In high school, you could not convince me that my Urban Outfitters ballet flats were not the coolest shoes. I would wear them every day and quite literally wore them into the ground. I think they had zero soles by the time I was done with them. That was over 10 years ago, so I can’t say I am surprised that this shoe silhouette is returning to taunt us millennials and gen Xers. Almost everything in fashion eventually makes its way back (except really low-rise jeans–PLEASE don’t bring those back!) and this year no one can deny that the ballet flat is having a resurgence. To be honest, I am not complaining. I love an easy-to-slip-on shoe, and there is something inherently youthful about ballet flats that I find endearing. Maybe the youthfulness stems from the fact that they offer zero support so you’d have to be young and reckless to wear them for an extended period of time. In any case, I think the ballet flat is going to be HUGE this spring/summer so I decided to do some digging around to see how they might be styled in 2023:
The first look on the left consists of baggy straight-leg jeans, a white T-shirt, simple black ballet flats, and a trench coat to top it off. I love the relaxed vibe and can see myself wearing this to run errands, walk my dog, or even WFH.
Next up, the middle outfit is a bit more involved but would undoubtedly grant you the title of ‘Coolest In The Office’. The simple trousers and button-up are instantly elevated by the socks and ballet flat combo. And yes, in 2023 we are apparently pairing ankle socks with ballet flats and I am not complaining, but I can only assume that to make this work you would have to size up (flats famously need to be pretty snug so they don’t slip off).
Let’s move on to look #3. The ultra-feminine silk midi skirt paired with neutral ballet flats gives an off-duty ballerina vibe that’s both sophisticated and laid back. I am a big fan of how easy it would be to throw together this outfit. All you would need is a midi skirt, a long sleeve sweater or cardigan, and a pair of ballet flats. Bonus points for the sunglasses. It’s simple yet very pulled together and elegant.
I love an unfussy outfit and this maxi dress look meets that criterion. This is what I’d call “Gen Z meets Coastal Grandmother“. I love the double stripes in different colors and the silver flats give an added flair that’s cool and unexpected. Last but not least, I had to include another sock and ballet flat combo because it’s too good and very 2023. I really like the short skirt paired with scrunched-up socks and matching pink flats. This look is Sporty-meets-Baby-Spice and I am here for it.
If you are into this new/old trend, here are some picks we really love:
1. Anya Scrunchie Ballet Flats | 2. Leather Ballet Flat | 3. Alohas Sway Flats | 4. Zoe Ballet Flats | 5. Arissa Metallic Leather Flat | 6. The Italian Leather Day Glove | 7. ALOHAS Sway Ballet Flat | 8. Paola Ballet Flat | 9. Aurora Flats | 10. Ballet Flats | 11. Bow Leather Ballerina | 12. Corinna Ballet Flats
So, what say you? Will ballet flats be in your wardrobe rotation this year or are you opting out of this one? Sound off in the comments and have a lovely Saturday. xx
THIS POST WAS ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED HERE.
