Ballet Flats Are Trending — Here Are the Best Places to Buy the Celeb-Approved Style
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Celebrities from Jennifer Lopez to Katie Holmes have been spotted sporting the timeless flat
Shopping for shoes online can get a bit tricky, which is why it helps to know where to shop. This is especially true for the trending ballet flat style, as it’s a shoe that boasts lots of comfort and versatility but also requires durability and craftsmanship to be on point (pun intended) in order to last.
“Ballet flats are a timeless classic and iconic wardrobe must-have,” says John Smith, a textile designer and stylist. Since ballet flats tend to have a sleek and simple design, Smith notes that they are also one of the most versatile shoe styles that can go with almost any outfit (especially if you're needing closed-toe shoes for work). “Ballet flats have a certain elegance and sophistication to them which makes them an ideal choice for both casual and formal looks,” he adds.
Which is probably why so many celebrities have sported the style, including Katie Holmes, Kate Middleton, and Jennifer Lopez. Before you jump on the bandwagon, there are a few things to consider. With so many different variations and styles available, finding the best place to shop for ballet flats can be overwhelming, especially if you want a shoe that not only looks good but is also supportive and comfortable (which isn’t always the case for some flat shoe styles). With this in mind, we curated a list of our favorite places to shop for ballet flats with a good range of styles and colors, as well as the most high-quality construction, comfort, and support.
From timeless to preppy and everything in between, these are the best places to buy ballet flats online.
Amazon
Amazon
Who It’s Good For
Amazon is a great place to score some budget-friendly ballet flats that can be shipped quickly.
Who It’s Not Good For
While there are plenty of options across price points and styles, some people may be overwhelmed by the thousands of options to choose from.
Amazon is another one of the best places to shop for ballet flats because the marketplace offers so many different varieties in brands, styles, colors, sizes, and prices — seriously, you can get a pair for just $10. And if you’re a Prime member, you can count on free shipping, easy returns, and the option to actually try on select ballet flats via Amazon's Try Before You Buy program (like the Amazon Essentials Belice Ballet Flat) before purchasing, which completely elevates the online shoe shopping experience. We also love shopping on Amazon because the lists feature allows you to save styles you love and wish to come back to (or easily share a wishlist for birthdays, holidays, and more).
Price range at time of publish: $9.99-$495
Size Range: 3-16 | Return Policy: Free returns within 30 days of shipment | Shipping Policy: Free next-day and 2-day shipping for Prime members
Target
Target
Who It's Good For
Anyone wanting to choose from ballet flats all under $75, with an option for in-store pick-up, will appreciate Target's offerings.
Who It's Not Good For
Retailers like Amazon and Nordstrom have a wider variety to choose from.
Target is great for a host of things, but we especially love the retailer for its women's clothing and accessories, especially the shoe options. It's no surprise then that there are plenty of ballet flats to choose from online. We especially love A New Day's Jackie Ballet Flats, which feature a classic style and price tag of just $20.
It's no secret that Target is up on the trends. The retailer offers all sorts of styles, including pointed toe, ankle wrapped, embellished, knit, and quilted ballet flats from its in-house brand A New Day to Madden Girl, Journee Collection, Dearfoams, and Allegra K.
Price range at time of publish: $14.99-$69.99
Size Range: 5-12 | Return Policy: Within 90 days for most items, plus a free return label | Shipping Policy: Free shipping in the U.S. on orders $35+, free for RedCard members
DSW
DSW
Who It’s Good For
Plenty of budget-friendly ballet flats from a variety of brands can be found at this popular shoe retailer.
Who It’s Not Good For
While the price range is quite inclusive, there aren't as many high-end options compared to other places, such as Nordstrom.
DSW is home to classic and trendy ballet flat styles at excellent price points. We love the shoe retailer because it makes it easy to search for ballet flat styles with the site's filter feature, allowing you to shop by brand, size, width, color, toe shape, and more. Plus, it carries some really high-quality and durable options from trusted brands such as Sketchers, Lucky Brand (we love the Emjane Mary Jane Ballet Flats), and Dr. Scholl’s. If you're a bride-to-be, the store also has several bridal options, including from Betsey Johnson and Franco Sarto.
Price range at time of publish: $29.98-$399.99
Size Range: 3.5-13 | Return Policy: Within 90 days of purchase | Shipping Policy: Free shipping over $75
Nordstrom
Nordstrom
Who It’s Good For
If you prefer to have a breadth of quality options to choose from (in terms of brands and styles), Nordstrom is the place for you.
