The 29 Best Ballet Flats of 2024, According to a Trend Forecaster
Ballet flats have finally offered fashion enthusiasts a far more comfortable (and risk-averse) option to heels, cementing themselves as one of 2024’s biggest shoe trends. They’ve never gone dormant, but their resurgence on the Spring 2024 runways has also awarded flat lovers with multiple styles for summer.
Pointed-toe flat versions appeared at Gabriela Hearst in New York and peppered 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 later co-signed by Katie Holmes, who wore a silver pair in New York City. Mesh flat variations also appeared on 3.1 Philip Lim and Proenza Schouler’s New York City runways and are beloved by Jennifer Lawrence.
In short, they’ve grown up—and show no sign of slowing down. That is, according to Jessica Richards, Trend Forecaster and founder of JMR Trend and Creative. “The [ballet flat] trend is one of the strongest footwear trends we’ve seen in a long time,” she tells Marie Claire. In the future, she sees the trend focusing on more sophisticated silhouettes that command the authority of a loafer. “It speaks to consumers’ demands for uncompromised wearability.”
This is a thought echoed by fashion writer and self-proclaimed ballet flat super fan Erika Veurnik, who prefers flats as the ideal summer shoe. “Ballet flats are a dressed-up version of a sandal and a sneaker,” she says. “I reach for them instead of these two styles when I want my outfit to feel a little more refined.”
Summer’s 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 invest in for this summer and beyond.
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.
(Image credit: 3.1 Phillip Lim; Versace; Tove)
Marie Claire’s Favorite Ballet Flats
Shop The Best Ballet Flats
Best Overall Ballet Flats
Sam Edelman Felicia Ballet Flat
These classic soft leather and padded sole ballet flats from Sam Edelman are available in two different colors on Nordstrom’s website, so you’re bound to find one that suits you. 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?: 2
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 4-14, including most half-sizes
Best Affordable Ballet Flats
Amazon Essentials Women’s Belice Ballet Flats
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. 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
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-15, including half-sizes
Best Ballet Flats For Work
Everlane The Italian Leather Day Glove
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.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 10
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-11, including half-sizes
Best Designer Ballet Flats
Prada Leather Twist Floral Ballerina Flats
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?: 1
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-12, including half-sizes
Best Pointed-Toe Ballet Flat
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.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 34
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-13, including half-sizes
Best Mary-Jane Ballet Flats
Madewell Greta Ballet Flat
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 styled edgy, but I prefer to let them be their sweet selves 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.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 9
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-12, including half-sizes
Best Mesh Ballet Flats
Alaia Mesh Mary Jane Ballerina Flats
Dua Lipa is a fan of these black mesh flats from Alaia, 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. They come in a few colors, but the classic black iteration will stand the test of time.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 2
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-12, including half-sizes
More Ballet Flats We Love
Best Ballet Flats With Hardware
Tory Burch Georgia Ballet Flat
Tory Burch’s flats are just as popular now as they ever were, except now you can shop them with this cool gold hardware at the top. 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, which is okay, considering they come in half sizes.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 5
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-13, including half-sizes
Best Slingback Ballet Flats
Carel Peche Mary Jane Slingback Ballerina Flats
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. Style this glossy pair with jeans or with a mini skirt for a mod, ’60s-inspired vibe.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 1
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-10, including half-sizes
Best Ergonomic Ballet Flat
Free People Gemini Ballet Flats
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 to shop in 5 colors 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?: 6
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 6-11, including most half-sizes
Best Classic Ballet Flats
J.Crew Zoe Ballet Flats in Leather
J.Crew continues to deliver a selection of perfectly elevated basics season after season—case in point: This pair of ballet flats that comes 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?: 2
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-12, including most half-sizes
Best Red Ballet Flats
Mansur Gavriel Square Toe Ballerina Flat
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 the one behind Katie Holmes’ favorite tote bag, but I recommend checking out their shoe selection, too. These are made from soft, moldable leather that become even comfier with wear. The higher vamp also cuts down on toe cleavage (if that’s not your thing!). You can even add a custom monogram for a special touch.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 9
What’s the Size Range?: EU Sizes 35-42, including most half-sizes
Best Brown Ballet Flat
Eledera The Quadra Ballerina
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 shades of breezy woven leather for spring. 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?: 6
What’s the Size Range?: EU Sizes 36-41
Best Comfortable Ballet Flats
Birdies Goldfinch Pointed Toe Flat
The perfect pair of comfortable ballet flats can instantly make any outfit better. 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.”
