The Ballet Flat is Trending Again for 2023

Get ready to pirouette this season because the ballet flat continues to be a big shoe trend for 2023. But in all honesty, can we take them off the trend list and please move it to timeless list? It’s about time!

Ballet flats in my opinion are the epitome of timeless elegance and comfort and they are a wardrobe essential for women of all ages! Shoutout to me in high school but I’m also grateful my overall personal style has evolved.

Ballet flats are often associated with French fashion and style. They have been a staple in French wardrobes for decades and are considered an essential element of the classic Parisian chic look and that is what I am here for!

I just found my perfect pair (can’t wait to tell you about them) and will be incorporating them into my daily styles until the snow flies.

In today’s journal, we’ll unravel the world of ballet flats by delving into their iconic style, notable designers, materials you should look out for, how to care for them for longevity, styling tips and touch on their delightful blend of fashion and comfort.

Let’s dig in!

*Also many shoppable links below! Including the ballet flats I am loving right now in every colour! If you’re looking for outfit specifics you can find those links in my YouTube video description. Accessories linked below! This blog is not at all sponsored I just love the brand Margaux and believe in what they’re doing! Thanks! xo

Watch on YouTube

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SHOP ACCESSORIES SHOWN IN THE 10 OUTFITS HERE

Why Add Ballet Flats to Your Wardrobe?

You’re on this blog so I am going to assume you’ve been mulling over the decision to add these to your wardrobe. Or you’ve just dug them out of the back of your 2010’s closet because you heard they’re back in style.

I’m a little biased and am not going to bury the lead — I’m here to convince you they are here to stay.

As we know, ballet flats are inspired by the graceful footwear of ballet dancers and embody a unique blend of sophistication and simplicity. Their enduring appeal is grounded in:

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1. Timeless Elegance

Ballet flats exude an effortless and enduring charm, making them a versatile choice for various outfits and occasions (as showcased in this blog). Perfect for day and night I really think finding the best ballet flats for you is like finding the perfect pair of denim.

2. Versatility

These shoes effortlessly transition from casual jeans to elegant dresses, making them a staple in every fashion-conscious person’s closet. If you’re a fan of sneakers and sandals I believe the ballet flat should be in your shoe arsenal.

3. Feminine Aesthetic

With their rounded or almond-shaped toes and subtle embellishments, ballet flats add a touch of femininity to any ensemble. Even though they lean more feminine in style – editors over the years have been able to showcase how even the “cool girls” style them. (Photos below sourced from Pinterest – follow my Pinterest boards here)

4. Comfort and Fashion Combined

Ballet flats offer the perfect blend of fashion and comfort:

• Comfortable Soles: Their flat and flexible soles ensure natural foot movement and reduced fatigue.
• No Heel Strain: Unlike high heels, ballet flats provide comfort without straining calf muscles.
• Breathability: Many feature breathable materials, making them ideal for warm weather. (This is only if you choose a natural versus synthetic material more on this later).

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Where to Buy The Best Ballet Flats

I Found My Perfect Pair from Margaux New York

Maybe you stumbled on my cozy little nook of the internet because you were searching the same keywords I was a month back. My Google search bar reading, “Where to find the perfect ballet flats?” again and again.

After extensive research I found Margaux New York.

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The Reviews Said It All

The reviews were glowing! Countless customers claiming comfortable they are, sturdy quality, well constructed shoes and overall being extremely happy with their buy. I can now verify I am one of those customers!

The Classic, The Pointed and the Mesh Ballet Flats

I am so impressed with the products featured on Margaux because of the variety of styles, the feel and how they’ve taken the ballerina and modernized it for 2023 and beyond. If you are someone who has always searched for stylish flat shoes (not to forget to mention they have a ton of other styles on their site as well) you will find them here.

I purchased The Demi Saddle Nappa and have been blown away with the over all quality and even the unboxing experience. Through this blog and on YouTube you’ll see me styling them in 10 different ways.

Shop The Demi

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Shop The Pointe

Shop the Mesh Pointe

Fashion History: Ballet Flats Through Time

I love looking at the major fashion houses to see what will be trickling down through the high-street. The influence of iconic designers and brands on the popularity of ballet flats cannot be overstated. Among the notable figures and labels:

Chanel’s Legacy

The modern popularity of ballet flats can be largely attributed to the legendary fashion designer Coco Chanel. In the 1950s, Chanel introduced the iconic two-tone ballet flat with a black toe cap, creating a timeless and elegant style that remains popular today.

There is just something so elegant about the Chanel silhouette that has me swooning every time I see them on Pinterest. Manifesting a pair for the future!

