11 best ballet flats to buy this season
Ballet flats are back and we’ve rounded up the styles you’ll be wearing on repeat this year – including a pair that Alexa Chung loves.
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Love it or hate it — ballet flats are back.
The staple shoe of the 2000s has had a resurgence in popularity — but with a chic update that makes them feel decidedly fresh.
“Along with the classic round toe ballet flat we are also seeing pointed and square toe ballet flats making their own mark,” explains THE ICONIC’s head of style Nicole Adolphe to news.com.au.
Our favourites?
The Margot Mary Jane flats by American brand VIVAIA are my new obsession. Not only are they legitimately the comfiest ballet flats I have ever worn, but they have also been spotted on my style icon, Alexa Chung, making me feel much oh so much cooler.
We've also been loving the Rothy's The Flat shoes that Meghan Markle herself actually wore in Melbourne during the 2018 Royal Tour. I've actually got a pair myself because if they're good enough for royalty, they're good enough for me. And I can confirm they are incredibly chic, versatile and super comfy.
Interested in more? Scroll on for our full round-up of the best ballet flats this season.
OUR TOP PICKS
EDITOR'S PICK
Why we love it: Comfortable insole with arch support
What to consider: While the green is on trend, it's not necessarily timeless
Material: Knit upper made from plastic bottles | Colour: Forest green | Size: EU 35 to 43
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
Gone are the days when you'd get home after wearing a pair of ballet flats all day with your feet in agony. These Mary Jane shoes from VIVAIA are 2024's answer to all your prayers. The knit upper is made of recycled plastic bottles and features an incredibly comfortable insole crafted from natural Artemisia Argyi herbal. The extra padding around the arch is seriously game-changing.
I have very flat feet and normally struggle with ballet flats but I've had zero issues when wearing these all day at the office. I once saw a podiatrist who told me to never again wear flats with such bad support so I'm so happy to find some that a) are stylish and b) I'm allowed to wear. There was also zero break-in time with no rubbing at my heels or toes either. And, there is a wide style available too.
It also has thousands of five-star reviews online.
"These are perfect for both wide and narrow feet. Feels like walking on a cloud. The straps are adjustable as well. It feels like walking without shoes but better," wrote one happy customer.
Another said "If you’re looking for a pair of flats that are as comfortable as they are pretty, these are the shoes for you. They are perfect for anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet but doesn’t want to sacrifice style for comfort. Highly recommend!"
Why we love it: Made from sustainable materials
What to consider: Fairly expensive for non-leather shoes
Material: Knit from Rothy’s signature thread, which is spun from single-use plastic bottles | Colour: 12 options available | Size: 5 to 13
Tried and Tested by Philippa Tonkin, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
You can't get more classic than a pair of black ballet flats and this pick from Rothy's is at the top of our list. Not only are they incredibly chic and versatile but they're actually made from recycled plastic bottles. Yes, you read that right. Rothy's is committed to sustainability and these shoes are spun from about 11 plastic bottles. The knit material is also super comfy and means that the rubbing you often get from a new leather (or fake leather) ballet flat, isn't there.
Plus, they're also royal-approved. Meghan Markle wore these shoes in Melbourne when she was here for the Royal Tour in 2018. The day she wore these shoes involved a beach visit as well as multiple meet and greets so they're clearly comfy enough for a full day's walking.
Still need more convincing? The shoes are currently rated 4.5 stars from over 26,500 reviews.
Happy customers call them the "most comfortable flats ever" and that it "feels like wearing slippers".
"I have to say I was sceptical. I mean how can a pair of flats be comfortable the first time wearing them?!?! Well, I was wrong. These shoes were not only comfortable the first time, but I have never gotten a blister and I am a restaurant manager. I am hard on shoes! I will definitely be buying more of these! Thank you for making something that is worth the money!" wrote one five-star review.
And, they are machine washable. What more could you want?
BEST LEATHER BALLET FLATS
Ballet, $179.95 at Rollie Nation
Why we love it: Super soft leather so don't have to wear them in
What to consider: Leather shoes can be harder to care for
Material: Leather | Colour: Six colours available | Size: EU 35 to 43
What You Need To Know
Combining comfort with style are these timeless ballet flats by Rollie Nation. Made from soft premium leather with a tumbled finish, these Australian-designed flats feature a chic round toe, back heel tab with logo detailing, anti-slip rubber sole and cushy EVA midsoles for maximum comfort. They’re easy to slip on, flexible and soft to the touch – making them ideal for work and when you’re out and about all day, all night.
Earning a 4.6-star rating, five-star reviewers say they’re “soft and comfy” and "so versatile".
“These shoes are so soft and comfortable to wear. Like walking on clouds. Perfect for work and then also into the evening. Love my new shoes,” one wrote.
“Super soft leather – perfect for summer. These are so wonderful to wear it doesn’t even feel like I am wearing shoes. These are super lightweight,” another wrote.
They’re also available in crystal, light pink, silver, red rust and gold.
Country Road Claudia Ballet 2.0, $129 at Myer
Why we love it: Sweet bow detail on a timeless everyday staple
What to consider: Leather outsole can be less comfortable to walk on
Material: Leather | Colour: Two options | Size: EU 35 to 42
What You Need To Know
We couldn’t go past these Country Road ballet flats — they’re a classic style and great value for leather shoes. Made from responsibly sourced leather, they have a 0.9cm heel and a padded insole for comfort. The original Claudia style has 450 five star reviews on Country Road’s website while this new 2.0 style has shoppers saying it is “just as good as the old one” and that they are the most comfortable flats (they) have worn".
