Are ballet flats in style again?

Ballet flats are making a comeback simply because they're timeless and versatile. They add a touch of elegance to every outfit and they tend to be more comfortable than heels.

When were ballet flats trendy?

Although the ballet flat was undoubtedly wildly popular in the 2000s , the simple shoe's place in fashion of course dates back much further than this to the 1950s, which is when the pump first took on a new life away from dance.

Are ballet flats out of style in 2024?

From the stage to Audrey Hepburn and contemporary fashion muses, ballet flats have secured their status as a timeless wardrobe essential. In 2024 it turns out this hasn't changed , but the surprising ways you can style ballet flats is in the spotlight and puts a fresh spin on this classic.

Does Gen Z wear flats?

Gen Zers on TikTok also named the shoes some of the trendiest for fall 2023. To this day, just about every shoe manufacturer sells its version of the shoes — fishnet flats are especially popular this summer — models are still wearing them down runways , and TikTok videos about flats are still going viral this summer.

Can you wear ballet flats with jeans?

Everyone always asks what shoes you should wear with skinny jeans. For an on-trend look, you can't go wrong with flats. Whether you have mules, ballet flats or summery sandals, pairing your flats with skinny jeans is a fail-safe way to feel put together .

What kind of flats are in style?

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.

What ballet flats did Audrey Hepburn wear?

The brand of flats that Audrey Hepburn famously wore is Salvatore Ferragamo . Reportedly, the Italian fashion designer custom designed each pair of ballet flats for the actress himself.

What can I wear instead of ballet flats?

Loafers . A chunky loafer won't give you a similar vibe to a ballet flat, but if you can find something with a delicate silhouette, like these, you won't be far off. The key is to look for a vamp – that's the bit of the shoe on the top of your foot – that doesn't come up too far; it's a bit more leg lengthening.

Will ballet flats stay in fashion?

Ballet flats will always be on trend , so there's no need to ask, “are ballet flats still in style in 2024?” And if you're wondering how to wear flats, read on for a guide on effortlessly embracing this perennial footwear trend in 2024, featuring captivating, modern takes on the classic footwear.

Is mesh in style in 2024?

We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. Mesh shoes have undoubtedly become one of the biggest footwear trends of summer 2024 . So it was only a matter of time before mesh bags caught on with the masses as well.

From L.A. to Paris, It Girls Are Swapping Their Ballet Flats for This Heeled Alt (2024)

From L.A. to Paris, It Girls Are Swapping Their Ballet Flats for This Heeled Alt (1)

The fashionable influence of ballet flats on an ensemble is undeniable. More often than not, they serve as the perfect final touch to an aspirational French-girl outfit. However, a new style in footwear is gaining popularity among women in Europe and America. (Think Kaia Gerber, Jennifer Lawrence, and Jameela Jamil.) Meet ballet pumps, a sophisticated and elegant alternative to the aforementioned flats we've all come to know and love.

For quite some time, ballet flats have been a dominant force in street fashion. Nevertheless, fashion enthusiasts have started to explore more refined and elevated options as understated luxury and opulent aesthetics become more popular, leading to the surge of ballet pumps.

From L.A. to Paris, It Girls Are Swapping Their Ballet Flats for This Heeled Alt (2)

Ballet pumps, also known as block-heel pumps, combine the graceful shape of classic ballet flats with the addition of a 1.5-inch heel or higher. Despite the heel, these shoes maintain comfort and versatility. They serve as an excellent choice for transitioning between seasons and effortlessly enhancing a wide range of outfits, from relaxed pants and trench coats to A-line dresses and cozy cardigans. One popular styling choice that's catching on is the preppy-athletic look, which involves pairing ballet pumps with a polo shirt, a skirt, and ribbed socks or a tailored blazer with a midi pencil skirt and metal-frame eyewear.

While some brands have offered ballet pumps for seasons, others have perfected their styles more recently. From Steve Madden's cult-favorite Cherish heels to Prada's cutout design that was seen on the runway and Jeffrey Campbell's modern buckle iteration, ballet pumps have become a staple footwear style among our favorite retailers.

From L.A. to Paris, It Girls Are Swapping Their Ballet Flats for This Heeled Alt (3)

They're ideal for the summer-to-fall transition, so read on to discover our edit of the best ballet pumps to shop now.

