On first glance, one might be taken back by the sheer number of ballet flats (particular of the black leather kind) that are currently sat, or should I say, shoved on my shoe rack at home. So much so that my friend recently created a game, which involved blindfolding me while she placed each ballet flat on my foot, asking me to tell her exactly which style it was and where it was from, for bonus points. One can only respect said friend’s efforts in trying to out me for my extensive collection, but in fact, the test only strengthened my case, as I was able to guess each pair correctly.
My ballet flat rotation:
Yet with so many flats on the market these days – from vintage icons like Repetto, to modern iterations from high-street stalwarts Arket, Topshop and more – it’s become harder than ever to know which pairs are actually worth your investment. And, most importantly, which styles don’t skimp on comfort (a non-negotiable for me as a wearer of ballet flats for all occasions and seasons).
Most days, I find myself reaching for a black leather glove-style ballet flat. As someone with a relatively minimalist approach to everyday dressing, I find this iteration of the ballerina looks, and feels, the most relaxed, and has the potential to pull together almost any outfit – from long shorts and a tank to baggy jeans and a V-neck knit. But there’s also no denying the French-girl ballet flat, which typically features a chic low vamp and a rigid, often patent leather, exterior – it’s the perfect addition to an outfit in need of a daintier finish.
From one ballet flat obsessive to another, here is my edit of the the styles I wear on repeat.
The glove ballet flats
The french ballet flats
The satin ballet flats
The embellished ballerina
Leather Studded Tie Ballet Pumps
The soft ballet flat
The under-£100 ballerinas
The shearling lined ballet flats
Aeropi Shearling-Trimmed Suede Ballet Flats
The statement ballerinas
Lambskin & Patent Calfskin Ballet Flats