Forcast Women's Lizbeth Leather Ballet Flat, $119.99 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Easy to pair with most clothing
What to consider: Not overly comfortable
Material: Leather | Colour: Only black | Size: 4 to 10
What You Need to Know
These classic ballet flats by Forcast combine fashion, style and much-needed comfort to create a versatile shoe that works beautifully with your wardrobe. A soft and breathable leather upper and lining make them a pleasure to wear all year round, while the iconic design in chic black with a super cute central bow will go with just about every outfit. The slightly rounded square toe is also seriously on trend, making these ballet flats an easy way to upgrade your wardrobe. These ballet flats also have a toplift heel and tab for added comfort.
The Day Ballet Flat, $252 at Everlane
Why we love it: On trend square toe
What to consider: White can get dirty quickly
Material: Leather | Colour: Five leather optinos and one mesh | Size: 5 to 11
What You Need To Know
Made from super soft recycled leather and featuring a cushioned insole, not only are these flats fashionable but they’re practical too. With a sculptural square toe and higher throatline, these ballerina flats will see you through work and the weekend.
Verali Bambi Mary-Jane Flats, $59.95 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Fun on trend silver colourway
What to consider: Made from PU
Material: PU | Colour: Six options | Size: 36 to 41
What You Need To Know
This stunning silver pair by Verali is a refreshing option compared to your classic black and beige. It features a round toe, PU upper and lining, 5mm heel and a strap with buckle fastening. They’re perfect for elevating any look and will easily take your outfits from day to night.
BEST NON-LEATHER BALLET FLATS
Rubi Amy Round Mary Jane Ballet, $20 (down from $49.99) at Cotton On
Why we love it: Super affordable take on the current mesh trend
What to consider: Not a timeless buy
Material: Polyester and polyurethane | Colour: Four options available | Size: EU 36 to 41
What You Need To Know
If you know, you know - all the it girls are wearing mesh ballet flats and now's your chance to hop on the trend for less. Featuring a breathable mesh upper, adjustable strap and round toe, this pair from Cotton On is a near-perfect dupe for the cult designer Alaia flats and it costs a fraction of the price.
BEST DESIGNER BALLET FLAT DUPES
ASOS DESIGN Los Angeles ruched ballet flats with elastic strap in rose, $34 at ASOS
Why we love it: Near perfect dupe for Miu Miu
What to consider: Satin upper isn't very durable
Material: Textile upper | Colour: Four options | Size: EU 35 to 43
What You Need To Know
Arguably one of the hottest shoes right now, the Miu Miu satin ballet flats are perhaps the perfect shoe. But at $1300, they’re also out of our price range. Enter: ASOS. These amazing dupes are oh so cute, and we can’t get enough. Featuring a glossy, satin-style material, they are literally the embodiment of balletcore.
BEST DESIGNER BALLET FLATS
Maison Margiela Tabi Ballerina Shoes, $1105 at Net-a-Porter
Why we love it: Wxtremel popular with fashion girls right now
What to consider: Very controversial style
Material: Leather | Colour: Secen options | Size: EU 35 to 41
What You Need To Know
Controversial? Of course. But that’s the point when it comes to Tabis. Adored by the fashion world, these shoes have taken the stylish elite by storm this past season. There’s no doubt the questionable shoe is having its moment in the sun so why not jump on the bandwagon? Made from lambskin leather, these Tabis will last for years.
MOST COMFORTABLE BALLET FLATS
Active Flex Belamy Flat Shoes, $159.95 at Myer
Why we love it: Low wedge sole for extra comfort
What to consider: Not overly on trend
Material: Leather | Colour: Four options | Size: EU 36 to 42
What You Need To Know
These shoes are ideal for anyone who wants the ballet flat look but needs extra foot support. The leather shoe has a 2.5cm wedge heel and supportive sole as well as a round toe and bow embellishment.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING BALLET FLATS
When choosing ballet flats to include in our list, we evaluated several factors:
Material: Are the shoes made from leather or a material that allows for breathability.
Comfort and fit: While ballet flats are never going to be as comfortable as a pair of running shoes we made sure to check reviews for ones shoppers say are fairly comfy.
Cost: While we can't all afford designer flats, making sure that you're getting something worth the money you spend is important.
Trendy or timeless: We included a mix between trendy picks like the Margiela Tabis and the mesh flats as well as classic picks like black leather options.
Sustainability: Are the shoe made from sustainable materials?
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
To help you find the best ballet flat for your needs and budget, we asked THE ICONIC’s head of style Nicole Adolphe for her expert advice and recommendations on what to look for when buying a ballet flat. In addition, our shopping team read hundreds of customer reviews and looked at test results and ratings from product review sites to find the best ballet flat from premium to budget to help you find the right one.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW TO STYLE BALLET FLATS
“Ballet flats are a really versatile wardrobe staple and a much more comfortable alternative to wearing heels at work,” Nicole said.
“They add a French touch paired with jeans, a striped tee and a trench coat, and can just as easily be worn with a puff sleeve midi dress.
“I also love the look of pairing ballet flats with a knitted jumper and a bright silk bias cut skirt.”
WHAT ARE THE MOST POPULAR BALLET FLAT STYLES?
According to Nicole, the most popular ballet flat style at THE ICONIC right now is a “classic black ballet flat with a bow”. She recommends the Spurr Koren Ballet Flats.
Need a new pair of rain boots? Shop these best-selling ones that have more than 6000 five star reviews or read our roundup of the best white sneakers.
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