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20 Best Ballet Flats Because They’re Back, Baby

Twirl on ’em haters in these.

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fashion photo session in paris december 2023
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If 2023 was the year of the ballet flat, they're about to be even bigger in 2024. You already know this, but today's styles are wayyy more cute than the ones that peaked when you were in, like, middle school. They're comin' in hot in different colorways, finishes, and designs. And sure, Chanel ballet flats are classics, but we can thank Miu Miu for the hard relaunch that catapulted them into a full-blown footwear trend. From the delicate, barely-there styles that look like slippers to ones that are more edgy with metal embellishments and chunky soles, there are so many options to choose from. If you don't have the moolah to splurge on Miu Miu's, we rounded up inexpensive options too that are equally pretty and versatile for everyday wear.

With TikTok-driven aesthetic trends like balletcore and Pilates princess in the discourse, these 20 cute ballet flats will definitely help you lean into those looks. They're also just super easy to slip on when you're running late and need to get out of the door. Heading on a vacay? They won't take up a ton of space in your suitcase either, and lots of these pack flat (no pun intended) so you can get the most out of your carry-on luggage situation.

Our top picks for the best ballet flats of 2024:


The ballet flat is officially reimagined and we're here for it. From leather to knit and everything in between, you'll definitely discover the pair of your dreams (and, head's up, here are some cozy no show socks if you're into that). This season, you'll want to style them with a luxe cashmere sweater or your fave button down and wide leg jeans. And if you're a traveling queen, then your new cool shoes will look amazing with these dresses. Okay, okay—let's get to giving ya the deets on the best ballet flats now.

best designer ballet flats

Miu Miu Satin Ballet Flats

Satin Ballet Flats

Pros

  • Luxe material
  • Comfy band across vamp
  • Easy to slip on

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Satin can be hard to maintain

Miu Miu is arguably the reason for breathing life back into this style. You've likely seen these satin flats with the logo stitched into the black strap, and if you've been wanting a designer pair, let these be IT.

Sizing:6-12
Colors:Cacao, Blue, Bianco, and White
Materials:Satin, Leather
Emilia Mary Jane In Silver Metallic
Now 30% Off

Pros

  • Has a comfy foam footbed
  • Made with soft leather
  • Contrasting black strap

Cons

  • Some reviewers say strap can dig in

Metallics are also having a moment, so combine two trends in one with these oh-so beautiful silver Coach ballet flats. The black strap across the vamp gives them a contrasting, delicate detail.

Rave Review: "I wore them to a formal birthday party and danced the night away. Shoes are made from the softest leather ever. I received many compliments."

Sizing:5-11
Colors:Silver
Materials:Leather
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best mesh ballet flats

Jeffrey Campbell Swan-Lake Flat

Swan-Lake Flat

Pros

  • Great for sweaty feet
  • Sleek, rounded toe
  • Also comes in black

Cons

  • Sizes are selling out fast
  • Only two color options

Mesh flats have been a divisive topic ever since they found their way into the footwear spotlight last year, but I, for one, am I fan! These will be a lifesaver for those who have sweaty feet or during warmer summer months thanks to the breathable mesh material. These red ones are just too perfect.

Rave Review: "I've been wanting a mesh shoe for close to six months. I finally caved on these adorable red pair for a holiday party and I'm completely obsessed! Super comfortable, true to size, and the color is so good!"

Sizing:6-10
Colors:Red, Black
Materials:Mesh, Faux-Leather
Black Feminine Buckle Ballerinas

Pros

  • Cool silver hardware
  • Adjustable buckle
  • Has a subtle block heel

Cons

  • A little pricey
  • No half sizes

Ganni's take on the ballet flat are these metal buckled silngbacks. The style has become a fan-favorite among the fashion set because of its distinct hardware and angular shape. They also come in so many cute colors if you want to make 'em pop even more.

Sizing:5-12
Colors:Black, Racing Red, Sand, Egret, and more.
Materials:Recycled Polyester, Polyester
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best for personalization

Mansur Gavriel Dream Ballerina

Dream Ballerina

Pros

  • Can monogram your initials
  • Tons of color options
  • Molds to your foot

Cons

  • A little pricey

Mansur Gavriel's ballet flats can be an investment, but they're ones you'll have in your closet for years to come. The best part is that you can add a monogram and have your initials hand painted on the top for shoes that are undoubtedly *yours.* How cute!

Sizing:35-42
Colors:Rose Satin, Ballet, Sand, and more.
Materials:Lambskin Leather
best for wide feet

Margaux Demi

Demi
best for wide feet

Margaux Demi

The size range, plethora of color options, and choice of widths are all very impressive. Very rarely does a brand give you so much variety so you can find your perfect flat! Margaux's "Demi" flats are some of the best out there, and reviewers are obsessed with the quality, fit, and style.

