In middle school, all the cool girls in my grade had the same pair of black Tory Burch ballet flats, which my mom refused to buy me. When I told her I would save up my allowance, she said my feet would grow, or the girlish flat would just as soon go out of style. While she was right about my feet growing, ballet flats are one of spring 2024's biggest shoe trends. If anything, the fashion world has helped establish them as a perennial classic.
And rightly so, ballet flats have finally offered me (and many other fashion enthusiasts) a far more comfortable (and risk-averse) option to heels. They've never gone dormant, but their resurgence on the Spring 2024 runways has also awarded flat lovers with multiple styles to choose from. Pointed-toe flat versions appeared at Gabriela Hearst in New York and peppered the catwalks at Tove in London. While ballet-style Mary-Jane flats were a staple at Cecilie Bahnsen's show in Paris and were styled alongside edgy pant suits and atelier-sewn dresses at Versace in Milan with nighttime appeal thanks to their metallic silver finish.
Mesh flat variations appeared at 3.1 Philip Lim and Proenza Schouler's New York City runways and have received the A-lister stamp of approval from celebrities like Dua Lipa and Jenner Lawrence, who offer a heightened, sophisticated, slightly sexy take on the feminine trend.
While ballet flats often bring images of the girlhood aesthetic trend to mind—with a tendency to appear alongside sherbet colors, bows, and ruffles—the footwear staple has grown up for 2024 in sleek neutrals and minimalist silhouettes. Jessica Richards, Trend Forecaster and founder of JMR Trend + Creative tells Marie Claire her forecast predictions for ballet flats in the seasons to come. “What I adore about the [ballet flat] trend is that it's the foundation of one of the strongest footwear trends we've seen in a long time," she notes. In the future, she sees the trend focusing on more sophisticated, maybe a bit more dressy, empowered silhouettes, "which speaks to consumers demand for uncompromised wearability," she notes.
Ballet flats are a shoe style that can be worn and loved by everyone, whether you're harkening back to your girlhood or just looking for a comfortable swap for your office kitten heels. Ahead, Marie Claire rounds up our favorite pairs of ballet flats for 2024, from simple leather round-toe styles to strappy satin designer offerings.
- Best Overall Ballet Flats: Sam Edelman Felicia Ballet Flat
- Best Affordable Ballet Flats: Amazon Essentials Women’s Belice Ballet Flats
- Best Splurge-Worthy Ballet Flats: Miu Miu Logo Strap Satin Ballet Flats
- Best Mary Jane Ballet Flats: Madewell Greta Ballet Flat
- Best Pointed-Toe Ballet Flats: Rothy's The Flat
The Best Ballet Flats
Best Overall Ballet Flats
These classic ballet flats from Sam Edelman are available in 8 different colors on Nordstrom's website, so you're bound to find one that suits your fancy. They have a padded sole and are made from buttery-soft leather. They're available in sizes 4 through 14, so they're great if your foot runs on the smaller or larger side. They also come in three widths (narrow, medium, and wide), so they're one of the most customizable pairs on this list.
Pros: They come in eight colors, half sizes, three widths, and a wide size range.
Cons: Some reviewers say they run small.
Customer Review: "I am obsessed with the Sam Edelman Felicia Flats. I especially love that they come in wide sizes since I have a wider foot. They are by far the most comfortable shoes that I own. The padding inside feels like you are walking on air, which is perfect for my job since I stand on my feet all day. It isn't very often that you find a shoe that is as comfortable as it is yet still fashionable. I bought them in the black leather, and they are extremely versatile. I will be ordering them in every color!" — Nordstrom.
Best Affordable Ballet Flats
Need a pair of ballet flats that cost less than $50 and will arrive in no time? Meet this simple under $20 pair from Amazon Essentials. You can shop in 21 colors and patterns. But don't take my word for it: They have over 72,500 five-star reviews on the site. While reviewers give these top marks for comfort, they note that they might not work for you if you have wide feet.
