Ballet flats have been a closet staple for me for a few seasons now, and I’ve been around long enough to remember their explosive comeback in the early 2000s—and their more recent revival with mesh and woven styles. One thing I’ve learned is that every time ballet flats come back around, they get a little refresh. This season, we’re seeing higher-vamp silhouettes that cover more of the foot—no toe cleavage here! The designs are minimalist with subtle details, and with color making a major comeback, they feature plenty of fun hues and chic cap-toe color blocking.
For this ballet flat roundup, I focused on the styles that feel timeless, versatile, and worthy of a permanent spot in your closet. Because as much as I love a good trend, there’s nothing better than finding a pair of flats that look just as good with jeans and a T-shirt as they do with a dress or tailored trousers. Whether you’re looking to add to your ballet flat collection or find that one perfect pair you’ll wear on repeat, here are the styles I tried, loved, and reviewed!
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How I reviewed the best ballet flats
With ballet flats firmly back in my shoe rotation, I decided it was time to add a few new options to my closet. Rather than focusing solely on what’s trending, I wanted to find pairs that are stylish but also versatile. I tried on a mix of designs, from classic leather silhouettes to modern woven and suede styles from Tony Bianco, Dolce Vita, Madewell and Sam Edelman. For each pair, I considered five key factors: overall style, comfort, durability, price, and whether I’d buy them again (or be tempted to snag another color). Ahead, I’m sharing my honest thoughts on each pair, including which ones stood out and which are worth skipping.
Sam Edelman Alie Ballet Flat
Pros
- Classic ballet-flat silhouette with a feminine bow detail
- Versatile enough to style with jeans, trousers, skirts, and dresses
- Adds a polished touch to everyday outfits
- Comfortable right out of the box
Cons
- Sizing can be inconsistent, I went ½ size up from my usual
- Thinner soles may not provide enough support for long wear
These Sam Edelman Alie flats were comfortable right out of the box. In complete transparency, I knew I would keep this pair as soon as I tried it on. I chose the nude French sand leather because it instantly paired with everything in my closet. If you’re looking for a comfortable, stylish ballet flat that won’t compete with your outfit, this one is great.
The leather is incredibly soft, but the sole is on the thinner side. So I wouldn’t recommend these as your main walking shoe. However, they are perfect for casual wear and pair well with jeans, trousers and skirts, or dresses. Lots of colors are available.
Tony Bianco Brash Flat
Pros
- Sleek, modern square toe with a flattering V-cut neckline
- Supple leather gives these flats a polished, elevated look
- Chic and comfortable, even from the first wear
- A stylish alternative to classic round-toe ballet flats
Cons
- Run large. I recommend sizing down a full size.
- The roomy fit may not work as well for narrower feet
These are a great option if you want a ballet flat that feels a little more modern and refined than the traditional style. They look incredibly elevated and polished, and in my opinion are worth the price tag. I did have to send them back in exchange for a smaller size, so I would order two or try them on in store. Worth the hassle in my opinion, though.
Dolce Vita Mycah Wovan Flat
Pros
- Square toe feels contemporary and on-trend.
- Rubber sole offers a practical touch for everyday wear.
- Fit true to size.
Cons
- An investment flat that I’m not sure I’ll reach for often.
- The charcoal color is a chic neutral but better colors are available.
These are a great option if you want to try the woven-flat trend with a more understated, fall-friendly feel. The charcoal suede adds texture without being too flashy, and the square toe keeps the silhouette feeling current. I’d style them with relaxed denim, a cozy sweater, or tailored trousers for an easy, pulled-together everyday look. I also love a few other colorway options, and I’m leaning towards a more bright color in these to wear specifically for fall.
Steve Madden Divy Woven Flat
Pros
- Woven leather gives the flats a textured, elevated look that feels current.
- Delicate bow with bead detailing adds a feminine touch.
- The woven design adds visual interest without relying on a bold print.
Cons
- Runs small, ordered a half a size up
- The structured woven material feels casual
- The synthetic lining and sole, if you prefer an all-leather shoe.
These flats are a fun way to update a classic ballet flat for fall. The woven leather and beaded bow give them a little personality, while the brown color keeps them easy to style with everyday basics. I’d wear them with straight-leg jeans, a cozy cardigan, or tailored trousers. Just be sure to size up a half size. These felt very casual to me, so they would not work for special occasion outfits, but for everyday style they’re a great and comfortable option.
Sam Edelman Alie Ballet Flat (Croco Leather)
Pros
- Croc-embossed finish adds texture and a polished, fashion-forward feel.
- Easy way to incorporate the animal-texture trend without wearing a bold print.
- The timeless ballet-flat silhouette makes them easy to dress up or down.
- Comfortable right out of the box
Cons
- The glossy croc finish may feel dressier than a matte leather flat for casual, everyday outfits.
- The low-profile design offers minimal arch support for all-day wear.
The croc version gives the Alie flat a little more personality than the classic style. I love the combination of the glossy, textured finish and feminine bow, which makes these feel polished without being overly dressy. I’d pair them with pretty much everything in my closet, as a pop of color and texture. They were just as comfortable as the more neutral pair I tried on and other fun combinations are also available. Three stars here are for lack of versatility, as you have to embrace them as a statement piece in your outfit—which isn’t necessarily a bad thing in my book.
The Mylie Ballet Flat
Pros
- Sleek square toe gives this classic ballet flat a modern, fashion-forward look.
- Soft leather upper creates a flexible, glove-like fit.
- Comfortable right out of the box
- Versatile enough to style with jeans, pants and dresses
- Available in a range of colors and materials, including suede and leather.
Cons
- Inconsistent sizing.
- The toe box can feel narrow or tight, especially for wider feet.
- The delicate leather may scuff, crease, or tear with regular wear.
- Slight squeaking while walking.
- The flat sole and limited cushioning may not provide enough support.
The Mylie is a chic, understated flat that feels current without being overly trendy. The square toe and glove-like silhouette make it easy to pair with everything from relaxed denim to tailored pants and dresses looks very polished and flattering on the foot. I ordered my usual size and found the fit perfect, though I have noticed several reviews with sizing inconsistencies. I love the way these feel instantly comfortable, though I’d like a little more cushioning for longer wear.
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Alina Orozco, Commerce Editor
Alina Orozco is the Commerce Editor at The Everymom, where she combines her editorial experience with a love for finding products that make everyday life easier and more stylish. To The Everymom, Alina brings over 10+ years of editorial publishing and digital storytelling experience, as well as snippets of her real-life mom style, making fashion trends accessible and fun for every mom. She now lives in a cozy beach town in Southern California with her husband and their two boys, but she’ll always be a Philly girl at heart.
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