Ballet flats are making a major comeback, darlings! As your fashion-forward friend who’s navigated the choppy waters of footwear trends for decades, I’m thrilled to share some fabulous ways to rock these comfortable classics. Whether you’re running errands or attending a gallery opening, these versatile shoes can elevate your style while keeping your feet happy—because who says comfort and chic can’t coexist after 50?
1. Pair With Cropped Trousers
Nothing says ‘I’ve mastered effortless style’ quite like ballet flats with cropped trousers! The slight ankle reveal creates a lengthening effect that’s oh-so-flattering.
I discovered this combo after a disastrous attempt at platform sneakers left me with a twisted ankle and wounded pride. Trust me on this one!
2. Elevate Casual Jeans
Forget what you heard about jeans being too casual! Ballet flats instantly polish your favorite denim, creating that je ne sais quoi the French have mastered.
When a Parisian woman complimented my outfit last spring, I nearly fainted from fashion validation. Straight-leg styles work particularly divine here.
3. Midi Skirt Magic
Where high heels might seem too formal and sneakers too casual, ballet flats strike the perfect balance with flowing midi skirts. I’ve worn this combination to three gallery openings and received compliments each time!
The proportions create a wonderfully feminine silhouette without sacrificing mobility.
4. Sophisticated Shorts Ensemble
Though shorts might seem reserved for the younger crowd, longer tailored styles paired with ballet flats create an unexpectedly sophisticated look. I once skeptically tried this combo before a garden party and received endless compliments!
Keep the shorts knee-length for elegance and balance.
5. Monochromatic Marvel
Matching your ballet flats to your outfit creates a streamlined silhouette that adds inches to your frame—a trick I’ve employed since discovering it in my forties!
When wearing all navy or all camel, the continuous color line works visual wonders. However, avoid matchy-matchy accessories that can make the look feel dated.
6. Statement Flats with Neutrals
If you’ve fallen in love with those leopard-print ballet flats (as I did last season), pair them with understated neutrals to let them shine! During a lunch with my most judgmental friend, even she couldn’t resist asking where I’d found them.
Navy, camel, and gray create the perfect backdrop.
7. Tailored Blazer Coordination
How marvelously ballet flats complement a structured blazer! This power pairing says ‘I mean business’ while maintaining feminine charm. Last month, I wore this to a board meeting and later to drinks—versatility at its finest!
Choose slightly pointed flats for extra sophistication with tailored pieces.
8. Playful Pattern Mixing
Against conventional wisdom, I’ve found mixing patterns with ballet flats creates visual interest without overwhelming. My striped flats with a subtle floral dress garnered more compliments than any other outfit last summer!
The key? Keep patterns in the same color family and vary their scale dramatically.
9. Ankle-Grazing Maxi Dresses
Maxi dresses and ballet flats—a match made in heaven for those of us who’ve bid adieu to stilettos! After twisting my ankle at my niece’s wedding, I discovered this combination offers elegance without the emergency room visit.
Just ensure your hem floats slightly above the ground for maximum grace.
10. Luxe Leather Leggings
Forget what you’ve heard about age-appropriate dressing! Leather leggings with ballet flats create an unexpected edge that works brilliantly for dinner dates. I wore this to meet my daughter’s new boyfriend, and his first comment was about my ‘cool style’!
Just balance with a longer, looser top.
11. Classic Trench Pairing
Though seemingly simple, ballet flats with a trench coat channel Audrey Hepburn vibes that never expire! During a rainy Paris vacation, this combination saved me from both puddles and fashion faux pas.
My secret tip? Choose flats with a water-resistant finish for practical elegance.
12. Whimsical Socks Showcase
Against my initial judgment (and my daughter’s horrified expression), ballet flats with decorative socks create a playfully sophisticated look! After reluctantly trying this trend, I’ve become somewhat obsessed.
While vacationing in Copenhagen, three different women stopped me to compliment this unexpectedly charming combination.
13. Linen Ensemble Perfection
Summer heat demands breathable fabrics, and ballet flats with linen pieces create an effortless Mediterranean-inspired look. During a heatwave last August, this combination kept me looking composed while everyone else wilted!
The relaxed nature of linen perfectly balances the ballet flat’s structure.
14. Silk Scarf Coordination
Harmonizing your ballet flats with a silk scarf creates a delightfully coordinated look without appearing overly matched. I stumbled upon this trick when rushing out the door, grabbing a scarf that coincidentally matched my footwear.
Now it’s my signature move for elevating simple outfits instantly!
15. Wide-Leg Trouser Balance
Though counterintuitive, wide-leg trousers with ballet flats create a beautifully balanced silhouette! After years of pairing these pants only with heels, I accidentally discovered this combination when racing to catch a flight.
The secret? Ensure your hem just kisses the top of your foot.
16. Cozy Sweater Dress Complement
When temperatures drop, ballet flats with a sweater dress offer comfort without sacrificing style. During last autumn’s gallery hop, I remained comfortable while friends complained about their boot blisters!
The key lies in choosing slightly structured flats to balance the dress’s softness.
17. Unexpected Denim Skirt Revival
Whoever declared denim skirts ‘too young’ clearly never paired one with sophisticated ballet flats! After retrieving mine from my daughter’s ‘donation’ pile, I’ve created countless outfits that garner compliments.
Opt for an A-line cut hitting just below the knee for the most flattering proportions.
18. Metallic Flats for Evening
Why torture yourself with evening heels when metallic ballet flats offer equal glamour? After a particularly painful wedding reception in stilettos, I’ve exclusively worn my silver flats to formal events.
Paired with ankle-length evening wear, they provide unexpected sophistication while allowing you to dance all night!