chestnut is a perfect rich brown that looks great with light-wash denim, black trousers, and colorful skirts alike.
Sizes: 5–11 / Colors: 9 options / Material: Leather
Pros: Half sizes available; plenty of padding
Cons: Frequently sold outBest Embellished Ballet Flats: Free People Mystic Mary Jane Flats
4/15
Mystic Mary Jane Flats
It’s rare to find an embellished pair of ballet flats that reviewers rave about being both comfortable and stylish, but that’s exactly the case with these studded flats. The cushioned footbed and adjustable ankle strap make these a fan favorite for wearing with both dresses and jeans. “I’ve been eyeing these shoes for months, and I’m so glad I finally bought them,” one Free People reviewer writes. “The leather is soft and they’re very comfortable. Fit is spot on. They look great with jeans and dresses. Perfection!”
Sizes: 6–11 / Colors: 5 options / Material: Leather
Pros: Adjustable ankle strap; studded details
Cons: Sizing might run large.Save on the best ballet flats with these Free People promo codes.
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Best Ballet Flats for Narrow Feet: Mansur Gavriel Dream Ballerinas
5/15
Best Leather Ballet Flats: Mansur Gavriel Dream Ballerinas
Mansur Gavriel is the leather-focused brand behind some of our favorite tote bags and designer handbags, and it’s been cosigned by stylish celebs like Katie Holmes. So yes, it makes a mean pair of ballerina flats. Available in tons of hues, from soft rose to vibrant red, this high-quality leather pair is a dependable pick you’ll keep turning to for countless ’fits to come. (But you might find yourself coveting multiple pairs—don’t say we didn’t warn you.) “They’re ultracomfortable and flexible, and while I typically opt for ballerinas with a little less coverage, there’s something chic about these,” says Brie Schwartz, commerce director at Glamour. “I’ve gone through many other pairs in the past 20 years, and I’m particular about the toe area being extra soft, or else they end up hurting my narrow feet. But these, as the name implies, are a total dream.”
Sizes: 35–42 EU / Colors: 14 options / Material: Leather
Pros: Timeless look; tons of colors
Cons: PriceySave on the best ballet flats with these Nordstrom promo codes and Bloomingdale’s promo codes.
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Best Mesh Ballet Flats: Zodiac Idra Mary Jane Ballet Flats
6/15
Zodiac Idra Mary Jane Ballet Flats
Mesh ballet flats have completely taken over our feeds this season, especially as seemingly every celebrity adopts the viral fishnet pair from Alaïa that kicked off the trend. (Hey, they’re way more summer-friendly than, say, patent leather.) This pick from Zodiac offers a similar look for a fraction of the price. “I’ve been loving the Alaïa mesh flats, but I know better than to trust the streets of NYC with a pair of $900 shoes, so I opted for this pair as an affordable dupe,” says Alexandra Folino, Glamour’s art director. “The comfort and breathability of these have given my feet a new life.”
Sizes: 5–11 / Colors: 5 options / Material: Mesh
Pros: Elastic strap for support; breathable material
Cons: Might run slightly largeSave on the best ballet flats with these Nordstrom Rack promo codes.
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Best Mary Jane Ballet Flats: Abercrombie & Fitch Mary Jane Flats
7/15
Abercrombie & Fitch Mary Jane Flats
“Abercrombie may not seem like the obvious choice for shoes (or workwear, for that matter), but I find myself turning to the brand again and again these days,” says Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs. “I wanted a pair of stylish flats that I could wear to the office or to complete a dressier outfit, so I gave these ballet flats a go. I love the slightly squared-off toe that feels more modern, the polished leather look to them, and how comfortable they are (for a flat shoe, anyway). I can wear them with trousers and jeans, or even tennis skirts—so versatile!” We also can’t complain about that very reasonable price tag.
