Not Loafers, Not Mules: The French-Girl Flats You'll Wear From Summer to Fall (and Beyond)
Summer 2026's buzziest shoe style? Ballet flats! It's easy to see why. A perennial favorite of the French, ballet flats offer comfort, ease, and elegance to every outfit—and are the perfect choice to wear day and night. Just one scroll of Instagram and you'll see that the classic shoe is everywhere this season. Cool girls and celebs alike have been styling the dependable flats with track shorts, slip skirts, babydoll dresses, you name it—proving that they're one of the most versatile shoes you can own. What's more, ballet flats are ideal to take you seamlessly from summer to fall—pairing just as well with layers, and tights as they do with lightweight summer pieces.
If you're looking to buy a new pair of ballet flats this season then there are plenty of stylish options this season in all shapes, fabrics, and spanning all budgets. From glove silhouettes to satin fabrics, high vamps, pops of color such as trend-forward blue and burgundy, to simple classic styles, below, I'm sharing some of my favorites to wear this season and beyond. One thing's for certain, you won't regret buying a pair.
Shop the best ballet flats
The ruching and bow detail make this exceptionally pretty.
A gorgeous hue that will take you into fall.
Le Monde Béryl ballet flats that you'll come back to again and again.
Blue hues are having a huge moment this fall.
Classic, modern, timeless.
Amp up your simple basics with this head-turning hue.
I just got these and I'm wearing them on repeat.
This sleek Zara pair is selling out fast.
Ballet flats that will *wow*.
They'll go with everything in your closet.
This high-vamp silhouette also comes in black and plum.
The perfect pair to lean into fall vibes.
In the know fashion girls are flocking to Christen's cool ballet flats.
These feel fresh for the new season.
Just add dark-wash straight-leg jeans and a henley sweater for a chic fall 2026 outfit.
Luxe looking.
Two-tone shoes will be everywhere this fall.
Margaux make great ballet flats, period.
Classy.
Leopard print is a classic in our eyes.
Supple leather ballet flats in a gorgeous rich hue.
Get in on the cap-toe trend.
If you want to invest in a pair for the upcoming season you can't go wrong with this velvet pair.
A stunning satin pair.
This color is surprisingly versatile.
Flats that stand out from the crowd.
Croc-effect ballet flats that will make your outfit look expensive.