Shop our favorite ballet pumps:

Jeffrey Campbell

Trustee Pumps

These look so expensive. The toe shape is classic and elegant, and the rounded heel adds a touch of extravagance.

Steve Madden

Cherish Red Patent Slip-On Heels

A bunch of Who What Wear editors own these, which says a lot. The hardest part is choosing between cherry red, black, ivory, and silver.

Repetto

Camille Ballerinas

Repetto's ballet pumps have taken TikTok by storm—over three million users have created videos about them. Grab a pair to see what all the hype is about.

Nine West

Saruh Pumps

This budget-friendly option provides the perfect look without emptying your wallet. It has all the ideal design elements, featuring a subtle square toe, a small block heel, and a tied bow.

Tory Burch

Georgia Pumps

These would work with everything from tailored pants to a maxi skirt.

Reformation

Betsy Pumps

This pair exudes modern style with its mesh design and rounded toe.

COACH

Ava Ballet Pump

Your friends will say you look *so rich* when you wear these.

Jeffrey Campbell

Dancerie Cap Toe Pumps

The beige-and-black color-blocking is giving Chanel vibes without the Chanel price tag.

Vagabond Shoemakers

Debbi Pumps

I got these last month, and yep, they look just as expensive IRL as they do online.

Time and Tru

Ballet Block Heel Pumps

Run, don't walk, because these are $20. Yes, you read that right.

Prada

Patent Saffiano Leather Pumps

I have an unhealthy fascination with these. The sleek toe and puffy triangle logo are pure perfection.

Everlane

The Day Heels

Everlaneshoppers love these comfortableheels, which is why they keep selling out. Snag them while they're still in stock.

Maeve

Heeled Ballet Pumps

This pair is perfect due to the white-and-black color-blocking, a fashion trend that gains popularity every fall.

Margaux

The Heel

This style is so simple yet so elevated. Take this pair towork, events, and everything in between.

Franco Sarto

Natalia Block Heel Pumps

Shoppers absolutely adore these shoes because of the on-trend square toe and beautiful bow detail, which pays homage to classic ballet flats.

COACH

Ava Signature Jacquard Pump

I'm not normally one for a logo on my shoes, but something about this designer pair feels tasteful.

Veronica Beard

Cecile Square Toe Pumps

It doesn't get more fall coded than a pair of crocodile-print ballet pumps.

Ayede

Off-White Delia Ballerina Flats

I'm in my elegant era, and Ayede's luxurious footwear fits the bill.

Prada

Modellerie Mary Jane Pumps

These Mary Jane ballet pumps are absolutely delightful. They feature a charming gold Prada logo on the toe and a luxurious gold buckle across the top of the foot, adding a touch of elegance to the classic design.

Calvin Klein

Lenott Pointed Toe Pumps

Calvin Klein's iteration is a timeless choice. It's replete with clean, minimalistic details, like the soft suede composition and low block heel.

MAISON MARGIELA

Tabi Split-Toe Leather Ballet Flats

The Maison Margiela Tabi style has captivated the fashion world, and its unique silhouette attracts fashion enthusiasts in droves. Whether it's the iconic Tabi boots, elegant ballet flats, or stylish ballet pumps, this distinctive design has the power to instantly elevate anyone's look to high-fashion status.

Kate Spade

Bowdie Leather Pumps

This preppy style would look so cute paired with a polo shirt, a pleated skirt, and socks.

Flattered

Angela Heels

I've had my eye on this pair for a while because of the soft suede composition and sleek V-cup vamp.

Jimmy Choo

Elme Square Toe Ballet Pumps

This style stands out from the rest because of its eye-catching pearl and crystal embellishments.

Gianvito Rossi

Piper Pumps

Gianvito Rossi is celebrated for its elegant, refined, and enduring creations, exemplified by this particular pair. In addition to being a favorite of Kate Middleton, the brand boasts a following among notable celebrities such as Dua Lipa, Chrissy Teigen, and Daisy Edgar-Jones.

Explore More:

Ballet FlatsHeelsComfortable HeelsKitten Heels

From L.A. to Paris, It Girls Are Swapping Their Ballet Flats for This Heeled Alt (2024)

Shop our favorite ballet pumps:

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