The Row's Viral Ballet Flats Make an Ideal Party Shoe—13 Similarly Elegant Choices

      The halls are adorned, mulled wine is abundant, and as unpleasant as it may sound, the sun sets at 4 PM. This can only indicate one thing: we are firmly entrenched in the party season. For some, the holiday season is the most delightful time of year, while for others, the garish tinsel and jingly music of this time can be quite off-putting. Regardless of your feelings towards these traditional expressions of joy, one thing is certain — winter is not a season for wearing heels. With your schedule packed with numerous parties, it can be tempting to seize the opportunity for wearing your towering heels and showcase all those stilettos, kitten heels, Mary Janes, and mock croc pumps that have been longing for an outing. However, in my view, the sleet, snow, and heavy rain that accompany December are not worth risking these elegant options, and there are certainly far superior alternatives that are just as stylish and significantly more comfortable. Introducing: the finest ballet flat party shoes.

      Ballet flats are seldom associated with glamorous little black dresses or elegant maxis, but after observing the rising trend among fashion insiders sporting them this year, I’m here to advocate for your lovely satin pairs or those adorned with bows. This trend began when I noticed many fashion-forward individuals choosing a specific style — The Row’s Velvet ballet flats.

      There’s truly nothing the Olsen Twins can’t persuade me to try, and having seen how beautifully this sumptuous style completes various fashionable outfits, I realized that the dominant party fashion trend would be to swap heels for these comfortably chic shoes. The luxury brand’s version features lush velvet and a grosgrain ribbon trim that creates a cinched appearance when worn, evoking the attire of Clara Stahlbaum from The Nutcracker. (Talk about embodying Sugar Plum Fairy elegance.) Indeed, these opulent designs still make a striking statement compared to their higher counterparts, while also ensuring you won't risk an ankle injury or suffer discomfort after hours on the dance floor. These shoes are already going viral online, and after exploring the designer collections as well as upscale high-street brands, I’ve found several alternatives that are equally refined.

      From Gucci’s sequined version to a metallic option from Reformation that has already garnered praise from influencers like Devon Lee Carlson, below are some of the best ballet flat party shoes you’ll find.

      Shop the 13 Best Ballet Flat Party Shoes:

      The Row

      Round Ballet Flat in Taupe Velvet

      Metallics are inherently suitable for the holiday season, but The Row offers this shade in a way that feels fresh and original. This pair also features an adjustable tie to customize the fit.

      The Row

      Round Ballet Flat in Black Velvet

      The textured black is perfect for late-night gatherings, offering a chance to escape into the shadows while your party dress billows behind you like Cinderella at midnight.

      Gucci

      Women’s Gg Crystal Gucci Horsebit Ballet Flat

      A true evolution of the Gucci sequin slingback, this frost-kissed pair transforms a classic introduced by former creative director Sabato De Sarno in Gucci's 2025 Resort show, giving it a festive twist with a scattering of stones over the jacquard fabric.

      Le Monde Béryl

      Mica Flat in Smoke Mesh Crystals

      The ashy tone is incredibly suitable for evenings out, and this crystal-adorned style enhances the sultry smokey hue. Pair it with a strapless dress and long coat for added flair.

      Dear Frances

      Balla Crystals Flats

      London-based brand Dear Frances is renowned for its use of mesh. Crafted from a sumptuous Italian fabric, these nearly-naked flats are incredibly polished and reflect the modern equivalent of a Disney princess slipper.

      Sandro

      Glitter Ballet Flats

      Coco Chanel’s two-toned slingbacks from 1957 might have pioneered the two-toned cap in women's footwear, but it has since remained a staple in French fashion.

      H&M

      Rhinestone-Embellished Ballet Flats

      At a more budget-friendly price, H&M's square-toe flats offer a sense of occasion without breaking the bank.

      MANOLO BLAHNIK

      Hangisi Crystal-Embellished Satin Point-Toe Flats

      Manolo Blahnik's Hangisi design is one of the most iconic silhouettes of the 21st Century. Inspired by a square buckle worn by Josephine Bonaparte, this style exudes European elegance with a contemporary twist.

      Reformation

      Suzanne Ballet Flat

      VALENTINO GARAVANI

      Reinette Bow-Embellished Velvet-Trimmed Satin Mules

      A bow can solve many problems, and this flat from Valentino, in a charming baby blue with a fringe tassel, embodies that sentiment.

      Charles & Keith

      Sequinned Crossover Mary Jane Flats

      Capture the festive spirit of the season with this striking garnet style featuring crossover velvet straps.

      Studded Ballet in Black, Size 10

      Tory Burch is