Ballet flats, mary-janes and girly flats are a staple part of my wardrobe, and with designers featuring them in countless runway shows across the S/S and A/W 24 collections, it’s a trend that is set to be around for a while. From delicate bows to mesh flats, there’s a wide array of choices when it comes to finding ones that will fit into your wardrobe, and complement your personal style.
Buying into trends, particularly from fast-fashion companies, isn’t a sustainable way to keep our world happy and healthy, and so every decision to shop secondhand, and make use of all the beautiful fashion that already exists, is a great step in the right direction. This edit of ballet flats has been sourced entirely from Depop, comprised of gorgeous pre-loved pieces. As always, with sustainability at the forefront of every fashion decision, if this style doesn’t call out your name, or fit seamlessly into your wardrobe, maybe skip this trend for now and work on finding your own personal style instead.
1. Classic black leather ballet flats // 2. Cream mesh ballet flats // 3. Brown Tabi style ballet flats // 4. Ballet pink satin slippers // 5. Black crocodile leather slingbacks // 6. Colourful houndstooth ballet flats // 7. Black mesh ballet flats // 8. Gold satin ballet slippers // 9. Red Tabi style ballet flats // 10. Black velvet ballet flats
I loved making this edit and envisioning all of the fun outfits I could accessorise with these shoes. From the staple black leather flats, with the traditional bow knot and low block heel, to fun Tabi-style shoes, for the more experimental dresser, there truly is a ballet flat for every style.
For a classic look, using pieces that you probably have in your wardrobe, pair one of the black pairs, I’m leaning towards the sheer pair, with a classic pair of medium-wash denim jeans, and a crisp white blouse. This timeless look, paired with a neck scarf and oversized sunnies, never goes out of style. Parisian chic can be an illusive style to get right, without bordering on mockery, but jeans, a blouse, and a pair of classic black flats is a sure-fire way to look classy and stylish, no matter the season.
For a more maximalist look, which I’d personally style, pair the colourful velvet houndstooth pair with an outfit that draws out the colours of the shoes. As we move into springtime I’d probably style these with my favourite pair of dungarees, a white puff sleeve top, and a funky patterned cardigan with splashes of green, blue and pink. Drawing out the tones of the shoe, and having fun with equally colourful pieces in your wardrobe, is one of the greatest ways to find a fresh new outfit; I gave more tips for doing this in my Sustainable Edit on the Portuguese girl aesthetic.
Styling up the satin slippers, such as this pink pair and this golden pair, feels a lot more reminiscent of wearing an actual ballet outfit, which I absolutely love. These would work for both casual outfits, styled with a delicate summer dress and coordinating colour cardigan or lace shrug, or for a more dressed-up affair, if you’re not comfortable wearing heels. There’s no denying the Miu Miu influence on these ever so delicate satin slippers, so pair with a silky maxi skirt and sheer top for a true on-brand look.
Love Chloe x
* All imagery belongs to the original owners, and has only been used for collage purposes. I am not affiliated with any of the individual sellers.
