The Trend of Chanel-Inspired Flats That Appears Sophisticated, Luxurious, and Effortlessly Chic
(Image credit: Backgrid) While we cherish our classic leather ballet flats (and won't be parting with them anytime soon), there's a new trend emerging. It’s unfortunate to admit, but this trend is now more favored, sophisticated, and luxurious-looking than any other flat. We're referring to patent-leather ballet flats, a style we’ve been observing since last year and can now confidently say is set to dominate in 2025.
Our interest in this trend piqued when Chanel launched its viral patent-leather moccasins, which quickly flooded our Instagram feeds with their shiny appearance and glove-like, rounded design. We suspected this style would gain traction, and with fashion enthusiasts and celebrities sidelining their classic leather options, it has officially transitioned from a fleeting moment to a significant movement. Ahead, you’ll find patent-coated ballet flats showcased on the Chanel runway, worn by Alexa Chung, and styled by various fashion influencers—plus, shop our top picks of chic pairs.
(Image credit: Backgrid) The moment we saw Chung swap out her reliable ballet flats for this more sophisticated alternative, we recognized it as a trend worth following. Her effortlessly styled look featuring raw-edge jeans and a '90s leather jacket demonstrates how these shoes can elevate even the simplest outfits.
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight) Chanel introduced its patent flats during the Resort 2025 collection runway show, where they were paired with ensembles ranging from tweed blazer dresses to denim Bermuda shorts. Almost immediately, the patent moccasins became an internet sensation. New York content creator Christie Tyler paired them with contrasting socks and tailored trousers for a refined touch.
Annabel Rosendahl shows us that the high-shine of patent flats can transform light-wash jeans into something quite elegant. Although black is currently the dominant color, shades of red also provide a vibrant pop, particularly when matched with similar-toned socks, as Emili Sindlev demonstrates. There’s something undeniably luxurious about a pair of burgundy patent ballet flats.
Shop the best patent-leather ballet flats:
Chanel
Patent-Leather Moccasins
The style that started it all.
Tory Burch
Violet T-Strap Flat
Fashion lovers tend to pair this with white socks peeking out.
The loveliest $25 you'll spend this season.
ALAÏA
Criss Cross Patent-Leather Ballet Flats
If you have good taste, they should be on your wish list.
Le Monde Béryl
Stella Patent Leather Mary Jane Flat
No one does French-girl flats as well as Le Monde Béryl.
Vagabond Shoemakers
Delia Mary Jane Flat
Vagabond crafts the most comfortable footwear.
Christian Louboutin x Maison Margiela
Marlougiela
Maison Margiela and Christian Louboutin's partnership is already iconic for the year.
These popular flats seldom stay in stock.
ZARA
Patent Effect Ballet Flats
Roger Vivier
Belle Vivier Two-Tone Patent-Leather Ballet Flats
This two-tone version embodies elegance.
Madewell
The Elsie Mary Jane Flat
The pointed toe adds even more sophistication.
Stuart Weitzman
Clem Patent-Leather Mary-Jane Ballet Flats
I'm completely smitten with these.
Chloé
Marcie Mary Jane Flat
aeyde
Uma Mary Jane Ballet Flat
Open Edit
Oriana Pointed Toe Mary Jane Flat
Schutz
Paola Slingback Pointed Toe Ballet Flat
Alaïa
Jewel Patent Leather Ballet Flats
Stuart Weitzman
Loralei Mary Jane
On sale and fully stocked? A fashion miracle indeed.
GANNI
Buckled Eyelet-Embellished Recycled Faux Patent-Leather Ballet Flats
Dear Frances
Mary Jane Flat
This silhouette is perfect to me.
KHAITE
Sybil Patent-Leather Mary Jane Pumps
These have significant It-shoe potential.
Mansur Gavriel
Square Toe Mary Jane Flat
Loro Piana
Primula Printed Patent Leather Ballerina Flats
Loro Piana nailed it with this tortoiseshell design.
Amina Muaddi
Ane Patent Leather Slingback Flats
This style feels particularly fresh.
ALOHAS
Rosalind Ballet Flats
If you dislike compliments, just keep moving.
Frances Valentine
Midge Flat
This metallic detail deserves to be appreciated from all angles.
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN
Pilouta Jane Spike Studded Patent-Leather Ballet Flats
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