Audrey Hepburn’s Favourite

Another cultural influence on the popularity of ballet flats was the actress Audrey Hepburn. She often wore them in her movies and personal life, contributing to their status as a symbol of timeless elegance and grace. Salvatore Ferragamo custom-crafted ballet flats for the legendary Audrey Hepburn, cemented their status as a fashion icon.

Era-defining Figures

Ballet flats graced the feet of fashion icons like Jackie Kennedy and Princess Diana in the 1950s and ’60s, reinforcing their timeless appeal. The last time they had a major resurgence was the 2010’s and now today we are seeing them on the runway once again from the likes of Chanel, Prada and Miu Miu – call it “balletcore”.

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What Material Ballet Flat Should I Buy?

Understanding the materials used in ballet flats is crucial for informed choices. Often times the materials you choose will be dictated by budget however there are cases where brands try to put lipstick on a pig. Here are the key materials you should be on the lookout for!

Leather:

Known for its durability, breathability and comfort, leather ballet flats are timeless classics. Leather will mould to your foot creating an increasingly comfortable fit over time. When possible opt for leather as your main material.

Suede:

Offering a soft and luxurious texture, suede flats add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. I love a suede shoe, however there is some room for these to be ruined if not cared for properly. If you purchase a pair of suede shoes of any kind be sure to spray them with a protectant – find one here.

Satin:

Ideal for formal occasions, satin ballet flats are elegant and luxurious. Most likely an occasion shoe versus an everyday favourite.

Synthetic Materials:

While budget-friendly, synthetic flats may lack breathability, making them best for occasional wear. Keep in mind the smelly reputation they got in the 2010’s was likely because they were mass produced from synthetic materials.

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What Colour Ballet Flat is Most Popular?

Selecting the right pair of ballet flats takes time and consideration. As does adding anything worthwhile to your wardrobe.

For a versatile and timeless wardrobe consider a neutral palette. The neutral colour wheel includes tan, brown, navy and black. These colours really allow to have maximum versatility.

However, if you are someone who loves to really express bolder parts of your personality through accessories like shoes you can absolutely do that here. You can find ballet flats in bold colours like red, patterns like leopard, and many textures.

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How to Care For Your Ballet Flats

Caring for and maintaining ballet flats is essential to ensure their longevity and keep them looking stylish. Here are some tips to help you care for your ballet flats:

Regular Cleaning

• Wipe off dirt and dust with a soft cloth or a shoe brush after each wear to prevent the accumulation of grime.
• For leather or suede ballet flats, use a damp cloth or sponge to gently clean the surface. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions, as different materials may require specific cleaning methods.

Stain Protection

• To prevent stains on leather, suede, or fabric ballet flats, consider applying a water and stain repellent spray. This helps create a protective barrier against spills and stains.

Storage

• When not in use, store ballet flats in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and material damage.
• Use shoe trees or shoe shapers to help maintain their shape and absorb moisture.

Rotate Wear

• Rotate your shoes and avoid wearing the same pair of ballet flats every day. This gives them time to air out and reduces wear and tear.

Address Scuffs and Scratches

• For leather flats, you can use a leather conditioner or cream to moisturize the leather and minimize the appearance of scuffs and scratches. Apply it according to the product instructions.
• For suede flats, you can use a suede brush to gently restore the nap and remove minor scuffs.

Avoid Water Damage

• Keep ballet flats away from water and moisture. If they get wet, stuff them with newspaper and let them air dry at room temperature. Avoid using heat sources like radiators or hairdryers, as these can damage the material.

Replace Worn Soles

• If the soles of your ballet flats become worn or damaged, consider having them resoled by a professional cobbler to extend their lifespan.

Regular Inspections

• Periodically inspect your ballet flats for signs of wear, loose stitching, or damage. Address any issues promptly to prevent further deterioration.

Professional Cleaning

• For more stubborn stains or deep cleaning needs, consider taking your ballet flats to a professional shoe cleaner or cobbler.

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No Foreseeable Final Bow for the Ballet Flat

I remember loving and wearing ballet flats a ton in the 2010’s. I was an early adopter and I’m happy to say they are firmly back in my rotation. As you may know, I love feminine style and ballet flats seamlessly work with my personal style.

Ballet flats have the unique ability to bridge the gap between formal and casual wear. They represent the pinnacle of timeless fashion and unmatched comfort. Their adaptability, classic design, and unwavering comfort make them a must-have for every fashion-forward woman. So if you’ve been debating adding these to your wardrobe I hope I just added a few more points in the pros column!

Thanks for being here! And all the best in your search for pieces that will stand the test of time!

Amanda xo

Ps. If you’re looking for more style content centred around one piece I recommend “Why the Denim Dress is a Summer Wardrobe Staple” as it is also a perfect transition piece for fall. Let me know on YouTube what piece I should cover next!

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