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The Best Ballet Flats to Wear Now and Always
Shop a host of fresh styles from minimalist to embellished
There’s something undeniably enduring about ballet flats. They’ve danced through decades, remaining a wardrobe constant—elegant, versatile, and chic without trying too hard. But this season, the best ballet flats for women are more than just a go-to for effortless sophistication. They’ve become the nonchalant shoe of choice among the style set, balancing demure grace with mindful, modern appeal.
Thanks to their right-now resurgence, the market is brimming with options that feel both timeless and of the moment. The classics remain beloved, of course. Think soft, bow-tie ballerinas that exude Parisian chic or the eternally sweet Mary Janes with their coquettish charm. But alongside these time-honored designs, a host of fresh silhouettes has emerged, each offering a contemporary twist on this iconic shoe.
The Best Ballet Flats for Women 2024
Pointed toes add a sharp edge to the classic ballet flat, while squared-off shapes bring bold, geometric flair. Glove-style designs with higher vamps create a sleek, sculptural effect, and studded flats channel a rebellious, punky spirit. Mesh and rhinestone-adorned styles inject playfulness into everyday wear, while balletcore-inspired options offer a romantic, ethereal touch reminiscent of a prima ballerina’s grace. For a hint of retro femininity, the T-strap is making a stylish comeback, blending nostalgia with a fresh twist.
The appeal of ballet flats today is largely due to their ability to straddle two seemingly contradictory trends in footwear. As Sarah Pierson, cofounder of Margaux, explains: “First, a movement toward tailored shapes, patterns, and materials—think fall’s ubiquitous patents and sophisticated metal ornaments; and second, a shift toward comfort in all occasions, whether casual or dressy.” It’s this duality that positions the ballet flat perfectly within the current fashion lexicon.
Pierson emphasizes that Margaux has always considered the ballet flat a “closet classic”—after all, it’s the style the brand launched with nine years ago—and it’s no surprise that it’s now at the forefront of fashion. She says ballet flats are so relevant today because they can sit at the intersection of these two trends: “It’s as polished as it is comfortable once you find the perfect pair.”
With such a wide range of styles available, there’s a ballet flat for every mood and moment, be it as a daily partner with denim or a low-key accompaniment to bridal attire. Whether you’re drawn to the tailored polish of patent leather or the cozy ease of a soft, glove-style fit, explore our edit of timeless essentials and right-now must-haves. Our selection of the best ballet flats for women are guided by Pierson’s expert insights into comfort and fit, combined with the season’s trending styles from brands rigorously vetted by Harper’s Bazaar editors—ensuring they are both stylish and enduring.
Alaïa Crystal-Embellished Leather Ballet Flats
These buzzy Alaïa flats are the epitome of edgy elegance, with their lambskin upper densely dotted in rhinestones—perfect for adding a statement-making shine to any outfit. I own these in both black and white and, while I was unsure if they would comfortably fit my wide feet, they are so soft and hug them just right, no pinching at all. The adjustable strap ensures a snug fit, while the signature-pattern rubber sole offers comfort that lasts all day.
Sizes: 5–12
Materials: Leather and synthetic upper, leather lining, rubber sole
Colors: Black, white
Khaite Marcy Leather-Trimmed Mesh Ballet Flats
Mesh flats have become a defining trend, and their popularity shows no sign of waning as we transition into fall, with Khaite leading the charge. The brand’s styles consistently sell out, and designer Catherine Holstein keeps the momentum going each season with new offerings like this minimal black-trimmed beige combo. Crafted in Italy, these airy flats feature a high-cut vamp outlined in glossy leather, making them a modern, must-have take on the traditional ballet flat.
Sizes: 36–41 EU
Materials: Textile and leather upper and lining, leather sole
Colors: Beige/black
Between the decadent chocolate brown hue and the modern minimalist design, the Row has done it again with another flat that is perfectly suited to fall and sure to sell out.
Sizes: 5–12
Materials: Leather upper, lining, and sole
Colors: Brown, black
“A great pair of ballet flats can be your wardrobe’s unsung hero. As I’ve grown older, my footwear choices have increasingly prioritized comfort over heels, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing style. Miu Miu’s black Lea leather flat is a classic pair you’ll want to wear on repeat year-round.” —Julie Tong, senior commerce content lead
Sizes: 5–11
Materials: Leather and textile upper and lining, leather sole with an elasticized Mary Jane strap
Colors: Black, navy, pink
“The Mary Jane trend has been going strong for a few seasons now. But this pair from Tory Burch still felt new to me, thanks to the square toe that mimics a pointe shoe. Though the style is obviously ballet-inspired, the boxy toe makes the shoe feel less frilly and feminine. I bought them in black and have been wearing them with everything; they are shockingly comfortable to the point of being slipper-like. I may go back for another colorway.” — Leah Chernikoff, executive editor
Sizes: 5–12
Materials: Metallic leather upper, elastic trim, napa leather lining, high-shine leather sole
Colors: Ivory/black, black, silver
Chloé Marcie Mary Jane Ballerina Flats
The T-strap silhouette makes a triumphant return this fall, perfectly aligned with the season’s ladylike trends of which are very demure, very mindful. A versatile choice, that pairs effortlessly with floaty dresses and tailored looks alike.
Sizes: 5–12
Materials: Leather
Colors: Black, off-white, patent burgundy
If there’s one color trend to invest in this season, it’s red. A fiery shade is most captivating—and most charming—in ballet form, particularly in this sweet Mary Jane silhouette with its delicate strap.