Pros: Affordably priced; Comes in 36 colors; No break-in period.
Cons: Some reviewers say they run big.
Customer Review: "I needed a pair of flats that I was going to have to do a lot of moving around in, and I didn't want to spend a ton of money - these were great for my purpose and fit the bill!" — Amazon
Best Satin Ballet Flats
Luxury brand Miu Miu is no stranger to a great pair of ballet flats, but this sweet-feeling satin pair has taken the fashion set by storm this season. They’re available in sweet shades like white, copper, and black and will add a delicate touch to your fall and winter outfits. Plus, they’ll work just as well next summer with a pretty dress. However, they won’t be great for all-season wear due to the delicate satin fabrication, so they’re best reserved for special occasions.
Pros: Runs true-to-size; Cult-favorite; Comes in several colors.
Cons: Silk can get dirty easily.
Best Mary-Jane Ballet Flats
Mary Jane-style ballet flats aren't going anywhere this season. They appeared on the runways at fan-favorite brands like Sandy Liang and Zimmermann and have officially taken over the streetwear crowd. The traditionally feminine shoes can be edged up, but I prefer to let them be their sweet selves with frilly socks or dresses. This pair from Madewell comes in a few colors, including this deep chocolate brown. It costs under $100 and is in demand for its comfort and buttery-soft leather.
Pros: Comfortable; Top-selling; Comes in several colors; Leather material molds to your feet as you wear.
Cons: It doesn't come in half-sizes.
Customer Review: "These shoes are great. The leather is buttery soft and they are stylish yet understated. The fit was big for me. I'm always a true 6, and there was a lot of room in the toe, and my heel was slipping out. A half-size down was perfect. Would highly recommend but consider going down a half size." — Madewell
Best Machine Washable Flat
Marie Claire's Digital Director, Jenny Hollander, loves this pair of Rothy's ballet flats so much that she wore a pair on her wedding day. "That isn't a joke; I literally wore them under my dress when I got married this September," she says, calling them her "go-to ballet flats, without fail or exception." They're machine-washable, incredibly comfortable right out of the box, and have a rubber sole that feels supportive even after hours of wear. You can shop them in tons of colors and half sizes to boot.
Pros: Editor-reviewed; Comfortable; Top-reviewed; Runs true-to-size; Comes in several colors;
Cons: Some reviewers say the toe box is too narrow.
Customer Review: "The best part about this (besides recycling) is that it's washable. I like looking polished even on casual wear days, and part of that is keeping shoes clean. Thanks, Rothy's!" — Rothy's
More Ballet Flats We Love
Best White Ballet Flat
I don't know about you, but nothing sounds comfier than wearing a so-called "glove" shoe style. This pair from Everlane has a highly high vamp that covers most of your food, making them the perfect ballet flats if you detest any hint of toe cleavage. They come in seven evergreen colors plus two seasonal shades: olive green and a sweet dusty pink. You can shop them in sizes 5 through 10, including half sizes.
Pros: Comes in several colors; Top-rated; Comes in half-sizes;
Cons: It has a narrow fit; some customers say they run small.
Customer Review: "I blister like nobody's business, and I didn't have a single blister, no chafing, no problem whatsoever with these shoes, and I have DIFFICULT feet. Wide, flat beasts. These were great. 10/10." — Everlane
Best Ballet Flats With Hardware
Some things don't ever change. All these years later, I'm still obsessed with ballet flats from Tory Burch. I'm not in middle school, so I prefer these sleek black flats with gold hardware. You can shop them in several other colors, including lime green with silver hardware and a light taupe brown with the same gold finishings. The brand notes that the Georgia flats run a little large, which is okay, considering they come in half sizes.
Pros: It comes in five colors, half sizes, and different hardware options.
Cons: The brand says they run large.
