Fashion People Are Favouring "Glove" Ballet Flats for Spring

published 12 March 2025

As much as comfort dictates my daily styling, I'm honestly not much of a flat-shoe person.

Whilst I'm partial to an oversized layer and an elasticated pant, in the footwear department, I'm content to endure a little bit of discomfort if it means I can slip into a shoe that makes me feel my best. This season, however, I've finally found a flat-shoe silhouette that I genuinely love. Just as sleek, polished and comfortable as the ballet flats that have been trending for the past few seasons, the "glove" flat-shoe trend is the one I can't help but reach for every day at the moment.

With a skin-hugging design that offers more coverage than a traditional ballet flat, these flats have a streamlined finish that adds polish to any outfit. The uncomplicated silhouette stops them from feeling fussy or prim, as bow-adorned ballerinas easily can.

Pairing well with jeans, this pared-back shoe can easily meet the demands of early spring styling, with enough fabric to keep your feet shielded against the occasional puddle. They're also lightweight enough to keep you cool and comfy during hotter days.

A breakout shoe style this season, I've spotted so many brands experimenting with the new spring trend. From Essen's burgundy pair that already have the seal of approval from Who What Wear UK editor-in-chief, Hannah Almassi—who racked up a 16K step count wearing hers in Paris over the weekend—to H&M's simple black style that I honestly can't believe is still in stock, there are plenty of chic options well worth a look in.

Whilst these shoes are a no-brainer for styling with jeans, I've also seen some elegant looks that pair the slipper-like design with flowing skirts and tailored trousers that have entirely inspired my spring looks.

If you also want to revamp your footwear collection for spring 2025, read on to discover my edit of the best glove ballet flats.

SHOP GLOVE-LIKE BALLET FLATS:

H&M

Leather Ballet Pumps

Honestly, I really can't see these staying in stock for long.

Arket

Mesh Ballerinas in Black

These also come in white and red.

COS

Leather Ballet Flats

The high-coverage design makes these perfect for spring's early days.

Soeur

Brown Bala Ballet Flats in Black

These also come in four other shades.

Toteme

Knitted Ballet Flats

Toteme's knitted iteration is perfect for transitional styling.

ESSĒN

The Foundation Flat

Our editor-in-chief is a big fan of these comfortable flats.

Massimo Dutti

Soft Round Toe Ballet Flats

Style these with cosy socks whilst the weather remains chilly, then go without come summer.

A.Emery

Briot Leather Ballet Flats

The ruched detailing at the heel ensures a comfortable fit

Arket

Leather Ballet Flats in Black

These also come in an apple-green shade.

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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.