Ballet flats have never gone dormant, but their resurgence on the Spring 2024 runways has awarded flat lovers with multiple styles and silhouettes for summer, a far more comfortable (and risk-averse) option to heels, and has cemented them as one of 2024's biggest shoe trends.
Pointed-toe flat versions appeared at Gabriela Hearst in New York and the catwalks at Tove in London. Mary-Jane flats were a staple at Cecilie Bahnsen's Paris show, and Versace styled similar metallic silhouettes for the evening with pant suits and mini dresses. The metallic shoe trend was co-signed by Katie Holmes, who wore a silver pair in New York City, while trendy mesh flat variations, seen peppered on the runways at 3.1 Philip Lim and Proenza Schouler's New York City shows, have been adopted by celebs like Jennifer Lawrence.
That sentiment and adoration for ballet flats is echoed by real women of the fashion set, too. Fashion writer and self-proclaimed ballet flat super fan Erika Veurnik prefers flats as the ideal summer shoe. "Ballet flats are a dressed-up version of a sandal or a sneaker," she says. "I reach for them instead of these two styles when I want my outfit to feel a little more refined."
This modern new era for ballet flats shows no sign of slowing down. Jessica Richards, Trend Forecaster and founder of JMR Trend and Creative, tells Maire Claire, "The [ballet flat] trend is one of the strongest footwear trends fashion has seen in a long time." She forecasts that the style will continue to evolve with even more sophisticated silhouettes that lean into the feminine appeal but command the authority and versatility of practical footwear workhorses like the loafer. "It speaks to consumers' demands for uncompromised wearability in their shoe collections," she notes.
In short, summer ballet flats are a shoe style everyone can wear and love. Ahead, Marie Claire's editors and our experts share the best ballet flats to add to your closet.
Models wore ballet flats on the Spring 2024 runways with day dresses at 3.1 Phillip Lim, shift dresses at Versace, and Grecian evening gowns at Tove, proving their innate versatility for the spring season.
Marie Claire's Favorite Ballet Flats
- Best Overall Ballet Flats: Sam Edelman Felicia Ballet Flats
- Best Affordable Ballet Flats: Amazon Essentials Women’s Belice Ballet Flats
- Best Ballet Flats for Work: Everlane The Italian Leather Day Glove Flats
- Best Designer Ballet Flats: Prada Leather Twist Floral Ballerina Flats
- Best Pointed-Toe Ballet Flats: Rothy's The Point II Flats
- Best Mary-Jane Ballet Flats: Madewell Greta Ballet Flats
- Best Mesh Ballet Flats: Alaia Mesh Mary Jane Ballerina Flats
Shop The Best Ballet Flats
These classic soft leather and padded sole ballet flats from Sam Edelman are available in two neutral colors on Nordstrom's website. They're available in sizes 4 through 14, so they're great if your foot runs on the smaller or larger side. They also come in three widths (narrow, medium, and wide), so they're one of the most customizable pairs on this list.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: Two
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 4-14, including most half-sizes
Need a pair of affordable ballet flats that will arrive in no time? Meet this simple under-$25 pair from Amazon Essentials. You don't have to take my word for it: They have over 47,000 five-star reviews on the site. You can also shop them in over 20 prints and colors ranging from neutrals to a fun cheetah print. While reviewers give these top marks for comfort, they note that they run on the slimmer side, so they're not ideal for wider feet.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 23 colors and prints
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-15, including half-sizes
Nothing sounds easier than slipping into a comfy ballet flat that fits like a glove. This pair from Everlane has a high vamp that covers most of your foot, making them the perfect full-coverage ballet flat option for the office. The soft fabrication molds to your foot, so there's no break-in period. They also come in primarily neutral colors, making them a great go-to shoe for the workplace.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 10
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-11, including half-sizes
Luxury brand Prada is no stranger to a great pair of ballet flats, but this glossy leather pair has taken the fashion set by storm this season. The structural floral toe gives them a unique artsy effect. Wearable in both formal and casual situations, these pointed-toe flats would work perfectly as an elegant investment bridal shoe.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: One
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-12, including half-sizes
Marie Claire's Digital Director, Jenny Hollander, loves this pair of Rothy's pointed-toe ballet flats so much that she wore a pair on her wedding day. "That isn't a joke; I literally wore them under my dress when I got married," she says, calling them her "go-to ballet flats, without fail or exception." They're machine-washable, incredibly comfortable right out of the box, and have a rubber sole that feels supportive even after hours of wear. The pointed-toe design doesn't pinch or rub, either, and they come in more than 30 colors and prints, including black, pale blue plaid, and black-and-white polka dots.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 34 colors and prints
Mary Jane-style ballet flats aren't going anywhere this season. They've appeared on the runways at fan-favorite brands like Sandy Liang and Akris and have officially been adopted by the streetwear crowd. The traditionally feminine shoes can be edgy, or they can be their sweet selves styled alongside frilly socks or dresses. This pair from Madewell comes in a few colors, including this deep chocolate brown, and is in demand for its comfort and buttery-soft leather. You can also find them in a wicker fabrication in black and tan colors.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: Nine colors
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-12, including half-sizes
Dua Lipa is a fan of these black mesh flats from Alaïa, which have since captured the hearts of the fashion set. The patent accents and thicker mesh composition make them feel a touch more elevated for days spent at the office.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: One
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-12, including half-sizes
