The Rise of Ballet Flats (Again)
How to style them without looking like you’re in middle school, because chic cool > 7th grade piano recital
by Savanna Sussman ★ October 9th, 2025
Design by: Claire West
The comeback
Fashion's favorite on-again, off-again footwear has re-entered the chat: ballet flats. They’ve been revolutionary through history, from Audrey Hepburn in Sabrina and Funny Face to your favorite 2009 Justice catalog. And now, once again, they’re back. Thanks to the resurgence of Miu Miu and Chanel ballerina core, along with TikTok’s obsession with dressing “coquette,” ballet flats are no longer just for dance rehearsal. They’re everywhere now, but the challenge…wearing them without looking like you’re waiting for your middle school carpool to dance practice.
The cool girl formula
The trick to pulling it off like that cool girl you always see on your TikTok and Instagram feed? It's all about contrast! Start thinking less ballet class and more street style. Pair your classic flats with oversized jeans and a cool shirt or sweater, depending on the season. It’s how the look is structured that makes the shoe feel grown-up (and Parisian).
Socks are (surprisingly) your friend
Yes, you can wear your ballet flats with socks. In fact, the right sock can elevate an outfit. Think mesh, lacy or even a bold color. The vibe is less schoolgirl, and more “I just stepped outside of a bodega in Paris.” Don’t be afraid to experiment; ankle socks might soften the look, but patterns could transform it...
Elevated details only
Let's skip the plain satin pairs that look like they’re straight out of Capezio, and instead replace them with high-end materials and thoughtful details: leathers and metallics. Straps? A definite yes. Rhinestones and bows? That one's going to be a hard sell unless you're leaning toward Coquette Core. The end goal is to strike the perfect balance between playful and simple. When you’re intentional with finishing touches, that makes all the difference.
Your Ballet Flat Cheat Sheet
The classic: Everlane Italian Leather Day Ballet Flat — $158
The budget-friendly: H&M Mary Jane Flats — $29.99
The fashion girl's favorite: Bow suede ballerina — $89.99
The office edit: Sam Edelman Felicia Ballet Flat — $100
The trendy yet chic: ASOS DESIGN Lynette high vamp ballet flats — $34.99
The Final Bow
Ballet flats aren’t just simply a throwback anymore; they're a statement! The secret to styling them well is mixing them with edge, polish, style and ease. So go on and tie the ribbon, do up the straps, slip into your flats, and remember: you're not in middle school anymore.
Edited by: Elena Pauletto