Alternatives to Ballet Flats That Are Classy and Comfy

From the moment Miu Miu revived my obsession through the satin style debuted in its autumn/winter 2022 collection, I knew that the search for the chicest alternatives to ballet flats would be inevitable. Despite fluctuating in mainstream visibility throughout the 21st Century, ballet flats have always remained firm as a footwear fixture for some of the most fashionable people across Europe.

From Alexa Chung to Sienna Miller, the reason is simple—ballet flats are delicate, elegant and bring a classic sense of sophistication to even the most uncomplicated of looks. Yet, as anyone who experienced their first reign in the early 2000s can attest, they’re not the most practical of shoes. While their ability to make your outfits feel as graceful as a dancer moving across a grand operatic stage en pointe is indisputable, the ballet flats I’ve tried are simply unable to survive high step counts.

It’s well-known that the style lacks crucial support and cushioning to endure long days. Still, the refined silhouette and countless iterations—Alaïa’s mesh shoes! Ganni’s viral buckled iteration! Tory Burch’s studded leather style!—warrants their appeal, meaning that we always find ourselves returning to the timeless shape, irrespective of the podiatry problems associated with the style.

This is a plight I’m too familiar with. As a self-described anti-trainer person, ballet flats have become an indispensable part of my daily uniform.

They’ll always hold a special place in my heart—and I currently have this dreamy dusty pink square-toe sort from & Other Stories on my wish list—but as I come to grips with the lack of longevity they hold, my mind has turned to the other classy and comfortable flat shoe styles that serve as viable alternatives to ballet flats.

What I’ve discovered is a whole world of practical substitutes equally courtly as they are effortless to wear.

Best of all, these pieces don’t deviate from the hallmarks of ballet flats—soft in shape, slip on, low to the ground and demure by design—meaning they can easily be traded in your existing repertoire.

From the Mary Janes spotted all over Paris to the suede loafers London “It” girls can’t stop wearing, keep scrolling through for the six best alternatives to ballet flats.

 Chic Alternatives to Ballet Flats to Try

 Mary Janes