The best ballet flats have leaped from dance to fashion, becoming wardrobe essentials as timeless as a crisp white T-shirt or the perfect pair of jeans. (In fact, both of those picks would look great with some ballets.) After a few years in the background, the flats have returned to the spotlight in a big way. And now they’re available in new finishes and edgier silhouettes from possibly more brands than ever before, Karen Giberson, president of the Accessories Council, which represents some of the world’s most notable shoe brands, tells Glamour.
Hollywood royalty and actual royalty alike—like Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle, Rihanna, Zendaya, Katie Holmes, and Bella Hadid—have long had a soft spot for ballet flats, and interest has been fueled by the balletcore trend and effortlessly chic runway styling at brands like Miu Miu and Khaite. Finding the best ballet flats boils down to personal preference and need—are you looking for a classic comfortable, durable walking shoe that can survive unpredictable weather and log miles? Or do you want a trendy embellished option to pair with your wedding guest dress?
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. (Satin, meanwhile, works any time of year.) If you’re flat-footed or need additional arch support, look for a pair with cushioned insoles and elastic straps. And if you have narrow or wide feet, a pair of shoes with extended widths or that come in half sizes is ideal.
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 sequined pairs to tried-and-true leather options with bow accents.
Top 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 featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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1/19
Best Overall 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 subtle bow, a slightly raised vamp, and full-toe coverage. 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
Review: “These are among the most comfortable shoes I own, which has made them a total go-to.” — Elizabeth Siegel, Allure deputy beauty director -
2/19
Best Leather Ballet Flats: Mansur Gavriel Dream Ballerinas
Mansur Gavriel is the leather-focused brand behind some of out 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 ballets. 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.)
Sizes: 35–42 EU / Colors: 14 options / Material: Leather
Pros: Timeless look; tons of colors
Cons: Pricey
Review: “I’ve been wearing ballet flats for the past 20 years so I’ve gone through many pairs and I’m particular about the toe area being extra soft, or else they end up hurting my narrow feet, but these, like the name implies are a total dream. They’re ultra comfortable, flexible, and while I typically opt for ballerinas with a little less coverage, there’s something chic about these. I get tons of compliments whenever I wear them.” —Brie Schwartz, commerce director at GlamourSave on the best ballet flats with these Nordstrom promo codes and Bloomingdale’s promo codes.