Customer Review: "The cap-toe shoe was great. I purchased several pairs in different colors. I have enjoyed all of them. They are very comfortable, and the fit is perfect." —
Best Editor-Approved Ballet Flats
"At the intersection of "horse girl who never quite grew up" and "fashion-obsessed freak," you'll find me wearing Margiela's baby pink Tabi ballet flats," says Marie Claire Fashion Features Editor Emma Childs of her favorite pick. While they're not perfect for wearing in all weather conditions, Childs says that "they possess just enough stylish quirk to satisfy my individuality complex (the hoove toes are not for everyone, admittedly) but also a surprising versatility." You can shop for them in half-sizes, and they run true-to-size.
Pros: Editor-reviewed; Come in half-sizes; Can be dressed up or down.
Cons: Silk can get dirty quickly.
Best Cult-Favorite Ballet Flats
This pair of flats from Carel achieves the perfect French girl look. Alexa Chung has been a longtime fan of the brand and has worn the Kina shoe, the style after which this pair was inspired. This glossy pair is a dream to wear with jeans to make them look more formal or with a mini skirt for the perfect mod,‘ 60s-inspired ensemble. They’re available to shop in sizes EU 36–roughly a US 6—through an EU 39 39.5 or a US 9.5.
Pros: Comes in half-sizes; Can be dressed up; Cult-favorite following.
Cons: Shipping can take a while.
Best Comfortable Ballet Flats
So you want a pair of ballet flats that come in every color under the sun, are eco-friendly in fabrication, cost under $100, come in half-sizes, are machine-washable, and are comfortable for all-day wear? This pair from Vivaia checks all those boxes and then some—they also come in a few prints. They're even designed to feel weightless on your foot, are top-rated for breathability based on hundreds of reviews, and have additional arch support in the sole as a bonus.
Pros: Comes in several colors; Sustainably-made; Has options for wide feet; Comfortable; Has a padded insole;
Cons: Some reviewers said there was a break-in period.
Customer Review: "These shoes have barely been off my feet since I got them! They are super comfortable and go with everything. What more could I ask for?" — Vivaia
Best Classic Ballet Flats
J.Crew continues to deliver a selection of perfectly-elevated basics season after season—case in point: This pair of ballet flats comes in either black or tan. The little bow on the front is so sweet, but the rounded-toe silhouette can be worn anywhere. Half-sizes make it easy to find your perfect size, although reviewers say they run true to size regardless. Their only less-than-stellar detail is that they have a very short break-in period.
Pros: Comes in two colors; Comes in half-sizes; Runs true-to-size.
Cons: Reviewers say there is a short break-in period.
Customer Review: "If you're looking for a classic, versatile leather ballet flat...these are it. They're TTS, so no guessing games with sizing if you're ordering online. I'd say they have a short break in period (just put some bandaids on your heels, and you're good)." — J.Crew
Best Red Ballet Flats
The red color trend is continuing for 2024, and I'm excited about it—especially if I get to wear these red flats from Mansur Gavriel. The brand is the one behind Katie Holmes' favorite tote bag, but I recommend checking out their shoe selection, too. These are made from buttery-soft leather that molds to your feet as you wear them. The higher vamp also cuts down on toe cleavage if that's not your thing. You can even add a monogram to make them extra special!
Pros: It comes in half-sizes, comes in 10 colors, can be monogrammed, runs true-to-size, and is comfortable.
Cons: Some reviewers wish they had more padding in the toe and heel sections.
Customer Review: "I have been on the hunt for an amazing ballet flat and have done the market research for you! I ordered and tried on a bunch of them, but these were the keepers! At first, I thought they might be too big, but I am glad I had the forethought about swollen feet as you're on them longer! I clocked miles in these as I did a full day of errands. They never slipped off the back or gave me blisters! I love the look with denim and the extended square toe as opposed to a smaller ballerina front. Highly recommend!" — Mansur Gavriel
Best Bedazzled Ballet Flats
This pair of mesh flats kicked off the entire trend, and they're fully in stock (which is truly rare!) right now at Net-a-Porter. These are definitely made to satisfy your inner magpie and not for the sartorially faint-of-heart; these bejeweled flats are perfect for a formal occasion. I would personally style them with a longer pair of pants or a skirt to let just a touch of sparkle come through. Shop them in sizes 36 through 41, including half sizes.