More Ballet Flats We Love
Tory Burch's flats are just as popular now as they ever were, except now you can shop them with sophisticated twists— like sleek gold hardware. They come in several other colors besides black, including a fun lime green and a sensible light taupe shade. The brand notes that these flats run a little large and they come in half sizes to size down.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: Five
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-13, including half-sizes
This pair of flats from Carel achieves the perfect French girl look. Alexa Chung has been a longtime fan of the brand and has been spotted wearing the Kina shoe, the style after which this pair was inspired. Pair this glossy pair with jeans or a mini skirt for a mod,' 60s-inspired vibe.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: One
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-10, including half-sizes
Free People doesn't just design the cutest boho-inspired clothing—their shoe selection is not to be overlooked. Take, for instance, this pair of two-strap Mary Janes from the line. Available in five colors and prints other than black (I have my eye on the pink shade), they have a flexible silhouette that will move with you. I would style them with lacy socks to keep the sweet vibes going.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: Six colors and prints
What's the Size Range?: US Sizes 6-11, including most half-sizes
J.Crew continues to deliver a selection of perfectly elevated basics season after season—case in point: this pair of ballet flats in either black or tan. The little bow on the front is so sweet, but the rounded-toe silhouette can be worn anywhere. Reviewers say they run true to size and have a super short break-in period.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: Two
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-12, including most half-sizes
The red color trend is continuing into the second half of 2024, and I'm excited about it—especially if I get to wear these red flats from Mansur Gavriel. The brand is behind Katie Holmes' favorite tote bag, but I recommend checking out their shoe selection, too. These are made from soft, moldable leather that becomes even comfier with wear. The higher vamp also cuts down on toe cleavage. You can even add a custom monogram for a special touch. If you don't love the red hue, they come in eight other shades, many of which are neutral.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: Nine
What's the Size Range?: EU Sizes 35-42, including most half-sizes
Eledera only opened two years ago, but it's quickly become an under-the-radar destination for ballet flats. Handmade in Milan, each pair has an elongated upper, a dainty bow elastic, and a soft, wear-all-day insole. Marie Claire's Senior Fashion and Beauty News Editor Halie LeSavage swears by the cherry red pair for a burst of color; Eledera also carries these in a trending chocolate brown color and several other shades. If you wear two different sizes or a half size, the brand also has a made-to-order service, guaranteeing a custom fit.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: Six
What’s the Size Range?: EU Sizes 36-41
The perfect pair of comfortable ballet flats can instantly improve any outfit. Marie Claire's Contributing Editor Katherine J. Igoe" loves this pair from Birdies because they're comfortable from the first wear thanks to a quilted footbed. "I mainly love that they've crafted a shoe I can wear literally every day," says Igoe, who has them in "a few of their many colors and designs." You can shop them in neutral hues alongside playful dotted and cheetah prints.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 16 colors and prints
What's the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-12, including half-sizes
It doesn't get more summery than this pair of mesh flats from Jeffrey Campbell. They're top-rated for their comfort and an easy way to get in on the trend for less. The black color keeps the mesh shoe neutral, but they come in bolder colors like white and pale pink. You can also shop them in a lace fabrication.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: Seven
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-10, including half-sizes
These metallic silver flats from It-girl-approved brand Larroude (Demi Moore and Eva Mendes are both fans) are perfect if you're looking for a high-impact silver shoe. The mirrored finish is attention-getting, while the sweet Mary-Jane silhouette leans into a sweet girlhood aesthetic. You can shop them in eight other shades other than silver, including navy blue, bright lime green, and ivory.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: Nine
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-11, including half-sizes
Set your heels aside and opt for these formal ballet flats from Loeffler Randall. They're one of the best spring shoes with their sweet pastel colorway, with delicate stone accents for a dressy twist. Available in five other pastel colors, like seafoam green and baby blue, they're perfect for dressing up your warm-weather jeans and T-shirt.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: Six
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-11, including half-sizes
Celebrated for their minimalist styles, it makes sense that The Row would hop onto the mesh shoe trend with their own signature version. Made with an ultra-slender leather sole and a lightweight netted nylon, this sock shoe silhouette has been co-signed by A-listers like Jennifer Lawrence, who wore them earlier this year. Shop them in three other neutral colors on the website.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: Three
What’s the Size Range?: EU Sizes 35-42
The ruching on this black-and-white ballet flat is offset by a square toe inspired by the '90s, which creates a soft, sleek effect. The white iteration is perfect for warmer weather, but they're also available in a poppy red, a dark gray, a tan shade, and a classic black version.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: Five
What’s the Size Range?: 5-13, including half-sizes
These Aeyde flats are a pretty close dupe for technical ballet slippers, given the satin blush material, structured square toe, and dainty bow detail. You may not be able to get on pointe as quickly, but you'll look just as cool. For an edgier look, shop them in a leather fabrication or nab them in shades like peachy pink, powder blue, and satin black.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: Eight
