There's just something about ballet flats. This classic shoe, arguably made famous by Chanel and their two-tone styles, just keeps coming back and proving its fashion credentials. When I was a teen, the shoe was starting to slip out of the popularity it enjoyed in the early Noughts, and suddenly seemed a bit too delicate and dated for daily wear. But over the past year or so, with flat shoes climbing back to the top of the footwear charts, this design has had a major resurgence, and is now firmly among the 2024 capsule wardrobe staples.
Part of its resurgence has involved an evolution in the aesthetic. While minimalist black styles and fresh versions of the nude-and-black-toe are undisputed classics that can work with a multitude of outfits, this season there's plenty of exciting new looks to explore. From Mary-Jane inspired flats with delicate cross-straps to patent designs with a contemporary square toe, there's a ballet flat to suit every personal style.
But how to style them? Well, our favourite influencers have been sharing plenty of enviable outfit inspiration that proves that a ballet flat can complete almost any outfit, whether you're wearing jeans and a jumper for running errands or dressing up in a long slip for an evening event. Here, I've picked nine of the best examples and found the best pieces to replicate these impressive outfits. Scroll on to get inspired to embrace this French women-approved classic.
1. Jumper + Wide-Leg Trousers
Style Notes: For chillier spring days, balancing billowing white trousers with a cosy jumper is an ideal look. And the understated black ballet flat complements the subtle minimalism of the whole look—leaving you plenty of opportunity to get creative with other accessories, if you so choose.
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No one will believe these are a high street find.
Such a wardrobe staple — tie over a white t-shirt if the sun peeps out.
Polished perfection.
Yes, it's time to refresh your sunglasses collection.
2. Wide-Leg Jeans + Stripes
Style Notes: Why not go full Parisian and embrace the classic Breton stripe this spring? Put a modern spin on the look by opting for a red stripe, and stay in theme with a wide-leg jean and black ballet flat. Very Jane Birkin.
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These Seventies-inspired jeans are so flattering.
The staple team so many of our editors swear by.
Perfect for layering over your t-shirt, or tying over your shoulders.
I'm really into the square toe look.
I'm determined to get my hands on a Dragon Diffusion woven bag this year.
3. Maxi Dress + Cardigan
Style Notes: Tylynn's outfit proves that a ballet flat can be the dreamiest finishing touch for a dressier look. This slip maxi, cardigan and ballet flat combination could work for so many different occasions this season.
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Such a luxe dress.
Mary Janes are another top shoe style this year, and this Aeyde pair is a brilliant ballet flat crossover.
A delicate knit to guard against the chill.
4. Straight-Leg Jeans + Cardigan
Style Notes: Cardigans-as-tops, especially styled with jeans, is a Parisian-approved look that is quickly becoming a cult style this season. So of course you need a pair of ballet flats to complete the look. This outfit is particularly well suited to those who don't want to give up their favourite black pieces this spring.
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I will forever be a fan of M&S knitwear.
The versatile jean that everyone needs.
How gorgeous are these? They're the perfect flat for day or night.
The sleekest bag.
5. Mini Dress
Style Notes: Tamara has me longing for summer days with this look. Swapping sandals for two-tone ballet flats is such a chic way to elevate a simple, summery LBD.
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A linen dress is a really sophisticated summer style.
The pair to go for if you're not ready to take the plunge with a Chanel pair.
Alighieri's delicate, textured gold jewellery is just as beautiful on its own as it is layered.
6. Black Trousers + Cardigan + Mesh Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Not such a fan of the classic leather ballet pump? Enter the mesh ballet flat, which has already been co-signed by the likes of Jennifer Lawrence and Sofia Richie. Alaïa's fishnet Mary-Jane ballet pump may be the original star, but thanks to its popularity there are plenty of new pairs to choose from.
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This sculptural cardigan feels very Scandi-inspired.
Black wide-leg trousers are a wardrobe must-have.
The mesh will contrast so beautifully with the elegant trousers.
7. Pedal Pushers + Trench Coat + Metallic Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Yes, pedal pushers really are back. If you want to go more Audrey-Hepburn-in-capri-pants than early Noughties pop star, you can't go wrong with pairing yours with ballet flats and an oversized trench. For a modern spin, follow Annabel's example by opting for a statement metallic shoe.
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The draping on this trench is deliciously good.
The perfect entry pair of pedal pushers.
A statement touch.
8. Jeans + Knitted Vest
Style Notes: A knitted vest is a loyal wardrobe friend for transitional season dressing, and while this look would also work with loafers, a ballet flat just makes it look that bit more polished.
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This delicate blue is irresistible.
One of my all-time favourite pairs of jeans.
These have a really chic French vibe.
9. Mini Skirt + Polo Top
Style Notes: This look is the fashion crossover of LA, London and Paris. The mini denim skirt, the polo shirt, and the ballet pumps? It's just so cool.
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A modern take on the classic polo shirt.
A dark blue denim skirt is trés Parisienne.
I'm really into the square toe take on the classic two-tone flat.
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