As adorable as they are, I'm feeling a bit tired of ballet flats—here are 6 stylish and comfortable alternatives I'm considering.

      I am on a mission to discover stylish alternatives to ballet flats. While I adore the classic style—my affection was solidified when I first laid eyes on Miu Miu's satin version in their autumn/winter 2022 collection—they aren't the most practical. The pairs I've owned haven't been able to endure high step counts. Although their popularity has fluctuated throughout the 21st century, ballet flats have consistently been a favorite among fashionable individuals across Europe. From Alexa Chung and Sienna Miller to numerous French women, the allure is straightforward—ballet flats are dainty and refined, adding a timeless sophistication to even the simplest outfits. However, anyone who experienced the initial wave of ballet flats in the early 2000s can confirm that, despite their ability to lend an elegant touch to your look, they lack durability.

      It's well-known that these shoes do not provide the essential foot support and cushioning needed for long wear. Nevertheless, their graceful silhouette and variety of styles—such as Alaïa’s mesh flats, Ganni’s trendy buckle version, and Tory Burch’s studded leather pairs—ensure their continued appeal, causing us to revisit this classic shape despite the potential foot issues. I understand this struggle well. Not one for trainers, ballet flats have become a key component of my daily wardrobe. They will always be dear to me, and I currently have my eye on a lovely dusty-pink, square-toe pair from & Other Stories. However, as I confront their lack of durability, I’m exploring other elegant and comfortable flat-shoe options that can replace ballet flats.

      As a result, I’ve come across a range of practical substitutes that are both chic and easy to wear. Best of all, these styles maintain the core characteristics of ballet flats: soft in shape, slip-on, grounded, and modest in design—allowing them to seamlessly fit into your current collection. From Mary Janes seen all over Paris to suede loafers favored by London fashionistas, continue reading for six excellent alternatives to ballet flats.

      **6 Chic Alternatives to Ballet Flats**

      1. **Mary Janes**

       **Style Notes:** Mary Janes are the footwear most similar to ballet flats (almost identical, except for the added strap across the foot), so it’s fitting to start with them. This simple strap is essential for achieving a different silhouette. Not only is it featured on some of this decade's most coveted shoes, but it also adds an element of sophistication to your outfit.

       **Shop Mary Janes:**

       - AEYDE: Uma Suede-Trimmed Satin Mary Jane Ballet Flats. Aeyde shoes are highly recommended by editors, and this satin-finish pair, in particular, is a favorite of the Who What Wear UK team.

       - H&M: Mary Jane Ballet Pumps. This H&M pair appears far more luxurious than its price tag suggests.

       - VIBI VENEZIA: Corduroy Mary Jane Flats. Corduroy is a fun material for spring.

      

       **What to Wear With Mary Janes:**

       - M&S Collection: Faux Leather Relaxed Fit Jacket. Hailey Bieber exemplifies how well leather workwear-style jackets pair with black Mary Janes.

       - Reiss: Haisley Tailored Pencil Skirt.

      2. **Flip-Flops**

       **Style Notes:** Materials like denim and wool can sometimes seem contrary to ballet flats, which makes outfits like Monikh Dale’s (shown above) ideal candidates for alternative ballet flats. Suede flip-flops introduce an unexpected contrast that enhances the textures and sturdiness of the outfit’s other materials. While you might not consider them perfect for all-day comfort, during summer when your feet are blistered from leather flats, you’ll yearn for the breezy relief of flip-flops (even if you can only wear them until lunchtime).

      

       **Shop Flip-Flops:**

       - Reformation: Jessie Thong Sandal.

       - THE ROW: Ginza Two-Tone Leather and Suede Platform Flip Flops.

       - A.EMERY: Kinto Textured-Leather Flip Flops in Royal Blue. A stylish way to add a pop of blue.

      

       **What to Wear With Flip-Flops:**

       - Mint Velvet: Indigo Denim Cropped Jacket. This jacket has an almost Victorian shape, aligning with the biggest blouse trends for 2025.

       - & Other Stories: Wide Tailored Trousers.

      3. **Slipper Mules**

       **Style Notes:** You can always rely on French women for outfit ideas. Parisian inspiration Sylvie Mus showcases how slippers can provide a similar effect to ballet flats (as depicted above), making them an ideal option for more casual ensembles. The open heel adds length to your legs, which is a helpful styling tip for petite individuals.

      

       **Shop