Sizes: 6–10 / Colors: 1 option / Material: Polyurethane
Pros: Half sizes available; trendy look
Cons: Slightly limited sizingBest Woven Ballet Flats: Joie Aimee Flats
8/15
Joie Aimee Flats
Although they might look like raffia, these summery flats are actually made from woven leather—a more durable pick. They’re not great for cold weather, even with fleece-lined tights, but they’re plenty breathable for the warmer months. (Plus, they’re a godsend for those of us with sweaty feet.) A leather bow nods to the classic ballets you wore as a schoolgirl, keeping the look cute and nostalgic. “I first bought the Joie Aimee flats strictly as a work shoe—it was summertime and I was tired of wearing heels, but didn’t want to wear sandals with my toes out in New York City streets—shudder,” says Ariana Yaptangco, senior beauty editor at Glamour. “However, these flats quickly turned into shoes I literally wore to every summer function—parties, dates, luncheons. You can dress them up or down with a dress or jeans. I got endless compliments on the woven material and the little bow detail, which is just too cute.”
Sizes: 5–11 / Colors: 2 options / Material: Leather
Pros: Breathable material; bow detail
Cons: Not ideal for cold weatherSave on the best ballet flats with these Amazon promo codes.
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Best Strappy Ballet Flats: Alohas Luke Flats
9/15
Alohas Luke Flats
These days, the more straps on your ballet flats, the better. This pair from Alohas definitely counts as trendy—you get a whopping four straps—but we’re excited to style these things for years to come (and give our plainer loafers a break). “The French-girl style and femme love child of ballet flats and Mary Janes, Alohas’ Luke ballet flats have become my go-to weekend shoes,” says Channing Smith, a junior designer at Glamour. “They look cute poking out of oversized jeans or starring in the show with sheer socks and a miniskirt. The parallel straps not only add a bit of interest but also keep my foot in place for a rare blister-free flats experience.” Style them with red tights when it’s chilly out, then go high-low with a blazer and denim shorts on warmer days.
Sizes: 35–42 EU / Colors: 1 option / Material: Leather
Pros: Trendy look; straps for extra support
Cons: Sizing might run small.Save on the best ballet flats with these Nordstrom promo codes and Revolve promo codes.
Best Trendy Ballet Flats: Ganni Feminine Buckle Ballerinas
10/15
Ganni Feminine Buckle Ballerinas
By now you’ve definitely seen these era-defining ballerinas from Ganni—and their many dupes. A foot-friendly alternative to slingback heels, they’re way more comfortable than they might seem. “They’re so comfy while looking like the world’s most uncomfortable shoe,” says Glamour commerce writer Andrea Navarro. “I was shocked!” Let the shoes speak for themselves and go a little simpler with the rest of your styling; we suggest a plain T-shirt, a leather jacket, and either a flowy skirt or black jeans.
Sizes: 5–12 / Colors: 10 options / Material: Polyester
Pros: Trendy look; comfortable padding; tons of colors
Cons: Duped into ubiquitySave on the best ballet flats with these Nordstrom promo codes and Net-a-Porter promo codes.
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Best Designer Ballet Flats: Tory Burch Cap-Toe Ballets
11/15
Tory Burch Cap-Toe Ballets
Love the look of Chanel’s flats (which are among the most expensive ballet flats at nearly $1,000) but not the price? Check out Tory Burch’s cap-toe flats, which emulate the look without venturing into dupe territory. Unlike most of the brand’s other flats, this pair features only a small monogram in gold, which practically oozes luxury. Reviewers note that the sizing runs slightly large, so consider sizing down before making the investment. “Very comfortable right out of the box,” one Tory Burch reviewer writes. “The cap toe is a definite plus and the shoe can be dressed up or worn with jeans. It’s a keeper!”
Sizes: 4–13 / Colors: 5 options / Material: Leather
Pros: Wide size range; minimal logo
Cons: Sizing might be off.Save on the best ballet flats with these Nordstrom promo codes and Tory Burch promo codes.
