Bella Hadid is known for taking more style risks than the average 28-year-old. In her career as a model and through her personal style evolution, the certified 'It' girl has become one of the biggest street-style influencers — especially for the Gen-Z generation — but her latest shoe choice might be her most divisive yet.
The model stepped out in New York yesterday wearing an athleisure-inspired look, opting for a zipped-up oversized leather bomber jacket over the top of some Nineties-inspired capri pants. But it wasn't the throwback style of cropped trousers that formed the divisive part of this outfit; on foot, Hadid had slipped into a pair of satin ivory ballet-style trainers.
A comfortable choice for errand-running, the ballerina sneaker looks likely to join the ranks of controversially comfy shoes (see also: Crocs, Uggs and Birkenstocks). Hadid's favourite pair, the Cristina style by Vivaia, are constructed with a flat triple-layer sole, which affords the wearer a "barefoot experience", while the light suede lining adds an extra element of softness.
Despite its contentious design, the ballet trainer has amassed more than just a few fans. Vivaia's Cristina style has been restocked three times since it launched last month, and the number of brands releasing their own ballerina-inspired sneaker keeps on climbing.
Puma's new Ballet iteration of its Speedcat style features elasticated straps over the instep, with cut-out detailing at the sides. Miu Miu's ballerina trainer is more reminiscent of a style you might have sported in your school's gym hall, with a single strap and rubber sole, while Louis Vuitton's aptly named Sneakerina is constructed with closed-top design, streamlined silhouette and super-slim base.
Divisive though the style may be, the comfortability and practicality of the ballerina trainer can't be denied. Its flexible sole allows for the shoe to be rolled up, should you need a change of footwear on the go, making it an ideal work trainer for the city commute. Vivaia's feminine satin design hones in on the coquette style, pairing well with a drop-waist dress or long shorts in the spring and summer months, while Puma and Miu Miu's style are more fitting for those with a preference for athleisure style.
If you're feeling inspired by Hadid's light-footed ensemble, shop our edit of the best ballet-inspired trainer styles below.
Vivaia Cristina lace-up derby flats
Miu Miu gymnasium technical fabric and suede ballerinas
Ferragamo hybrid sneaker
Puma speedcat ballet metallic shoes
Hermès Kichu ballet flat
