Fashion trends come and go, and we’ve seen a whole host of shoe styles go in and out of style, only before coming back once more. And for 2024, thanks to the ever-popular Chanel ballet flats and Miu Miu ballet flats with straps, the comfy shoes are back in the spotlight – and our feet are very okay with it.
While we can’t sleep on the power of a sky-high stiletto or platform heel, this timeless shoe is the antidote to sore ankles and blistered heels. Providing sophistication and comfort, it’s a style that makes a statement without sacrificing practicality or walkability – taking you from the school run to after-work drinks with ease.
For the past couple of years, ballet flats’ rising popularity has been slowly but surely transitioning the style from a goes-around-comes-around trend to a solid wardrobe staple. The best part of the ballet pump is how versatile it is, you can pair it with just about everything; oversized blazers, dresses, skirts and so much more.
Celebs such as Rihanna, Alexa Chung and Emily Ratajkowski have been strutting about in the chic French girl staple with everything from bright red dresses to oversized jumpers. What used to be a boring flat shoe has been updated with modern shapes (we’re partial to the square-toe), unexpected textures, bold colours and embellishment.
Ready to add a pair to your wardrobe? We’ve rounded up our favourite styles below.
SHOP: The best ballet flats for women for as low as £15
New Look Gold Leather-Look Bow Ballet Pumpswww.newlook.com
Not a fan of hard-to-walk-in heels? A pair of statement metallic flats are perfect for wearing on your next night out if you don’t want to compromise on comfort.
Bershka Mesh Ballet Flats With Buckleswww.bershka.com
You won’t have to worry about your ballet flats slipping off thanks to a sleek double strap. Cut from a mesh fabric, these look so similar to the Alaia ballet flats, but at a fraction of that £650 price tag.
New Look Red Leather-Look Strappy Ballerina Pumpswww.newlook.com
Red ballet flats are on-trend at the moment, and these leather-look ballerinas will give any outfit some punch. They are perfect for pairing with straight-leg jeans and an oversized shirt, but they’re also the perfect pair to try out the ballet flats and socks trend with.
River Island Blue Denim Studded Bow Ballet Pumpswww.riverisland.com
These blue denim pumps from River Island are the kind of shoes you can wear from work to drinks with ease. They’re super elegant without compromising on any of the comfort you’ll need for a busy day.
La Redoute Leopard Print Ballet Flatswww.laredoute.co.uk
Leopard print is all the rage right now, and the trending print comes in a classic silhouette with these square toe pumps. They’re a great everyday option.
Pull & Bear Studded Ballet Flatswww.pullandbear.com
Wear these black ballet flats to add a stylish touch to everyday looks throughout the week, such as straight-leg denim or easy-tailored trousers. They’re also pretty damn close design-wise to Isabel Marant’s cult fave ballet flats featuring the same pointed toe, slick black colourway, and studded detail.
Pretty Little Thing Black Bow Quilted Ballet Pumpswww.prettylittlething.com
If your budget is really tight, this PLT pair is fairly similar to the classic quilted Chanel ballet flats and come in at just £15. Win-win.
John Lewis Leather Pointed Toe Ballerina Pumpswww.johnlewis.com
From the pointed toe and almond milk colour to the soft leather material, these look and feel expensive. They’d look amazing with straight-leg jeans and dresses alike.
Nasty Gal Crinkle Metallic Ballet Flatswww.boohoo.com
These on-trend flats have all the wow factor of a high heel without any of the discomfort. They’re at the top of our wishlist.
ASOS Design Lavish Premium Leather Mary Jane Ballet Flatswww.asos.com
You can never go wrong with a classic tan ballet flat. We’ll be dressing up our baggy jeans with this chic pair.
River Island Black Mesh Studded Mary Jane Ballet Pumpswww.riverisland.com
Dress these studded mesh ballet flats up for evenings out with a midi, or down for everyday wear with denim; either way, they’re a must-have.
Yours Orange Ballerina Pumpswww.yoursclothing.co.uk
Add some colour to your shoe-drobe with this orange iteration. These are a true standout pair. Plus, their simple style is so similar to the Repetto ballet flats!
Next Forever Comfort Ballerinas Shoes www.next.co.uk
These classic and comfortable nude pumps are ideal for every day. They also come in other colours.
Cider Bow Decor Square Toe Mary Jane Flatswww.shopcider.com
These patent shoes will look dreamy paired with cream trousers and dresses come springtime. There are many different colours to choose from, although the lilac shade is particularly good.