Ballet Flats Are Everywhere. Shop Our Fave Pairs For Summer

We know all too well how easy it is to fall into a rut of sandals and sneakers when summer hits. But when the occasion calls for something a little dressier, ballet flats are the perfect blend of versatility, style and comfort. (Next-gen insoles are now found in many flats for extra cushioning.)

If you've experienced early-aughts fashion first-hand, the words "ballet flats" probably bring back memories of sweaty, smelly feet. The good news? It's now totally acceptable—encouraged, even—to wear cute socks with flats.

The most coveted ballet flats of the season feature unexpected details—like mesh, studs and buckles—alongside modern silhouettes with sculptural square toes. Scroll to shop our go-to summer styles.

The best ballet flats for 2024

Poppy Barley The Modern-Day Mary Jane, $275

Want to skip the break-in period? These flats feel like slippers right out of the box. They’re crafted from buttery soft leather and feature cushiony memory foam insoles for all-day comfort.

We put them to the test on tiled floors and cobblestone streets and found that the leather soles provided plenty of grip on both surfaces.

Maguire Aveiro Studded Ballet Flats, $230

If the ballet silhouette feels too dainty, we've got just the thing. This pair by Montreal brand Maguire is made from leather and dotted with metal studs for an edgier look.

Simons Pointed-Toe Slingback Shoes, $110

Adorned with delicate straps, these leather slingbacks are the perfect pick for a polished take on the ballet flat. The pointed toe looks incredibly chic peeking out of a wide-leg tailored trouser.

Vivaia Square-Toe Mary Janes, $137

Ballet flats can get pretty stinky. This square-toed style is made from recycled plastic and can be thrown in the washing machine when needed.

Choose from 15 colours and patterns, from sky blue (above) to emerald green to leopard print.

Reformation Melissa Mary Jane Flats, $388

You can’t go wrong with leopard print, especially when it comes in the form of a sleek shoe. This square-toed design is guaranteed to add a touch of whimsy to your summer ’fits.

Pro tip: This pattern looks great with black, but pair it with red to make a bold statement.

Everlane The Day Mary Janes, $223

The addition of an elastic strap adds visual interest to this minimalist pair of flats, plus it ensures that they stay in place when you walk. The leather is soft and pliable, so it molds to the shape of your feet quickly to minimize the break-in period.

Steve Madden Dreaming Mesh Ballet Flats, $130

Mesh ballet flats are trending for summer, and we love this versatile pair. The breezy, see-through style can lean a little casual—embrace the off-duty look with denim shorts and a white tee, or pair with a pair of tailored bermudas to elevate the look.

Aldo Clementinne Slingback Ballet Flats, $80

If the full-on mesh look is not for you, try this more subtle take on the trend. The closed toe and block heel give these ballerina-inspired pumps a more sophisticated vibe.

This style features Aldo’s super comfy cushioned insoles for added support and comfort.

Rothy’s The Square Wrap Flats, $185

Removable wrap-around ribbons give this style a classic ballet feel, while the square toe adds a modern touch. It’s made from recycled materials and machine washable.

Intentionally Blank Tied With A Bow Ballet Flats, $154

Lean into the balletcore aesthetic with a pair of almond-toe flats topped with a bow. They’re made from soft pebbled leather and have memory foam insoles.

H&M Leather Ballet Flats, $85

These slip-ons are made from genuine leather and are a great way to try out the metallic-shoe trend. They're topped with a small bow, a nod to the iconic ballet flats of the early aughts.