Best Ballet Flats for Work: J.Crew Quinn Square-Toe Ballet Flats
12/15
Best Square-Toe Ballet Flats: J.Crew Quinn Square-Toe Ballet Flats
Tired of the classic almond toe? Go a little more adventurous with J.Crew’s square-toe pair. Beyond being more comfortable than they look—just ask Glamour editors—they’re also ridiculously versatile. Go with light denim and a simple T-shirt on your day off, then throw them on with a full suit when you’ve got a work presentation. “Post-indie-sleaze, it took me some time to get over being triggered by ballet flats,” says Danielle Sinay, associate beauty editor at Glamour. “But this was the pair that finally did the trick. They’re chic and stylish, and so comfortable to walk in. And they don’t do that weird thing where they make your legs look short, like you’re a big baby. Dress them up or down—I personally love pairing them with tights and a skirt, and/or jeans—there’s no wrong way to wear them!”
Sizes: 5–12 / Colors: 2 options / Material: Leather
Pros: Easy to style; rubber outsole
Cons: Might run large
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Best Silver Ballet Flats: Madewell Greta Ballet Flats
13/15
Madewell The Greta Ballet Flats
Madewell’s ever-popular slip-on ballerinas score major points in the style department—look at that perfect silver finish that’s just the stylish touch for 2024—but they’re also comfortable enough to be all-day ballet flats. (You can opt for green velvet or rhinestones to go even more party-ready.) Add sustainably sourced leather and a contrasting top strap, and you have the shoe of the moment. “I love these shoes. They are surprisingly comfortable! They don’t rub my ankles or the top of my foot,” one Madewell reviewer says. “The sole has a good amount of softness to it and the leather is soft. I found them to run a little large. Since I do not have a very wide foot, I sized down half a size and they are perfect.”
Sizes: 5–12 / Colors: 6 options / Material: Leather
Pros: Half sizes available; on-trend colors
Cons: Sizing tends to run large.Save on the best ballet flats with these Madewell promo codes.
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Best Minimalist Ballet Flats: Everlane Italian Leather Day Gloves
14/15
Best Colored Ballet Flat: The Italian Leather Day Glove
The reason shoppers love Everlane’sminimalist flats? They look great with almost everything, from skirts to wide-leg pants and vintage-inspired jeans. The soft Italian leather molds to your feet and becomes more comfortable with each wear. There are also perforated side vents that keep you from overheating, plus padded insoles for extra support. “I walk miles in these flats,” says Kathleen Thomas, Glamour’s assistant market editor, who owns a similar pair from Everlane.
Sizes: 5–11 / Colors: 12 options / Material: Leather
Pros: Half sizes available; plenty of neutral colors; side vents
Cons: Might be too narrow for wide feetSave on the best ballet flats with these Everlane promo codes.
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Best Size-Inclusive Ballet Flats: Margaux The Demi
15/15
Margaux The Demi
“I’ve been meaning to test the waters with ballet flats, and this is the first pair I’ve ever found that’s big enough for my feet,” says Jake Henry Smith, Glamour’s commerce editor. “To be clear, I wear 11.5 men’s, which translates to a women’s 13.5—and Margaux delivers! In fact, the pair I ordered was even too big for my feet. I’m waiting for a replacement, but I got to check them out a bit. The leather feels soft and study, the soles seem like they’ll hold up, and there’s a great amount of padding in the insole. The price point feels completely justified. Plus, there are so many colors to choose from.”
Sizes: 3–14 / Colors: 12 options / Material: Leather
Pros: Tons of sizes and colors; multiple widths
Cons: Bows are slightly slanted
Jake Henry Smith is a commerce editor at Glamour covering all things lifestyle, from style and fashion to sexual wellness. He’s constantly testing (and reviewing) products for roundups and gift guides, including cookware sets, silk pillowcases, vibrating wands, and white T-shirts. Before joining the team at Glamour, he was a... Read more
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