Sizes: 35–42 EU
Material: Leather upper, lining, and sole
Colors: Red
Valentino Garavani VLogo Signature Patent Ballet Flat
Valentino Rockstud flats are a closet classic, but this season, switch things up with this glossy patent leather version featuring a crinkled texture. Complete with a sleek squared toe and a delicate logo charm in an antique brass finish, the shoe offers a fresh take on an iconic style.
Sizes: 5–12
Material: Synthetic and textile upper, leather lining, synthetic sole
Colors: Black, rose
These ballet flats strike the perfect balance between vintage charm and modern edge. The lace-up design nods to nostalgia, while the sleek sheep leather and metallic pull tab give them a contemporary twist.
Sizes: 5–11
Materials: 100% sheep leather, 100% polyester lining, 100% polyurethane thermoplastic sole, 100% polyurethane insole
Colors: Burgundy, beige
These Mary Jane flats are a personal favorite of mine—I own them in both mesh and this pear napa leather iteration. I’m obsessed with their sleek design and the incredible comfort they provide. The classic silhouette, paired with the demi style and soft napa hue, feels both timeless and refreshingly modern, making them an essential part of my daily rotation.
As Margaux cofounder Sarah Pierson explains, “We’ve been perfecting our flats since we introduced our first nine years ago—it’s been a continuous evolution as we’ve adapted our styles to trend and preference, and refined the details over time.” These flats are a testament to that evolution, embodying the brand’s commitment to creating styles that are “classic and versatile enough to be worn for seasons to come, soft and supremely comfortable, and uniquely feminine.” When I wear them, they elevate my look with a subtle polish that feels perfectly in step with my day.
Sizes: 3–14
Materials: Italian napa upper with soft canvas lining and 5mm of foam padding
Colors: Available in 12 colors and four materials
What reviewers are saying: “I wore my new black woven Demi Jane’s walking around on a hot day, and they breath and are so amazingly comfortable given they seem so light in structure. The strap really helps to keep these shoes securely on my extremely narrow feet. I received so many compliments.”
Bottega Veneta’s signature intrecciato technique takes on bold new meaning with these lug-sole flats. Reach for them when you need extra traction with a touch of sophistication.
Sizes: 5–11
Materials: Leather
Colors: Black
A classic round-toe ballerina in sumptuous suede, these Manolo Blahnik flats are perfect for rotating through all your fall outfits. The delicate bow adds a touch of elegance, making it an effortless choice for both day and night.
Sizes: 36–43 EU
Materials: Goat suede
Colors: Eight colors
These satin flats are a beautifully luxe option with their clean, minimal lines that exude understated elegance. Perfect for dressed-up occasions, they’re even better when paired with denim for a chic juxtaposition.
Sizes: 6–11
Material: Satin with a leather outsole
Colors: Green
As they say, the hint is in the name. Everlane’s Glove ballerinas are beloved for, well, their glovelike fit, with buttery-soft leather that molds to your foot like a second skin. The higher vamp adds a decidedly modern touch, while the toe—a perfect blend of round and square—feels incredibly fresh.
Sizes: 5–11
Materials: Calf leather upper, leather lining, rubber outsole
Colors: 13 colors
What reviewers are saying: “I have these shoes in a couple of colors. I’ve been wearing them the whole summer in Spain and there has not been a day when they’ve not been praised. I’m not joking. They are perfect for summer. I have wide feet but thin ankles and they fit perfectly. I love them.”
With an ultra-square toe, these black leather flats channel a dramatic ballet vibe à la Black Swan. The exaggerated shape adds a bold twist to the classic ballet flat, making them a striking choice for anyone looking to make a statement.
Sizes: 6–11
Materials: Calf leather
Colors: Black, metallic
Studded accessories are having a major moment, and these Loeffler Randall ballet flats are the perfect everyday way to tap into the trend. “These are comfy enough to have become my go-to dog-walking shoe, which says a lot, given my step count in the city,” says Bazaar contributor Freya Drohan.
Sizes: 5–11
Materials: Leather
Colors: White, black
Prada Leather Crisscross Buckle Ballerina Flats
These flats strike the perfect balance between sharp and ladylike, making a statement in one of the season’s standout colors: yellow. The pointed toe not only adds a sleek edge but also elongates your line—a look we love paired with wide-leg trousers.
Sizes: 5–12
Materials: Leather with rubber outsole
Colors: Yellow, black
These Mansur Gavriel flats offer a minimalist design with a super-soft fit and feel. The round toe and contrasting black trim accentuate the modernity, making them perfect for pairing with everything from tailored trousers to casual denim.
Sizes: 35–41 EU
Materials: Italian lambskin leather
Colors: Dune, black
These velvet Mary Janes combine luxe texture with practical traction on the sole for stability and comfort. A choice flat for any season, seamlessly blending refinement with everyday practicality.
Sizes: 5–11
Materials: Velvet with cotton lining and rubber outsole
Colors: Six colors
Maison Margiela’s Tabi shoes, inspired by traditional Japanese socks, have cemented their place in contemporary fashion history, even earning a spot at the MoMA. This tawny brown leather version of the iconic split-toe design brings an everyday sensibility to the avant-garde silhouette.
Sizes: 35–41 EU
Materials: Calf leather
Colors: Camel, ivory
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