Ballet Flats Of All Kinds

Here we go again, and let me say I’m so bloody glad. Ballet flats were kind of always my thing about 15 years ago and I can safely say I’ve bought and tried most well-known brands to say I’m somewhat of a connoisseur.

I used to buy mine from an actual dance shoe maker in Randwick called Salvio’s, and they were truly the best. You could pick the colour, style of fabric and trimmings and he’d make them from his workshop within a week. The soles would inevitably get a hole in them after a few months but I didn’t care, I loved the extra flat sole, the moulded leather and the perfect round shoe shape they offered. I still veer towards this style today, but perhaps with a little more support…

If you’re like me and prefer a traditional ballet-style with a moulded silhouette, brands like Repetto, Porselli and French Sole are definitely for you. They’re soft and effortlessly cool, but I find they need an extra bit of TLC to make them last. Also, these brands are pretty tight against the toe so more often than not you need to size up. I love these for a classic and chic option.

For a more modern take on a ballet flat, Everlane, Mansur Gavriel, Arket and Loeffler Randall have all embraced the fuller-toe style which gives the opposite effect of toe-cleavage, but still somehow works. A great option for work and also to wear with thin ribbed socks as the weather cools.

You’ll also find a selection of square-toe, pointy-toe, satin, Mary-Jane, and slingback variations this winter which all have a place in your wardrobe depending on your mood. I personally love the Mary Jane styles from Le Monde Beryl and Vibi Venezia, but I guarantee your favourite chain stores will all do more affordable versions soon.

Which brings me to my last point. Ballet flats aren’t something you need to splurge on if you can’t. I would say by just looking at this gallery, you can see that high-end and affordable versions all look pretty similar and serve the exact same purpose. I’m super impressed with Wittner and Country Road’s versions this season, and I know the likes of Mango and Zara also provide really top notch styles at such affordable price points. As always, you do you!