5 Alternatives to Ballet Flats That Are Just as Comfortable and Stylish

These last few seasons, ballerina shoes have firmly conquered the fashion scene. But for every person who sees them as an elegant and comfortable style solution, there’s another searching for the best alternatives to ballet flats.

Like just about every other shoe trend, there’s a divide. Critics say ballet flats are not comfortable, too basic, or hard to style. Others consider it the most essential shoe in their closet. To help out that former group, we started thinking about seriously about what, beyond sneakers and classic loafers, really are the most stylish and comfortable shoes—the kind of footwear that would be an actual, viable alternative to ballet flats.

As a result, we discovered a whole world of practical substitutes that are as durable as they are fashion-forward and easy to wear. Behold: The best alternatives to ballet flats this spring and summer.

1. Boat Shoes

Considering how soft ballet flats can be, sometimes they lack the structure that an outfit might need. Suede loafers or boat shoes, which have recently come back into the trend cycle, are the perfect antidote and still retain that preppy look. Plus, their slightly stiffer shape helps add an element of cohesion to looser-fitting garments.

Courtesy of brand

Aldo Sail Boat Shoes

$97

Nordstrom

Courtesy of brand

Everlane Boat Shoes

$198

Everlane

2. Thong Sandals

Thong sandals offer a striking contrast that you can’t really get with a ballet flat. Of course, you may not think flip flops are the best shoes for all-day walking either, but you’ll at least appreciate how much cooler they are than a pair of leather ballerinas in the warmer spring and summer months.

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Franco Sarto Iris Thong Sandals

$110 $100

Amazon

$110 $99

Zappos

Courtesy of brand
Tested and reviewed by Glamour contributor Jess Radloff

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Tory Burch Miller Sandals

$198

Nordstrom

$198

Tory Burch

3. Mules

The street style stars of Paris and Copenhagen are always a source of inspiration when it comes to styling choices. And after going through our social media feeds, we saw look after look that proved slip-on mules have a similar effect to ballet flats. Like ballerinas, they work well with both casual outfits and more dressy office wear. Best of all, the exposed heel can elongate the leg and keep you feeling cooler in the warmer weather.

Reformation Wilda Kitten Mule

$278

Reformation

Courtesy of brand

Soludos Venetian Mules

$139

Soludos

4. Kitten Heels

We’ll be honest, there’s nothing we love more than wearing ballet flats to an evening event, and they always translate well with more glamorous outfits. But if you want something equally elegant, swap your ballerina flats for a shoe with a minimal kitten heel.

Courtesy of brand

Calvin Klein Dainty Kitten Heels

$99

Nordstrom

Courtesy of brand

Moommo Low Kitten Heel Pumps

$60 $57

Amazon

5. Square-Toe Shoes

For something a little more unexpected that still is comfortable and classic, look for square-toe shoes with straps, buckles, or other interesting details, either as a flat or with a block heel. They’re a riskier move than the ballet flat, but will take your outfit to the next level.