My daily routine involves plenty of walks, whether to the office, cute lunch spots, or heading out on a casual springtime stroll. Whatever my destination, I can guarantee you will find me wearing comfortable shoes. From trainers to cowboy boots, I've found that the flatter the better—and with a strong aversion to heels comes an equally strong intuition for the best alternatives.
Hence, one of my longtime favourite footwear styles is a ballet flat. The wardrobe basic needs no introduction, but can be instantly recognised thanks to its slimline, ballerina-like silhouette and traditionally flat sole—though the humble shoe has been reimagined countless times in the past few seasons alone.
On the catwalks, luxury brands like Gucci, Chloé, Miu Miu, and Prada have all launched their own takes on the key Spring/Summer 2025 shoe style, adding everything from square toes and Mary-Jane-inspired detailing, to lace-up fronts—and the street style set has wholeheartedly adopted each and every one.
But you don't need to invest in designer ballet flats to tap into the trend. There are plenty of more affordable everyday flats on the market right now, many of which look suspiciously similar to the big-brand styles (to the trained eye, at least).
Although whichever everyday flat you choose to invest in, you can rest assured you'll get serious bang for your buck. The street style set are proof that this is as versatile a shoe as any, while simultaneously offering plenty of outfit inspiration.
Ballet flats are as fabulous styled with a fun mini skirt and rugby top combination, or a sequinned skirt and oversized tee, as they are with something as simple as a pair of jeans and tank top. They'll also serve you well as a smart yet comfy shoe option for work—particularly during a heatwave—or a more formal evening occasion. The styling options are truly endless.
Ready to find your next pair of perfect everyday ballet flats? Keep scrolling ahead for my hand-picked selection of the most stylish yet comfortable pairs available to shop now, from standout maximalist styles to simple classics. Trust me, your feet will thank you.
Shop the best everyday flats
Elevate your everyday outfits with this pair of textured leopard print flats. I'd style them with classic jeans and a lace-trimmed slip camisole to trick off multiple trends in one.
Mesh flats have been a major trend ever since last year, and they're not going anywhere. Coming in three different colourways and currently at 15% off for H&M members, this red pair is top of my wish list.
First seen at Gucci's Cruise 2025 show, the brand's Horsebit ballerinas are a future collectible in the making.
I'm mentally styling these ballerina flats with all of my favourite summer dresses, just as soon as the sun (finally) comes out.
An excellent option for those looking to upgrade their work-friendly flats, these shoes feature a classic silhouette with an added cross-strap detail for extra elegance.
This embellished denim style from Ganni is giving Y2K nostalgia but with a lace-up detail that's bang on trend right now.
The keyhole detailing in these chocolate brown ballet flats instantly adds a fresh, new-season feel.
Spanish brand Flabelus is a classic choice for those seeking stylish shoes that can withstand even the hottest summer days. They'll work both at beach and in the city—I've walked up to 10 kilometres in mine without a single blister.
Pair these sleek designer flats with your favourite everyday jeans, or take some styling cues from Miu Miu girls by layering them over sheer knee-high stockings and a midi skirt for a high-fashion feel.
If you want to take the balletcore trend as literally as possible, this pretty satin pink style is perfect.
Suede is everywhere right now, thanks to the boho fashion revival, so it was only a matter of time before the material came for our flats, too.
Delicate yet contemporary, these leopard-print ballet flats are a great new-season investment shoe.
Remember last season's ubiquitous studded flats? Well, I'm happy to confirm that the style is still very much on trend, and this mixed-metal style is one of the best around.
2025 brides, listen up! If you're heel-adverse but still looking for a timeless pair of bridal shoes, these Prada ballet flats are an elegant investment that will keep you comfortable on your feet all night.
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