The 16 Best Pairs of Ballet Flats to Complete Your Balletcore Aesthetic This Spring—Starting at $15

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I remember going to ballet lessons with my sister when we were wee little girls. Though practicing grand jetés, pliés and sautés personally did not appeal to me, the one thing I always loved about heading to dance class was getting dolled up. The leotards, skirts, tutus, tights and ballet flats; the flowers, bows, ribbons, ruffles and tulle. What more could a five-year-old gal want when Barbie in the Nutcracker and Angelina Ballerina were her main fashion inspos at the time?

Balletcore is ones of the latest aesthetics to join the ranks of Barbiecore, tenniscore, regencycore and cottagecore, to name a few. But, unlike the balletcore from your childhood, this reboot involves much more than pink, pink and more pink. So many have put their own twist on balletcore. There’s the traditional, super feminine, poofy, flowy take on the trend, but there’s now also an edgier slant that incorporates striking whites and blacks, as well as pop-punk and gothic elements. You could also go for more of an athleisure balletcore approach that might look like a cozy wrap sweater, leggings and leg warmers.

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You can inject your sartorial flair into any “core” aesthetic, which is why we’ve set out to find the most stylish ballet flats on the market. From Zara to Miu Miu, leather to suede, neutrals to metallics and embellishments to buckles, you’re sure to find a pair of ballet shoes to twirl in this spring and beyond. And in case you thought this trending aesthetic was going to cost you an arm and a leg, we’ve included plenty of more affordable options, too.

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Zara Soft Leather Ballet Flats

When you want a bit more twinkle on your toes, go with a metallic pair that will grab everyone’s attention. These shiny ballet flats from Zara have super comfortable soles so you can wear them all day, sans blisters and aches.

Miu Miu Patent-Finish Ballerina Shoes

Miu Miu has been paving the way for the return of ballet flats. This pair features mismatching tie-up ribbons and double buckle straps that make these shoes perfect for an edgier take on balletcore. You can also shop them in black. 

Vagabond Jolin Flats

Speaking from personal experience, Vagabond’s new Jolin Flats are super comfy and light to walk in. The leather from Portugal is oh-so-smooth, and I can tell these shoes are going to last me for years to come. I have a little extra space at the toes, but the elastic strap helps them fit just right (plus, there’s room to wear socks!). Pick from black or off-white leather versions and sizes 35 through 42. Though it’s still quite chilly out, I’m already trying to plan ways to incorporate these shoes into my everyday spring outfits.

Charles & Keith Tie-Around Canvas Ballerina Flats

I’ve been on the hunt for ballet flats that feature ties that I can wrap around my ankles, and I think I’ve finally found my match. These canvas ballet flats from Charles & Keith are stunning! The black-and-white contrast is striking, and you’ve got to love a good square toe.

Steve Madden Blossoms Rhinestone Ballet Flats

Put some razzle-dazzle on your feet with these sparkly ballet flats from Steve Madden. Their mesh material and rhinestones make them unlike any pair you already own.

Amazon Essentials Belice Ballet Flat

There’s a reason why this pair from Amazon Essentials is No. 1 in its category. It comes in 32 different colors and patterns, including bright pops of color, metallics, animal prints and neutrals. These flats’ simple shape and design make them versatile enough to wear with just about anything. Plus, their below-$15 price tag is hard to resist.

J.Crew Zoe Ballet Flats 

Check out J.Crew’s Zoe Ballet Flats for a simple, timeless silhouette. They come in seven colors with both leather and suede options. This pair also happens to be on sale, with the metallic gold colorway costing just $75 right now.

Guilhermina Ballet Mules

These ballet mules take glam to another level. The big, bejeweled bows and square toes elevate them so much that you’d think they’re designer and cost hundreds of dollars. Luckily, they’ll ring you up for under $100 at Anthropologie.

J.Crew Zoe Ballet Mules 

J.Crew also carries the Zoe Ballet Mules, in case you’re the type of person who doesn’t like wasting time slipping their shoes on and rushing out the door. They also give your feet more breathing room, which is ideal when it’s hot out.

Gucci Quilted Leather Ballet Flats

It’s hard to resist anything from Gucci, and these flats are no exception. The designer logo stitched into their leather material makes them look extra chic.

Jimmy Choo Ade Suede Embellished Ballerina Flats

If you mix pearlcore and balletcore, these Jimmy Choo ballet flats would be the final product. From the square toe to the strap with the faux pearls, everything about these shoes is on pointe.

Everlane The Italian Leather Day Ballet Flat

Everlane has mastered easy, minimal, everyday essentials, including The Italian Leather Day Ballet Flat. Made from quality Napa leather that molds to your feet, the shoes feature a higher throat line than most of its counterparts.

Tory Burch Runway Ballet 

Not about the bows and frills? Tory Burch’s Runway Ballet flat in the bright red color is super simple in design; it’s just a single elastic strap and square toe. Shop this pair if you’re unsure of the balletcore aesthetic and want to start with something more subtle.

Lucky Brand Eikia Ballet Flat

Want to go completely bow-free? The Eikia Ballet Flat doesn’t include any bells or whistles besides the zipper at the back, which will make slipping them on and off a breeze.

Vaneli Serene Flat 

For those who can’t find (or splurge on) the iconic, cap-toe ballet flats from Chanel, the Serene Flat is a similar option. Anything that’s quilted immediately looks so much more elegant. Plus, these shoes are just $150 at Nordstrom.

Larroudé Lee Crystal Bow Suede Flats

If you’re not a fan of round-toe ballet flats, these Larroudé ones are as pointy as they get. They come in neutral colorways that are perfect for the office and fancier occasions.