What's the Size Range?: EU Sizes 36-42
Call it the continuation of the mob wife trend, but cheetah print is back for 2024. This cushy pair of flats captures the aesthetic with calf-hair material and an adjustable bow you can cinch for a customizable fit. Margaux is the same brand behind Jane Fonda's silver flats at Cannes, so they're officially celebrity-approved. You can shop them in over a dozen prints and colors, including neutral hues and bold prints.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 13 colors and prints
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 3-14, including half-sizes
These pale pink lace-up shoes, from Dolce Vita's collaboration with For Love & Lemons, give the illusion of a ballet slipper. The satin lining has a soft, rub-free design, so dancing isn't out of the question.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: One
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 6-10, including half-sizes
These Ganni flats are all over my TikTok and have amassed a cult-like following for their all-day wearability. Adored for how comfortable they are despite the chunky hardware, the patent fabrication means they can be dressed up or down.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: One
What’s the Size Range?: EU sizes 35-41
Velvet flats are also going viral on social media—and this pair costs under $200. These feminine flats can be styled with a skirt or dress, but they also work well alongside a pantsuit or tailored separates. Plus, they tap into the doll shoe trend that's everywhere right now.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: One
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-11
Pointed-toe shoes don't always work for wide feet, but this pair from Franco Sarto is perfect if you do thanks to its broader toe design, higher vamp coverage, and soft leather fabrication. You can also shop them in two widths and eight other colors—many of them neutral—so you can customize your perfect fit. Reviewers also love them for their lack of break-in period.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: Nine colors and prints
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-13, including most half-sizes
The silver lining of the quiet luxury trend might be fashion's new appreciation for the classics. This pair of cap-toed flats from Stuart Weitzman is a simple silhouette that will never go out of style and is worth the investment for its versatility. They also come in 12 other shades, including all-black, baby pink and silver, and this classic tan-and-black iteration.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 13
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-12, including half-sizes
"I feel like every fashion person I know is wearing these ballet flats this summer," says Veurink. "But I get the hype. They're timeless and cool in a way a lot of ballet flats aren't." Made from buttery-soft leather, this pair is worth the investment thanks to its classic shape and colorway. The five other neutral color options include a light tan, a navy blue, a bright white, and two shades of brown.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: Six
What’s the Size Range?: EU Sizes 35-42
"There's a bit of fantasy with this design," says Richards of these silky Mary Janes. "These are so evocative of my childhood ballet slippers that made me feel like a princess [back then]. Now they serve as a sweet and chic touch paired with cool-girl tailored separates or denim," she says. They're a playful take on the trend in two other classic colors, priced at under $100.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: Three
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5.5-8, including half-sizes
What To Look for in the Best Ballet Flats
- Fabric: Most ballet flats on this list are made of leather or satin. These materials conform to your feet for extra comfort throughout the day. Choose flexible fabrics to prevent rubbing or pinching.
- Insole and Arch Support: Flat shoes often lack arch support, but many of the options on this list have insoles designed for comfort. From the office to after-work activities, these flats are perfect for extended wear.
- Fit: The key to comfy flats is finding the perfect fit—neither too tight nor too loose. Most items on this list fit true-to-size and offer half-sizes for convenience. Check reviews for firsthand sizing experiences, or look for brand sizing notes. We've indicated how each pair runs.
How to Style Ballet Flats
"The luxurious ballerina flat can elevate casual looks and also works well for evening events," says Richards. Celebrities and fashion insiders are embracing the surprise and delight of an unexpected silhouette. While a ballet flat may not feel the most formal compared to a heel, it adds a joyful touch to our outfits," she notes. Get inspired by Katie Holmes's navy midi dress with a pair of bright white flats, just like she did in June 2024.
Holmes styled her Mary-Jane flats with a navy-and-white midi dress while in New York City in June 2024. Her look is equal parts elevated and easy.
Veurnik has noticed metallic ballet flats on the rise this summer. "Plus, silver flats were made to be paired with light-wash denim," she says. Hailed as a day-to-night option for people who prefer to avoid heels, silver or gold options can make even the most classic outfits look slightly elevated.
They also lend themselves to special occasion wear. "I love seeing silver ones with formal gowns for wedding looks," she says.
Eva Chen proves the everyday appeal of a metallic ballet flat in New York City during Fashion Week.
Meet The Fashion Experts
Jessica Richards is a trend forecaster, style storyteller, and founder of JMR Trend + Creative, whose synergistic focus inspires what is now and next. With an extensive background in forecasting, concepts, and design for major North American retailers, she brings a forward-thinking yet commercial and brand-right viability to projects across the fashion and wellness
industries.
Erika is a writer covering fashion, beauty, and wellness. She has an MFA in Nonfiction Writing from Bennington College and contributes to outlets such as The Cut, Vogue, AD, and Coveteur. She also writes the Long Live Substack, a weekly newsletter on her passion for shopping secondhand.
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