Pros: Come in half sizes.
Cons: Can sell out quickly.
Best Slingback Ballet Flats
Everyone wants cute shoes that are blister-free and comfortable right out of the box, but it doesn't always work out that way. That's where this pair of slingback flats from Naturalizer comes in. Available in either black or a gold leather colorway and in half-sizes, this pair has a sleek silhouette that is perfect for the office or even a slightly more formal occasion. You can also shop them in either a wide or medium width. Style them with tights for more coverage during the colder months.
Pros: It comes in two colors, half sizes, and two widths, and it is comfortable out of the box.
Cons: Some reviewers said the straps are too thin for a secure fit.
Customer Review: "Comfortable footbed, the front is wide enough, and the sling is very comfortable. ( I got the wide fit)." — Nordstrom
Best Silver Ballet Flats
Silver footwear continues to trend after popping up everywhere—just ask Katie Holmes. This pair from Mattisse, which is top-rated for comfort, is perfect for making the trend work in your style rotation and channeling the trend seen at Versace's Spring 2024 show. The modern square toe and multiple thin straps elevate this pair from a classic flat into something that feels a little more special for everyday wear.
Pros: It comes in half sizes, three colors, adjustable straps, a rubber sole, and runs true to size for most reviewers.
Cons: Some reviewers said they scuff easily.
Customer Review: "I liked this stylish three-strap shoe so much I bought it in another color. I found it true to size in length and, although it is a medium width, the straps are adjustable, so I was able to make the fit more narrow." — Nordstrom.
Best Pastel Ballet Flat
These pretty lavender mesh Mary-Jane-style ballet flats come in one of Spring 2024's most popular colors, a fresh lilac hue that the brand lovingly calls "Wisteria." Taylor Swift fans, this is your chance to actually have wisteria on your feet— no trips to "The Lakes" are required. Shop this pair in full sizes only, ranging from 35 to 41. If purple isn't your preferred footwear shade, they come in a simple black iteration.
Pros: It comes in two colors. It has a lightweight silhouette.
Cons: Only come in whole sizes.
Best Brown Ballet Flat
Eledera only opened two years ago, but it's quickly become an under-the-radar destination for ballet flats. Handmade in Milan, each pair has an elongated upper, a dainty bow elastic, and a soft, wear-all-day insole. Marie Claire's Senior News Editor Halie LeSavage swears by the cherry red pair for a burst of color; Eledera also carries these in a trending chocolate brown and several shades of breezy woven leather for spring. If you wear two different sizes or a half size, the brand also has a made-to-order service, guaranteeing a glove-like fit.
Best Pointed-Toe Ballet Flats
The perfect pair of pointed-toe flats can instantly elevate any outfit. Marie Claire's Contributing Editor Katherine J. Igoe loves this pair from Birdies because they're comfortable right out of the box, and she wears them daily. "But I mainly love that they've crafted a shoe I can wear literally every day," she says. "I have them in a few of their many colors and designs." They come in various colors, including this black suede and a gold variation.
Pros: Editor-approved; Comfortable; Has a cushioned insole; Runs true to size for most reviewers.
Cons: Some reviewers say the sizing is inconsistent.
Customer Review: "I love these stylish shoes more than I thought. Very comfortable with padded insoles. Great color!!!" — Nordstrom
Best Quilted Ballet Flats
Quilted ballet flats are the epitome of French-girl-inspired chic dressing. This pair from Jon Josef is top-rated for how elevated they look and that they run true-to-size for most reviewers. They come in several colors, including white, pink, and brown, each with its own black patent-leather cap. Made in Spain from leather with a rubber sole and cushioned insole, these are a great option if you need a put-together flat that can take you from the office to the weekend.
Pros: It comes in five colors; it runs true-to-size for most reviewers; it comes in half-sizes.
