Ballet flats seem quite outdated compared to these 7 emerging trends in flat shoes.
I hate to mention it, but ballet flats may be losing some of their popularity. The keyword here is "may"! While this classic and timeless shoe will always retain its charm, it has held the title of the go-to flat shoe throughout the year. However, as we approach fall 2025, it appears that this top position is beginning to wane. This doesn’t mean you should consider them "finished"; rather, take a moment to explore several newer flat-shoe trends that are already competing to take their place and will significantly influence stylish fall outfits.
As for what’s on the horizon, the trendiest flats right now include preppy boat shoes, luxurious suede loafers, and elegant calf-hair finishes. Hybrid flats, like the trendy "sneakerinas," are also generating quite a buzz at present. Overall, there are simply too many innovative flat-shoe styles emerging to still consider traditional ballerinas as the standard. So, let’s delve into seven flat-shoe trends poised to claim their spot.
Boat Shoes
Boat shoes are making a transition into fall and are already among the top choices for flat footwear this season. Current styles in suede and leather with rich tones like carob, chestnut, and deep black are adding a sophisticated, even preppy vibe to fall and pre-fall ensembles.
BALLY
Pathy Leather Boat Shoes
Aritzia x Sperry
Slim Boat Shoes
Clogs
I can’t set the rules, but clogs are making a comeback. We’re not talking about the chunky wooden types but rather low-profile suede mules designed for minimalists. The Row's Hugo Mules are certainly the gold standard, but with celebrity-favored alternatives like the Ugg Elea Slippers—at just $125—this trend is sure to catch on.
A.Emery
Louis Suede Clogs
Jeffrey Campbell
Content Clog
Birkenstock
Boston Soft Footbed Clogs
Lace-Up Flats
The Chloé influence is strong once again. After showcasing a pair of flats featuring ballet-like lace-up details on its runway, this style has begun to subtly infiltrate the market and is now one of the most desirable flat shoe options for fall.
GANNI
Lace-Up Embellished Recycled Leather Ballet Flats
ZARA
Leather Topstitched Ballet Flats
J.Crew
Andi Lace-Up Ballet Flats in Leather
Steve Madden
Pointe Ballet Flat
Suede Loafers
What could possibly look more upscale than a great pair of loafers? A fabulous pair of suede loafers. Like all other styles this season, loafers are also receiving a suede upgrade, which imparts an even more luxurious appearance and feel to these already polished shoes. Plus, you won’t have to worry about breaking them in.
ZARA
Stitched Split Suede Loafers
G.H.BASS
Whitney Genuine Calf Hair Penny Loafer
Pony Hair Finishes
Calf-hair finishes remain in vogue, and if you’re shopping for a pair of classic ballet flats, you might consider opting for this exotic texture to elevate these timeless shoes.
ALAÏA
Criss Cross Patent-Leather Trimmed Leopard-Print Calf Hair Ballet Flats
KHAITE
Charlotte Calf Hair Ballet Flats
Steve Madden
Pipa Ballet Flat
LOULOU DE SAISON
Leone Calf Hair Flats
MANGO
Leopard Print Genuine Calf Hair Ballerina Flat
Sneakerinas
This year is all about hybrid sneakers. Sneakerinas are popping up everywhere, combining the comfort and practicality of sporty sneakers with the charming aesthetics of ballet flats.
ZARA
Satin Effect Stitched Ballet Flats
VIVAIA
Square-Toe Lace-Up Satin Sneakerina
Steve Madden
Scooter Sneaker
Derby Shoes
If you’re curious about which shoes the trendsetters will be rocking before anyone else, look no further than the sleek derby shoes that debuted on the Celine Spring 2026 runway. Merging the elegance of oxfords with the comfort of ballerinas, these are on track to emerge as the next significant flat-shoe trend. Mark my words.
Kenneth Cole
Justice Square Toe Oxford
LEMAIRE
Souris Leather Brogues
Linea Paolo
Mirna Oxford Flat
Andrea Gomez
Antonia Clear Mesh Flat
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Ballet flats seem quite outdated compared to these 7 emerging trends in flat shoes.
It needed to be said!