Rave Review: "I have several pairs of the Demi and they are so awesome. Stylish and super comfortable. I wear a 9 and the 9 medium is perfect."

Sizing:3-14
Colors:Scarlet, Black, Saddle, Olive, and more.
Materials:Leather
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Flexa Amaya Ballet Flat

Pros

  • Metal toe cap adds contrast
  • Cushioned footbed
  • Ergonomic insoles

Cons

  • Some reviewers say it runs large

Obsessed with the metal toe cap. If you're someone who often scuffs the tip of their shoes and wears down the material, this shoe is one solution to that dilemma. It's also a great option for dressier occasions with the subtle shine of the metal contrasting with the solid leather.

Rave Review: "I bought the shoes in white. Perfect shoe for spring dresses. I have always liked Franco Sarto shoes for the look, fit, and quality."

Sizing:5-11
Colors:White, Black
Materials:Leather
Dancerina Ballet Flat

Pros

  • Buttery soft leather
  • Comes in sooo many colors
  • Less expensive dupe of The Row

Cons

  • Not real leather
  • Some reviewers say the strap can be a little tight at first

There's something about the shape of this ballet flat that's just so sophisticated. It comes in a ton of neutral shades, so it's guaranteed to go with any outfit year round.

Rave Review: "Soft leather molds to your feet. Fits true to size. I’m usually a 7.5 or 8 in US women's and the 7.5 was a perfect fit for me. Well-priced dupe for The Row’s ballerina flats."

Sizing:5-11
Colors:Black, Silver, White, Brown, and more.
Materials:Faux-Leather
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Right Nina Flat

Pros

  • Flexible shape and grippy sole
  • Easy velcro strap
  • Removable insole

Cons

  • No half sizes

The olive-colored split sole helps with traction, but the flats still keep their flexible shape thanks to the super-soft leather. The velcro straps are surprisingly chic, and they have a removable insole if you find that they fit better without it. Catch me hitting the streets in these durable shoes.

Sizing:35-42
Colors:Black
Materials:Leather, Recycled Polyester, Rubber
Hermine Pointed Toe Slingback Flat

Pros

  • Cute buckle details
  • Adjustable buckle at the back
  • Sleek pointed toe

Cons

  • Toe shape might not be best for wide feet
  • No half sizes

Buckle up! These pointed-toe flats are so striking with the quadruple buckles—three on the vamp and one at the heel. If you like the look at ballet flats, but don't want to suffocate your feet, these cool slingbacks are a great option.

Sizing:6-11
Colors:Black, Greige
Materials:Leather
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best velvet ballet flat

Flabelus Lucrecia

Lucrecia
best velvet ballet flat

Flabelus Lucrecia

Pros

  • Pretty two-tone combo
  • Rubber sole is made from recycled bike tires
  • Luxe velvet fabric

Cons

  • Little support
  • Can rub the back of the heel

These velvet Italian flats are *chef's kiss.* Between the two-tone color combination, the soft material, and the soles made from recycled rubber, these will be your new go-to flats to instantly make any outfit look more fancy. They do require some breaking in, but once your used to them, they'll be a constant in your rotation.

Sizing:35-42
Colors:Yellow, Black, Red, Pink, Orange, Blue
Materials:Velvet, Rubber
Lali Ballet Flat in Flamingo

Pros

  • Lace up straps help secure your feet
  • Can tie the laces in so many ways
  • Ballet-inspired look

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Material can be delicate

They're called ballet flats for a reason. Take a cue from the name with these stunning lace-up flats. You can tie these in so many different ways, and these happen to be in the prettiest shade of pink I've ever seen.

Sizing:5-12
Colors:Flamingo, Black
Materials:Satin
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best on-sale ballet flats

Birdies The Goldfinch

The Goldfinch
best on-sale ballet flats

Birdies The Goldfinch

Now 50% Off

Pros

  • they hug your feet
  • the colorways are extensive
  • on sale

Cons

  • Some reviewers say they run slightly big

Can never resist a great deal. Birdies are known for their ultra-comfy flats, and these leopard-printed ones are no exception. They also happen to be under $100 and come in tons of colors, patterns, and textures. The quilted footbed has leather lining, so your toes will be very happy in these.

Rave Review: "I’m on my feet all day running around at work and these shoes are so comfortable! These are well made and beautiful; I’m always wearing my Birdies."

Sizing:5-12
Colors:Mini Cheetah Tipped Calf Hair, Black Suede, Gold Leather, and more.
Materials:Calf hair
Wayfarer Ballet Flat

Pros

  • Pillowy footbed
  • Soft leather
  • Available in 3 colors

Cons

  • Some reviewers say it's lacking support

There's a chance that when you look up "comfy and cute" on the internet, you'll find these Cole Haan shoes at the tippy-top of the results. Okay, I'm totally kidding, but I'm so serious about this pair being what your feet need. The top has some stretch, the elastic heel stays on, there's some cushioning involved, and we're very into the soft-square toe.