Who It’s Not Good For
While the retailer does offer options at a variety of price points, there may not be as many budget-friendly options compared to places like Amazon, Target, and DSW.
Nordstrom is another one of our go-to retailers for ballet flats because the department store offers so much variety (especially online) when it comes to designers, brands, and styles. Plus, if you have a rough idea of what you’re looking for, the website has an easy-to-navigate filter that allows you to narrow down your search while still showcasing different options. More perks of shopping at Nordstrom: free standard shipping on all orders, a lenient return policy, and a seamless return/exchange process.
Price range at time of publish: $40.99-$289.99
Size Range: 4-13 | Return Policy: Lenient case-by-case | Shipping Policy: Free standard shipping
Sam Edelman
Sam Edelman
Who It’s Good For
The brand is known for its scrunch ballet flat style, which is offered in a collection of classic and bold colors.
Who It’s Not Good For
Most of these ballet flats are over $100, which is more middle of the road in terms of ballet flat prices.
For those who love the scrunch ballet flat look, Sam Edelman has pretty much nailed this design with its collection of comfortable ballet flats. In addition to the scrunch detail, the shoe brand also boasts a vast collection of options, ranging from different colors, materials, textures, and patterns, so there truly is a flat for everyone. For those who don’t love the scrunched look, rest assured that Sam Edelman makes more traditional ballet flat styles, too, like the Felicia Luxe Ballet Flat in Saddle, which is currently on sale.
Price range at time of publish: $64-$150
Size Range: 5-11 | Return Policy: Within 30 days of purchase for a full refund | Shipping Policy: Free on all orders in the continental U.S.
Everlane
Everlane
Who It’s Good For
Everlane's ballet flats are made of Italian Nappa leather and feature a little more foot coverage than most.
Who It’s Not Good For
These ballet flats are more minimalistic, so try other options on this list if you're wanting a more modern version.
Everlane also makes some gorgeous ballet flat styles. We love them because they take the traditional ballet flat silhouette and elevate it with modern design, resulting in flats that feature a little more coverage on the tops of the feet.
Additionally, Everlane’s ballet flats are constructed from high-quality Italian Nappa leather that is meant to wrap comfortably around the soles and form fit to your feet so that, over time, your ballet flats become an extension of you.
Price range at time of publish: $135-$155
Size Range: 5-11 | Return Policy: Within 30 days of ship date | Shipping Policy: Free shipping over $75
Dolce Vita
Dolce Vita
Who It's Good For
Anyone wanting to browse chic ballet flat styles in various neutrals and textures would appreciate Dolce Vita's offerings.
Who It's Not Good For
Aside from a dusty blue hue, these flats feature a timeless, minimalist appeal — meaning they may not be the best choice for someone looking for bolder colors or renditions.
Former ballerinas or minimalists especially will sing the praises of the timeless appeal and neutral colors that make up the Dolce Vita's ballet flat collection. With most styles offered up to size 13, these flats emphasize versatility, as they can be worn with so many outfits for so many occasions, whether you're headed to the office, a dinner date, or just running errands around town and want to look more put-together. Plus, Dolce Vita just dropped its For Love & Lemons collaboration, which features unique whimsical details, from the silky material to the bow appliqués.
Price range at time of publish: $100-$130
Size Range: 5-13 | Return Policy: Within 30 days of delivery, except clearance items which are final sale | Shipping Policy: Free shipping above $50 in the contiguous U.S.
Madewell
Madewell
Who It’s Good For
Madewell is known for its well-made leather goods, so it's a great place for anyone needing quality leather ballet flats.
Who It’s Not Good For
There aren't as many style options here compared to other retailers listed.
Madewell is home to two of our favorite ballet flats — the Maguire Prato and Greta Ballet Flat in Metallic — so we had to add it to our list. In addition to these two styles, we love shopping for flats (and other shoe styles, as well as bags) on Madewell because of the high-quality leather it uses to produce its products. According to the brand, it sources leather from a tannery that is gold-certified by LGW (Leather Working Group), an organization that helps to promote sustainable practices in the industry.
Additionally, the retailer also has an online marketplace with items from small businesses and designers, making it easy to shop small, find new brands and designers you love, and come across some truly unique designs.
Price range at time of publish: $98-$195
Size Range: 5-11 | Return Policy: Within 30 days of purchase for full refund | Shipping Policy: $3 economy shipping (or free for Madewell Insiders)
J.Crew
J. Crew
Who It’s Good For
J.Crew offers classic ballet flat styles in a range of colors as well as comfortable, quality construction.
Who It’s Not Good For
These flats are made from genuine leather, so those wanting a vegan leather option should look elsewhere.
