I'm on a quest to find the chicest alternatives to ballet flats. As much as I love the classic shoe (this was confirmed the moment I saw Miu Miu's satin iteration debut in its autumn/winter 2022 collection), they're not the most practical, and the pairs I've owned have simply been unable to survive high step counts.
Despite fluctuating in mainstream visibility throughout the 21st century, ballet flats have always remained a firm footwear fixture for some of the most fashionable people across Europe. From Alexa Chung to Sienna Miller and countless French women, the reason is simple—ballet flats are delicate and elegant and bring a classic sense of sophistication to even the most basic looks.
Yet, as anyone who experienced the first reign of ballet flats in the early 2000s can attest, whilst their ability to make your outfits feel as graceful as a dancer moving across a grand operatic stage en pointe is indisputable, they’re anything but sturdy.
It’s well-known that the shoe lacks the crucial foot support and cushioning to endure long days of wear. Still, the refined silhouette and countless styles—Alaïa’s mesh flats! Ganni’s viral buckle iteration! Tory Burch's studded leather pair!—warrants their appeal, meaning we always find ourselves returning to the timeless silhouette, irrespective of the associated podiatry problems.
This is a plight I’m all too familiar with. As an 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 a dreamy dusty-pink, square-toe pair from & Other Stories on my wish list—but as I come to grips with their lack of longevity, my mind has turned to the other classy and comfortable flat-shoe styles that serve as viable alternatives to ballet flats.
Consequently, I’ve discovered a whole world of practical substitutes as durable as they are chic and effortless to wear.
Best of all, these styles 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 slot into your existing repertoire.
From the Mary Janes spotted all over Paris to the suede loafers London fashion people can’t stop wearing, keep scrolling for the six best alternatives to ballet flats.
6 Chic Alternatives to Ballet Flats
1. Mary Janes
Style Notes: Mary Janes are the shoe style most similar to ballet flats (nearly identical, save for the addition of a strap that crosses over the foot), so it was only fitting that I start this edit with them. This simple strap is crucial to achieving a different silhouette. Not only does it appear on some of the most covetable pairs of shoes of the decade, but it also helps bring extra polish to your look.
Shop Mary Janes:
Aeyde shoes come highly editor-approved, and this satin-finish pair in particular is a favourite amongst the Who What Wear UK team.
This H&M pair look so much more expensive than they are.
Corduroy feels so fun for spring.
What to Wear With Mary Janes
Just look to Hailey Bieber for proof that leather workwear-style jackets and black Mary Janes are a match made in heaven.
This pencil skirt has a Saint Laurent feel and an expensive-looking-high-street price point.
2. Flip-Flops
Style Notes: Fabrics like denim and wool can sometimes feel antithetical to ballet flats, which make outfits like Monikh Dale's enviable look (pictured above) a prime candidate for an alternative ballet flat. Suede flip-flops bring in another surprising contrast element that complements both the tones and sturdiness of the other fabrics featured in this outfit. Of course, you might not think these are the best shoes for all-day walking either, but in the summer months when your feet are blistered and sweaty from being stuffed into a pair of leather flats, you'll be begging for the breezy relief of flip-flops (even if you'll only last wearing them till lunchtime).
Shop Flip-Flops:
The suede shoe trend shows no sign of slowing down, and these elevated flip-flops are such a great alternative to ballet flats, especially for balmy climes.
The Row's Ginza sandals are arguable the most coveted designer flip-flops.
A super-chic way to do a pop of blue.
What to Wear With Flip-Flops
The shape and shoulders of this jacket are almost Victorian-esque, which is one of the biggest blouse trends for 2025.
The ultra-wide leg shape of these pinstripe trousers is perfect for the warmer months.
3. Slipper Mules
Style Notes: French women can always be counted on for outfit inspiration. Parisian muse Sylvie Mus proves slippers can achieve a similar effect to ballet flats (pictured above), making them an ideal alternative for more casual outfits. Best of all, the exposed heel elongates your legs, which is also a styling tip for petite women.
Shop Slipper Mules:
Like slip-on loafers, these flat mules are a new take on an enduring silhouette.
Similar to the above pair but in another chic colourway and at a fraction of the price.
Once you slip these on, you'll never want to take them off.
What to Wear With Slipper Mules
This premium basic from Whistles boasts a dainty V-neck shape and is made from breathable viscose.
In need of the perfect straight-leg denim? Look no further than the COS Arch jeans.
4. Slingback Kitten Heels
Style Notes: There's nothing I love more than wearing ballet flats to an evening event; I think it's such an unexpectedly glamorous footwear choice. But when I want to feel a little sleeker or have to navigate poor weather conditions, I've been swapping out flats for a kitten heel.
Shop Slingback Kitten Heels:
The magical trifecta: a kitten heel, pointed toe and slingback design.
This glossy red pair demands to be worn with an LBD as your go-to date-night outfit.
These technically aren't a kitten heel, but I had to throw in a chic option for those exclusively looking for a flat shoe.
What to Wear With Slingback Kitten Heels
This coat will last you for so many seasons.
I love the intricate embellishment on this set.
5. Suede Loafers
Style Notes: Given how soft ballet flats can be, I often feel they can make my looks lack the structure other footwear styles provide. Suede loafers are the perfect antidote and remind me of the power of this preppy-influenced style; the rigid form helps to add an element of cohesion to loose garments.
Shop Suede Loafers:
Be quick—these M&S suede loafers are sure to sell out again.
A new take on the classic penny loafer that's just as timeless.
I love the moccasin finish of the sole.
What to Wear With Suede Loafers
A zip-up leather jacket will give your look shape.
After trying on Reformation's best-selling Cary low-rise, wide-leg jeans in person, I can honestly say they're worth the price.
6. Tie-Up Mary Janes
Style Notes: Iris Law is a pioneer of unconventional footwear choices, but there's something about these tie-up Mary Janes that feels equally ahead of the curve yet easily wearable. Okay, they're technically the second Mary-Jane style to make my list, but considering how current this particular design is, I couldn't overlook them. Instead of a strap, the bow finish reinvents the ribbon mania that cropped up a couple of years ago in 2023 and became synonymous with the coquette trend. They feel whimsical, childlike and eclectic all at the same time.
Shop Tie-Up Mary Janes:
These tie-up flats from M&S bring a subtle twist to a Mary-Jane shape that will be everywhere come spring.
Animal print is a huge trend for 2025, and these Reformation flats feel like summer's answer to Khaite's Nevada boots.
For those still aboard the mesh flats train, these are a fresh choice.
What to Wear With Tie-Up Mary Janes
The mother-of-pearl buttons make this top look far more expensive than it is.
A tiered organza skirt is such an elegant way of bringing dimension and contrast to your look.
