Make no mistake: While they’re trendy in 2024, the best ballet flats are as much timeless capsule wardrobe essentials as your favorite white sneakers. They’re endlessly versatile and add polish to every outfit—autumnal dresses and jeans very much included. We’ll be the first to admit that certain pairs leave plenty to be desired, though, which is why we turned to our editors and style experts to recommend the ones they've walked miles in.
Any pair of ballet flats can be styled well for work and beyond, but we’re noticing a few major shoe trends right now. Red ballet flats are everywhere, and Madewell and Matisse have you covered with cherry-red picks that look great with faded denim. And thanks to labels like Alaïa, Miu Miu, and The Row, Mary Jane flats are popular for fall and winter; you can find the look everywhere from Amazon to Reformation. And while colder temps may have us retiring our mesh flats, tried-and-true leather options in glove silhouettes are everywhere and on point.
Ready to add some classic elegance to your shoe rotation? These are the most comfortable ballet flats to wear right now, according to Glamour editors and reviewers.
The best ballet flats, at a glance
- Best Overall Ballet Flats: Madewell Greta Ballet Flats, $98
- Most Comfortable Ballet Flats: Mansur Gavriel Dream Ballerinas, $395, $200
- Best Classic Ballet Flats: J.Crew Zoe Ballet Flats, $128
- Best Mesh Flats: Doeyg Mesh Ballet Flats, $55
- Best Embellished Ballet Flats: Free People Mystic Mary Jane Flats, $128
- Best Designer Ballet Flats: Tory Burch Cap-Toe Ballets, $248
- Best for Walking: Everlane The Day Ballet Flat, $148
- Best for Work: M.Gemi The Una Flats, $248
- Best with Arch Support: Frances Valentine Jude Mary Jane Leather Flat Red, $298
Everything you need to know about ballet flats
How to style ballet flats
The best part about ballet flats is that they work well with both dresses or skirts, but they also pair perfectly with any type of denim. Wear them with skinny jeans, a la Audrey Hepburn, or trendy wide-leg jeans for any edgier vibe.
How to pick the right ballet flats
If you’re shopping with a specific season in mind, consider the materials: A suede or leather style is great for fall and winter, whereas in spring and summer, you’ll likely want to reach for something more breathable (like mesh or raffia) that won’t give your heels blisters. If you’re flat-footed or need additional arch support, look for a pair with cushioned insoles and elastic or adjustable Mary Jane straps. And if you have narrow or wide feet, your best bet is a pair of shoes in extended widths or half sizes.
Are ballet flats in style in 2024?
Ballet flats are absolutely in style this year, and while every color and material has its place, we’ve noticed a huge rise in red ballet flats—often in leather or mesh—to add a pop of color to otherwise neutral palettes. (Dakota Johnson did it best.) Silver and other metallic finishes are also popular, thanks to the popularity of Simone Rocha’s shiny flats.
Mary Jane options are also super-popular right now, as are picks at both ends of the “look at me” spectrum; on the one hand, Ganni’s decked-out buckle flats (plus their many dupes) are everywhere, meaning that multiple straps and grommet details are extra-hot. On the other, minimalist glove flats are fashion-insider faves. The takeaway? Pick any pair that speaks to you, and style them intuitively.
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