Ballet Flats? All of a sudden, every fashionable girl is embracing this jazz-influenced footwear trend instead.
Jazz shoes have officially been added to the lineup of colorful ballet flats, beaded sandals, and ballet sneakers as a key footwear trend for the season. While they resemble traditional oxfords, these stylish flats—also referred to as derby shoes—are characterized by their thinner soles and softer, more flexible leather. The revival of this style was first highlighted on the runway during Michael Rider's debut resort 2026 collection for Celine. Rider reinforced the trend in the S/S 26 show, pairing these shoes with outfits ranging from tailored looks to miniskirts. Since then, jazz shoes have gained considerable popularity, even making it onto Lyst's Hottest Products list. Fashion-forward celebrities have also quickly embraced this shoe trend. Recently, in London, Gracie Abrams sported a black pair alongside a white graphic tee, white drawstring pants, a black Chanel Maxi Flap Bag, and a Boston Red Sox cap. Other prominent admirers include Charlize Theron and Tracee Ellis Ross, who have both been seen wearing the understated flats in the past few weeks. Whether paired with a lovely maxi dress, classic denim, or relaxed trousers, jazz shoes offer an effortlessly refined finish that embodies the current trend for sophisticated yet comfortable dressing. If you're feeling inspired, I’ve compiled a selection of the best jazz and derby shoes available right now.
(Image credit: Backgrid) On Gracie Abrams: Celine Ballet Lace Up Shoes ($970); Chanel BagShop Jazz Shoes
ZARA
Leather Lace-Up Loafers
CELINE
Ballet Lace-Up Shoe in Lambskin
PROENZA SCHOULER
Glove Leather Brogues
Proenza Schouler
Glove Lace-Up Flats
JAMIE HALLER
The Jazz Slipper Leather Brogues
CELINE
Ballet Lace-Up Shoe in Lambskin
Lanvin
Lace-Up Oxford Shoes
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Ballet Flats? All of a sudden, every fashionable girl is embracing this jazz-influenced footwear trend instead.
Ballet flats are becoming less popular.