Cons: Some reviewers say they run a half-size big.
Customer Review: "These shoes are just lovely. Comfortable and chic. I have an average width foot, and sometimes ballet flats can run narrow, but these are perfect, not too narrow or wide. I ordered my usual size eight and am very happy." — Nordstrom
Key Features of the Best Ballet Flats
There are so many new ballet flat options on the market for 2024. With a diverse set of silhouettes to choose from, Marie Claire offers a few helpful guidelines to keep in mind when shopping for your own pair.
- Fabric: Most of the ballet flats on this list are made from leather or satin. Both materials tend to mold to your feet as you wear them, giving you a more comfortable feel as you go through your day. Because ballet flats are so close-fitting to your feet, you want to go for a fabrication that won’t rub or pinch, so I recommend staying away from anything that looks too stiff. The ballet flats on this list are top-rated for blister-free comfort
- Insole and Arch Support: Flat shoes are notorious for not providing much support for your arches. Some of the ones on this list are outfitted with precisely comfortable insoles to combat that. You can wear these flats for hours from the office to drinks and back home. When shopping for ballet flats, remember how the sole is outfitted, too—is it made from durable rubber? If so, that might be a good direction to go in.
- Fit Many of the products on this list fit true-to-size, and many come in half-sizes for easy shopping. The key to the most comfortable pair of flats is finding one that fits you perfectly without being too tight or loose on any part of your foot. If possible, you should always use the reviews for a firsthand account of the fit, but brands also tend to note how their ballet flat runs regarding sizing. We’ve made sure to mark how each pair runs below.
How to Style Ballet Flats
"The luxe ballerina flat will elevate casual looks like shorts and skirts to the latest denim trends for 2024 while also working as an option for evening events," says Richards. She notes, "[Fashion] and celebrities (Katie Holmes loves a ballet flat) are embracing the surprise and delight of seeing a silhouette that we wouldn't expect, so while a ballet flat may feel odd paired with something more dressed up, it gives a luxe whimsy and joie de vivre to our looks." To try it on your own, look to Alexa Chung, who mastered the high-low aesthetic when she paired patent-leather ballet flats with a red satin mini dress at the Simone Rocha show during London Fashion Week this past February.
Pairing a ballet flat made from a traditionally formal material, like satin, with a relaxed daytime outfit is also a key way to refresh ballet flats for 2024. At Copenhagen Fashion Week, ballet flats unexpectedly appeared alongside a full Canadian tuxedo, denim pants, and a jean jacket. You can also try it alongside your favorite leggings and an oversized white button-down top.
Meet The Expert
Jessica Richards is a trend forecaster, style storyteller, and founder of JMR Trend + Creative, whose synergistic focus inspires what is now and next. With an extensive background in forecasting, concepts, and design for major North American retailers, she brings a forward-thinking yet commercially and brand-right viability to projects across the fashion and wellness
industries.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
Julia Marzovilla is the Fashion E-Commerce Editor at Marie Claire, where she covers everything from the latest beauty and fashion launches and sales to celebrity outfits and news. She also creates shopping guides that span every vertical on the site. Prior to joining the Marie Claire team, she contributed similar shopping stories to sites such as Bustle, InStyle, The Zoe Report, Who What Wear, and STYLECASTER. In her spare time, Julia can be found creating shopping guides for all of her friends, spending too much money on yet another pair of black boots, and cooking in her far-too-small kitchen.
-
Jess Hong Enters Her Chaotic Era
She was doing kids’ theater in New Zealand when she landed the leading role on Netflix’s epic ‘3 Body Problem.’ And now that the show is No. 1 on the streamer, her whole world is about to change.
By Jessica M. Goldstein Published
-
39 J.Crew, Reformation, and COS Items That Are Ideal for Spring Travel
Spring ready.
By Allyson Payer Published
-
Taylor Swift Breaks Yet Another Music-Industry Record
This is pretty much the norm now, no?
By Meghan De Maria Published