It is no surprise that classic ballet flats have been around for nearly 70 years. The style was inadvertently created by iconic actress and pioneer of French-girl style Brigitte Bardot, who requested a pair of shoes as "lightweight and flexible as true ballet slippers" from designer Rose Repetto back in 1956, according to Repetto's CEO, Jean-Marc Gaucher.
Today, the style remains as enduring as ever. While it may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of "trendy" shoes, brands like The Row, Miu Miu, Tory Burch, and more have all released new iterations of the timeless style. From croc-effect and snakeskin to classic leather and suede, there's certainly a pair of ballet flats for everyone.
We took it upon ourselves to source the best ballet flats on the market right now. These 27 styles hail from legacy designers like Prada and Gucci as well as affordable brands like Mango and H&M. No matter your price point, these picks are stylish and timeless enough to wear for years to come.
The point of these ballet flats makes them look so much more expensive than they are.
The chain detail on these flats is so chic.
This color!
These square-toed black flats are incredibly chic, not to mention affordable.
Leopard-print flats? Don't mind if we do.
Quilted flats are a must-have for any wardrobe.
Meet the perfect tan ballet flats.
Mary Jane ballet flats will always be in style.
Everlane's sustainably made ballet flats are a sound investment.
Porte & Paire's two-tone flats will go with any outfit.
Note the ruched strap on these flats.
These flats are a perennial favorite among the fashion set.
You can wear these season after season.
Metallic flats are the perfect way to add a little shine to all your ensembles.
These scalloped ballet flats will elevate any look.
Everything about these flats is perfection—from the square toe to the peekaboo cutout.
Clearly, we love a two-tone moment.
Just imagine all the ways you can style these flats.
If you love Wandler's chic bags, you'll also love its ballerina flats.
The Row's satin ballet flats resemble actual pointe shoes, and we're here for it.
These slingback ballet flats further prove that Prada can do no wrong.
You simply cannot beat classic Manolo Blahnik ballet flats.
The topstitch detailing paired with the anklet makes these arguably the coolest ballet flats on the market right now.
Peak ballerina energy.
We simply must own these Gucci ballerina flats.
Leave it to Jimmy Choo to make the prettiest ballet flats.
Now here's a pair of designer ballet flats that's sure to stand the test of time.