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 16
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-12, including half-sizes
Best Summery Ballet Flats
Jeffrey Campbell Mesh Mary Jane Flat
It doesn’t get more warm-weather appropriate than this pair of mesh flats from Jeffrey Campbell. Top rated for their comfort, they’re 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.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 7
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-10, including half-sizes
Best Silver Ballet Flats
Larroude Blair Ballet Flat in Silver Specchio
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 pick. The mirrored finish will attract your inner magpie, while the sweet Mary-Jane silhouette adds a sweeter touch.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 9
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-11, including half-sizes
Best Embellished Ballet Flats
Loeffler Randall Leonie Crystal Mesh Ballet Flats
Set your heels aside and opt for this formal pair of ballet flats from Loeffler Randall instead. They’re one of the best spring shoes because of the sweet pastel colorway, and have a dressy element with the delicate stone accents. Available in other 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?: 6
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-11, including half-sizes
Best Celebrity-Adored Ballet Flats:
The Row Sock Shoe in Nylon
Celebrated for their minimalist styles, it makes sense that The Row would hop onto the mesh shoe trend in their own way. 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.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 1
What’s the Size Range?: EU Sizes 35-42
Best Ruched Ballet Flats
Venice Leather Slingback Ballerina Flats
The ruching on this black-and-white ballet flat is offset by a square toe inspired by the ’90s,, creating a soft and sleek effect. The white iteration is perfect for warmer weather while they’re available in a poppy red.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 5
What’s the Size Range?: 5-13, including half-sizes
Best Satin Ballet Flats
Aeyde Gabriella Satin Ballet Flats
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 easily, but you’ll look just as cool. For an edgier look, shop them in a leather fabrication.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 8
What’s the Size Range?: EU Sizes 36-42
Best Printed Ballet Flats
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.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 13
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 3-14, including half-sizes
Best Lace-Up Ballet Flats
Dolce Vita X for Love & Lemons Beate Flat
These pale pink lace-up slippers from Dolce Vita’s collaboration with For Love & Lemons also gives the illusion of a ballet shoe. The satin lining has a soft, rub-free quality, so dancing isn’t out of the question.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 1
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 6-10, including half-sizes
Best Viral Ballet Flats
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?: 1
What’s the Size Range?: EU sizes 35-41
Best Velvet Ballet Flats
VIBI Velvet Mary Jane Ballerina Flats
Velvet flats are also going viral on social media—and this one costs under $200. These feminine flats can be styled with a skirt or dress, but they would also work equally 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?: 2
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-11
Best Ballet Flats for Wide Feet
If you have wide feet, pointed-toe shoes don’t always work. That’s why this pair from Franco Sarto is perfect if you do. The wider design in the toe, the higher coverage, and the soft leather fabrication will all be comfortable on foot. You can also shop them in two widths so you can customize your perfect fit. Reviewers love them for their lack of break-in period.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 9
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-13, including most half-sizes
Best Cap-Toed Ballet Flats
Stuart Weitzman Sleek Bicolor Bow Ballerina Flats
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. The butter-yellow-and-black colorway is worth the investment for its styling versatility.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 13
What’s the Size Range?: US Sizes 5-12, including half-sizes
Best Cult-Favorite Ballet Flats
Jamie Haller The Ballet Slipper in Black
“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 black leather, this pair is worth the investment thanks to its classic shape and colorway.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 6
What’s the Size Range?: EU Sizes 35-42
Best Ballerina-Inspired Flats
“There’s a bit of fantasy when you design into silhouette this literally,” says Richards of these silky Mary Janes. “These are so evocative of my childhood ballet slippers that made me feel like a princess. Now they serve as a sweet and chic touch paired with cool-girl tailored separates or denim,” she says. Available in two colors and priced at under $100, they’re a playful take on the trend.
How Many Colors Do They Come In?: 3
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 crafted from leather or satin. These materials mold to your feet for added comfort throughout the day. Opt for flexible fabrics to avoid rubbing or pinching.
- Insole and Arch Support: Flat shoes often lack arch support, but many of the options on this list feature insoles designed for comfort. From the office to after work obligations, these flats are perfect for extended wear.
- Fit: Most items on this list fit true-to-size and offer half-sizes for convenience. The key to comfy flats is finding the perfect fit—neither too tight nor too loose. 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 luxe ballerina flat elevates casual looks, but also works as an option for evening events,” says Richards. “Celebrities [and fashion insiders] are embracing the surprise and delight of an unexpected silhouette, so while a ballet flat may feel like the wrong formal shoe, it gives a joie de vivre to our looks,” she notes. Channel Katie Holmes’s recent look by teaming a navy midi dress with a pair of bright white flats, as 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.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
One trend Veurnik sees growing this summer is metallic ballet flats. Hailed as a day-to-night option for people who prefer to avoid heels, opting for silver or gold options can make even the most classic outfits look a touch elevated—even if you’re just wearing them to work this summer.
But they don’t necessarily have to be styled for every day. “I love seeing silver ones with formal gowns for wedding looks, Veurnik tells Marie Claire. “Plus, silver flats were made to be paired with light wash denim.”
Eva Chen proves the everyday appeal of a metallic ballet flat in New York City during Fashion Week.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Meet The Fashion Experts
Jessica Richards
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Trend Forecaster & Founder, JMR Trend + Creative
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 commercially and brand-right viability to projects across the fashion and wellness
industries.
Erika Veurink
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Writer
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.