J.Crew is one of our go-to retailers for preppy style, and they also happen to offer an excellent collection of classic ballet flats, too. If you’re looking for a basic leather ballet flat with a minimalistic design, this is definitely the place to shop. We love its flats because, in addition to style, they come in a variety of colors — ranging from neutrals like black and brown to brighter pinks and reds — as well as different textures, from snake-embossed leather to satin to suede. They also have a flexible sole that makes walking in ballet flats much more comfortable.
Price range at time of publish: $128-$178
Size Range: 5-12 | Return Policy: Within 30 days of purchase for a full refund, minus the $7.50 return label | Shipping Policy: $5 standard shipping or free shipping if you become a J.Crew Passport member (free to sign up)
Rothy's
Rothy's
Who It’s Good For
Rothy's machine washable ballet flats are constructed from a sustainable knit material that's made from recycled plastic bottles.
Who It’s Not Good For
You'll want to look elsewhere if you're in the market for a leather ballet flats.
Rothy’s puts an eco-friendly spin on ballet flats by constructing styles from fabric sourced from recycled post-consumer plastic water bottles (it takes approximately 11 bottles to make one pair of The Point flats). While we certainly love them for this, it’s not even the most amazing thing about Rothy’s. In addition to the sustainable construction, the flats are incredibly well-made with durable, comfortable soles and a fit that doesn’t require breaking in. They are also completely machine washable, which makes caring for them (and keeping them stench-free) a breeze.
Price range at time of publish: $129-$159
Size Range: 5-13 | Return Policy: Within 30 days of delivery for a full refund | Shipping Policy: Free
Vivaia
Vivaia
Who It’s Good For
These ballet flats are machine washable, which is great for anyone who commutes often or just needs that added convenience.
Who It’s Not Good For
Since they are made from a machine-washable knit material, there aren't any leather or vegan leather options.
It’s no secret that ballet flats can acquire a pretty sour stench after lots of wear, so having a pair that you can throw in the washing machine is a major perk. For excellent machine-washable ballet flats, we love Vivaia’s collection of flats. From square-toe to point-toe styles, they offer a lot of different ballet flat styles in an expansive collection of colors (which also includes limited-edition hues). In addition to being machine washable, the brand has water-repellent styles, too, which make commuting to the office in the rain a lot more enjoyable.
Price range at time of publish: $59-$79
Size Range: 5-11 | Return Policy: Within 30 days of delivery | Shipping Policy: Free shipping over $99
Margaux
Margaux
Who It’s Good For
The brand features inclusive shoe sizing (with medium, narrow, and wide fits) as well as a mule style.
Who It’s Not Good For
These land on the pricier end of the spectrum and don't offer a vegan leather option.
One of the trickiest things about shopping for flats is finding one that fits really well, as size tends to vary across brands and styles. We turn to Margaux for its collection of size-inclusive flats, which range in sizes 3 through 14 and come in medium, narrow, and wide fits. In addition to the sizing, the brand makes an overall high-quality flat that boasts lots of style, comes in some gorgeous colors and patterns (including classics like black and brown, metallics, and leopard print), and are super comfortable. On top of that, Margaux also make a ballet flat mule that we are frankly obsessed with.
Price range at time of publish: $225-$245
Size Range: 3-14 in medium, narrow, and wide sizes | Return Policy: Within 30 days of purchase | Shipping Policy: Free shipping over $100
Related: The 17 Best Places to Buy Dresses of 2023
Free People
Free People
Who It’s Good For
Free People offers trendy ballet flat styles and you can often score some great sales.
Who It’s Not Good For
If the item isn't on sale, the retailer can be pretty pricey compared to some other retailers on this list.
As far as ballet flats are concerned, we turn to Free People for a collection of trendy styles from different brands, including Jeffrey Campbell (we are obsessed with the Aurora Flats, which look like real point shoes), as well as eye-catching designs from its own label, like the edgy Mystic Mary Jane Double-Strap Flats. Another reason to shop here is for the sales. Some of our best shoe sale finds come from the retailer (especially when it's 40 percent off the sale price).
Price range at time of publish: $50-$325
Size Range: US 6-11 | Return Policy: Within 30 days of purchase for full refund | Shipping Policy: Free shipping over $150
Loeffler Randall
Loeffler Randall
Who It’s Good For
Those shopping for more high-end ballet flats in fashion-forward and classic styles will fall in love with Loeffler Randall.
Who It’s Not Good For
This brand features some of the more expensive options on the list.