Sizing:5-10
Colors:Nude Leather, Black Nudo, and Bloodstone.
Materials:Leather
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best for narrow feet

Barkal Signature Maroon

Signature Maroon

Pros

  • Vibrant colors
  • Unisex style
  • Soft suede lining

Cons

  • no other cuts

Introducing: ballet flats comfortable (and stretchy) enough to wear every single day. These are made of Italian leather and hand stitched from heel to toe. Oh, they're also available in narrow and wide fits!

Rave Review: "Thank you for creating such a wonderful, stylish product. I am in love with it, and I am now using my second pair."

Sizing:36-46
Colors:Maroon, Midnight, Tangerine, Taupe, and more.
Materials:Leather, Suede
best for color options

Zou Xou Eugenia Flat in Bronze

Eugenia Flat in Bronze

Pros

  • Stacked leather heel
  • Stunning color
  • Handmade in Argentina

Cons

  • Doesn't ship immediately

Wait. Why do I suddenly need these bronze beauties on my feet? They're made of leather and feature a stacked leather, oval-shaped heel. I seriously can't get over that metallic color and matching buckle. These are the Mary Jane and ballet hybrid shoes I didn't know I needed!

Sizing:35-42
Colors:Bronze, Black, Indigo Mesh, Pale Pink, and more.
Materials:Leather
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The Day Ballet Flat

Pros

  • Molds to your feet
  • Multiple hues available
  • Leather is soft

Cons

  • Some reviewers say it requires some breaking in

According to dozens of reviews (and ya know Everlane fans don't lie), this is the kind of ballet flat that'll fit like a glove. This pair is super soft, chic, and you can wear them all day thanks to the cushioning.

Rave Review: "Love these shoes. My second pair. I want every color. The cut is total perfection and the tan color is just great."

Sizing:5-11
Colors:Black, Black/Tan Lining, Toasted Almond, Blush Tan, and more.
Materials:Leather
best for shade matching

Kahmune Kennedy Flat 2.0 Enugu

Kennedy Flat 2.0 Enugu

Pros

  • Arrives beautifully wrapped
  • Buttery soft leather
  • Has a sturdy cork heel

Cons

  • An investment piece
  • Can run large

Oh, how I adore brands that get nude products for Black women right. Kahmune gets it every time and has several of ballet flats in various shades of brown.

Sizing:6-13
Colors:Gaborone, Kumasi, Enugu, Kumasi Suede, and more.
Materials:Leather
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best for everyday wear

Vivaia Square-Toe V-Cut Flats

Square-Toe V-Cut Flats
best for everyday wear

Vivaia Square-Toe V-Cut Flats

Pros

  • no break-in period needed
  • blister-free shoes
  • washable

Cons

  • stretches over time so don't size up

On top of over 1,000 customers' glowing remarks on their style and comfort, Vivaia ballet flats have so many options to choose from in the form of prints, colors, and textures. They'll withstand everyday use because if they get dirty, you can just throw 'em in the washing machine. And, important: They won't cramp your pinky toes, per reviews.

Rave Review: "I walked one mile my first time wearing these. Not a sore spot, blister or 'hot spot.' So comfortable right out of the box!

Sizing:5-13
Colors:Black, Almond, Denim Blue, and more.
Materials:Knit
Adora Skimmer Flat in Ivory Fabric

Pros

  • Delicate design
  • Wedding-friendly
  • Intricately embellished

Cons

  • Pricey

If Cinderella wore flats, these would be her favorites. According to reviews, this pair is even prettier in person and the mesh material keeps your feet cool.

Sizing:6-11
Colors:Ivory
Materials:Mesh, Leather
Headshot of Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien

Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien is the fashion editor at Cosmopolitan, writing weighty and witty stories that run the gamut of gushing over Zendaya to convincing you of everything you need in your closet! She began her journey in the industry with a fashion and faith blog and an internship at Elle about 10 years ago. Since then, she's also served as the style editor at The Haitian Times. The Haitian-American pageant queen is Miss Supranational Haiti 2024, a Syracuse Masters graduate, and the author of three books, including: Claim Your Crown. Follow her on Instagram and TikTok: @iamtarahlynn.

Lettermark
Lauren Adhav
Associate Fashion Editor

I'm Cosmopolitan's Associate Fashion Editor and write about any and all trends, major celeb fashion moments, and why wide-leg jeans are basically the best. I originally moved to New York City to audition for RENT, only to find out that the play closed 10 years ago. 

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