Forget Ballet Flats; this is the flat shoe trend that everyone will be pairing with stylish jeans this fall.
While ballet flats have gained significant popularity this year, classic ballerinas may be (albeit slightly) declining as we transition into fall. Flat shoes are increasingly replacing heels, a trend expected to persist with the emergence of more stylish flat shoe designs. A prime example is the latest must-have flats: Derby shoes, the lace-up flats poised to surpass ballerinas in popularity for fall 2026. Not as formal as loafers or oxfords, yet more refined than typical ballet flats, derby shoes represent an unexpected new choice that's perfect for adding a touch of everyday elegance.
These shoes made their debut nearly a year ago on the Celine resort 2026 runway, where Creative Director Michael Rider showcased models donning a slim-soled, glove-like version in black, white, and vibrant cherry-red. Styled alongside flowing trousers and shift dresses, each look featured ankle socks for added dimension. Fast-forward to today, and chic derby-shoe styles are emerging everywhere, with brands like Margaux, J.Crew, and Zara offering affordable options.
The trend is not only infiltrating the market but is also visible on the streets. As you explore the best derby flats for your own wardrobe, I've compiled an outfit guide to help you style these shoes, ensuring you're ready to showcase ideas when they arrive. I anticipate seeing fashion enthusiasts pairing them with straight-leg jeans as well as various stylish trousers, from slim cigarette pants to wide barrel shapes. Ahead, discover how to wear derby shoes this fall, and then shop for pieces to recreate these looks—if you want to be ahead of the trend.
**How to Style Derby Shoes**
Style Notes: Since the debut of derby shoes on his resort 2026 runway, Michael Rider has released three collections that consistently feature the lace-up flats styled in increasingly inventive ways. However, on the fall 2026 runway, they were paired with slim cigarette trousers and a fringed knit sweater, creating an instantly fresh outfit.
*Shop the outfit:*
- Lisa Yang: Bon Cashmere Fringe Cardigan
- rag & bone: Irina Ankle Cigarette Pants
- Celine: Ballet Lace-Up Shoes
Style Notes: Attendees at Celine's Paris Fashion Week showcased the derby shoe look in real life. On the streets, these shoes were styled with preppy essentials like khakis, denim shirts, and leather belts to add a touch of cool sophistication.
*Shop the outfit:*
- NILI LOTAN: Travis Denim Shirt
- Celine: Disc Buckle 18mm Belt
- COS: Pleated Wool-Blend Culottes
- Celine: Ballet Lace-Up Shoes
- Aritzia: Daily Rib Ankle Sock 3-Pack
Style Notes: Given that fashion enthusiasts enjoy pairing classic denim with ballet flats, this is an ideal example of an outfit combination I expect to see frequently this fall with derby shoes: a sleek leather jacket, contrasting layers, straight-leg jeans, and derby shoes.
*Shop the outfit:*
- MANGO: Faux Leather Jacket
- Cos: Merino Wool Turtleneck Top
- AGOLDE: 90s Pinch Waist High Rise Straight Jeans
- J.Crew: Verona Lace-Up Flats in Eel-Embossed Leather
Style Notes: While black trousers are a year-round essential, summer calls for a lighter, slightly cropped version. When styled with white derby shoes, they lose the heaviness that full-length trousers and boots can create, offering a refined yet more suitable look for the season. Pairing it with a blazer results in an outfit that’s polished yet breezy enough for warmer days.
*Shop the outfit:*
- LOULOU DE SAISON: Donau Double-Breasted Wool Blazer
- Khaite: Roma Rounded Virgin Wool Crop Pants
Style Notes: For a more laid-back feel, pairing baggy white jeans with derby shoes balances the shoe's preppy vibe. I envision fashionistas in cities like NYC and L.A. adopting this relaxed style in their derby shoe outfits.
*Shop the outfit:*
- Saint Sirene: The Girlfriend
- ZARA: Zw Collection Mid-Rise Baggy Jeans
- ZARA: Leather Lace-Up Loafers
Style Notes: With Celine being the creator of the trend, the brand's campaign styling serves as a strong reference for wearing these shoes. Here, a model is seen in barrel-leg trousers with a leather bomber jacket and matching ankle socks, reflecting the designer's modern prep aesthetic with an '80s flair.
*Shop the outfit:*
- FRAME: + Sotheby's Cotton-Twill Jacket
- ST. AGNI: Tailored Barrel Pants
- COS: Contrast-Tipped Silk Scarf
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