Loeffler Randall makes some of the most stunning designer shoes, and its collection of ballet flats always catches our eye. From classic leather flats to more trendy styles, the designer puts an elevated spin on the timeless shoe silhouette. If you’re looking for a pair of nude ballet flats, this is where you’ll find them. The brand’s Leonie Ballet Flat is available in an excellent range of nude tones that we simply adore.
Price range at time of publish: $250-$295
Size Range: 5-12 | Return Policy: Within 14 days from delivery | Shipping Policy: Free shipping in the U.S.
How to Pick the Right Ballet Flats
Size and Fit
“Don’t sleep on sizing when it comes to ballet flats,” says Danielle Cafiero, a wardrobe consultant and stylist. She recommends referencing a brand’s size chart to get a better understanding of fit, especially since sizes can vary across different brands and shoe styles. If you’re in doubt, product reviews can typically give you enough insight into whether or not a ballet flat runs small, large, or true to size. For what it's worth, Margaux's ballet flats are available in a very inclusive size range which also includes narrow and wide sizing.
Toe Box
In addition to fit, it’s important to pay extra attention to the toe box, as this can make or break comfort and support. “Make sure that the shoes have a wide enough space in the toe box,” Dr. Alissa Kuizinas, a board-certified podiatrist recommends. “A narrow toe box will restrict the natural movement of the foot and is more likely to cause discomfort and fatigue,” she explains. With this in mind, Cafiero recommends sizing up for pointed-toe ballet flat styles.
When researching the toe box, it helps to look at product reviews to see what customers say about fit and how comfortable the flats are in the toe area. Don’t be afraid to try on a few pairs (and take advantage of free returns and exchanges) to find the best and most comfortable ones.
Material
Most classic ballet flats come in a buttery soft leather (or faux leather) material; however, you can find them in velvet, fabric, and other materials like satin — as seen with Dolce Vita's Claira Ballet Flats. The construction is important because it can alter the look of a ballet flat, as some materials are more versatile than ever. That being said, the interior material is just as important as the exterior, since this can make or break comfort.
According to shoe designer Jamie Haller, you want a ballet flat that has a comfortable interior, especially around the back of the ankle. “When you wear ballet flats, you will likely be without socks, and I love the way soft leather feels lined in the slipper vs. a cotton lining,” she notes.
Comfort and Support
Ballet flats were designed for comfort, however, not all flats are created equal. When looking at places to shop for ballet flats, consider the types of support offered in shoe styles, especially in the ballet flat styles. “Look for a pair with a memory foam insole, arch support, or a thicker sole so it can withstand the wear and tear of constant walking while keeping you comfortable in the process,” says Tara West, a fashion stylist and on-air style expert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are ballet flats good for your feet?
“Ballet flats can be good for your feet, as long as they are flat, flexible, and have a wide enough toe box,” says Dr. Kuizinas. She explains that contrary to popular belief, a completely flat sole with enough flexibility to bend and twist can be the best option for food comfort and support, and by nature of design, many ballet flats fit these criteria.
Which ballet flats are a good investment?
The ballet flats that are most worth investing in are ones made from quality material, with durable construction and lasting comfort. Additionally, a pair of classic ballet slipper flats in a neutral color is more splurge-worthy because they will never go out of style and can be worn every day with virtually anything.
Should I size up or down in ballet flats?
If you’re having a hard time deciding what size to get — especially if the ballet flat you’re eyeing doesn’t come in half sizes — Dr. Kuizinas says to go with the smaller size. “Ballet flats need to fit well to your foot in order for them to stay on while you walk,” she explains, noting that the size of a ballet flat can vary depending on the brand and style. “You want to make sure you have enough room in the toe box but that the shoe fits well around your heel."
What are the most comfortable ballet flats for walking?
The most comfortable ballet flats for walking are ones that feature good arch support and cushioning, says Cafiero. “Look for styles that have a more spacious toe box and structured sides for additional support,” she explains. Additionally, Dr. Kuizinas says a comfortable ballet flat should have an ultra-flexible sole that can actually bend and twist. They should also be flat to the ground, which she notes is preferred for proper alignment.
Take Our Word for It
Jessie Quinn is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON, and more. When researching the best places to buy ballet flats, Jessie searched dozens of retailers, carefully considering versatility in styles and colors as well as the quality of construction, materials, and comfort features. Jessie also interviewed the following experts to learn more about the trend and what shoppers should look for when shopping for ballet flats:
John Smith, textile designer and stylist of Leather Skin Shop
Jamie Haller, shoe designer
Tara West, stylist and on-air expert
Danielle Cafiero, wardrobe stylist
Dr. Alissa Kuizinas, board-certified podiatrist
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