Wait, What? Skinny Jeans and Ballet Pumps Are Suddenly Being Worn by the Coolest People Again

Almost out of nowhere, one of fashion's most divisive items has started making its way back onto the scene.
Once dismissed as "dated" and "unflattering," skinny jeans had been relegated to the backs of wardrobes for years as baggy and straight-leg styles thrived instead. But now, slowly but surely, skinny jeans are creeping back onto our radars, and there's one particular shoe pairing that fashion people are wearing them with. In the early '00s, we'd wear our skinny jeans with either platform heels, ballet flats or ankle boots, and interestingly, it's ballet flats that have returned alongside slim-fitting jeans, looking surprisingly chic in the process.
Somehow both nostalgic and modern, this "dated" pairing combines the elegance of streamlined skinny jeans with the delicate shape of ballet flats to create a particularly polished silhouette. Nodding towards Y2K nostalgia whilst tapping into today's preference for minimalism and a sleek aesthetic, it's really no surprise that the trend has come back around this season. Styling well with oversized layers—think chunky knits, boxy blazers or roomy coats—to balance out the slim proportions of the jeans and neatly fitting flats, the combo has a certain appeal that stylish dressers can't resist.
Jessica Alba wears skinny jeans and ballet flats on the red carpet in 2006.
Reflecting the cyclical nature of fashion, these old favourites have been reimagined for the modern wardrobe this winter. Read on to discover our edit of the best skinny jeans and ballet flats.
SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST SKINNY JEANS AND BALLET FLATS:
Style with ballet flats or wear these tucked into knee-high boots.
Tick off multiple trends at one with this chocolate-brown suede pair.
The leopard-print trend isn't showing any signs of slowing down.
These come in petite, regular and long lengths.
Cropping just above the ankle, these will pair particularly well with ballet flats.
Maison Margiela's Tabi flats are a fashion person's favourites.

Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer and has worked in the fashion industry since she graduated with a degree in Journalism from the University of the Arts London. Natalie’s experience in the industry spans journalistic and styling roles that have seen her work for publications including British Vogue, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK.
With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Reporting on a daily basis, Natalie focuses on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.
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