How to wear ballet flats taking inspiration from present and past it-girls

Ballet flats are among the standout shoes of the spring-summer season, and there’s no doubt about it. Thanks to their versatility, they adapt wonderfully to temperatures that are now too warm for sneakers but still too cool for sandals. Additionally, we’ve seen them worn by two fashion icons who remain beloved today: Audrey Hepburn and Brigitte Bardot. Below are some practical tips to follow in their stylish footsteps and update the allure of ballet flats with contemporary looks.

When to Wear Ballet Flats

These shoes boast an appeal that allows them to shine in a wide range of occasions. There are no specific rules: any day can be the right one to feel like a movie star. Naturally, we’re referring to Audrey and Brigitte, already mentioned here, whose outfits certainly deserve a dedicated spotlight.

If the combination of ballet flats and jeans appeals to those who love energetic looks, those looking to add a touch of romance to their image can find great inspiration in Hepburn's outfits. High-waisted wide skirts, dresses, and calf-length pants are ideal substitutes for sporty garments. The wide skirt and ballet flats combo also appears in Bardot’s looks, particularly shining in combination with Capri pants, a true classic.

What to Pair with Ballet Flats

Ballet flats have had many lives, as demonstrated by the way celebrities use them today. In an Instagram post dated August 31, 2023, model Taylor Hill wears a pair that go well with a sporty outfit, made chic with sunglasses and a high bun. A sporty vibe is also present in the look showcased by Kendall Jenner in a post on her Instagram profile dated March 26, 2024. She wears black shoes, a top, and gray leggings, highlighting the casual side of these dreamy shoes.

For those wondering how to wear pointed ballet flats, a convincing source of inspiration comes from Emma Roberts' Instagram profile. In a post dated July 24, 2023, the actress wears a pair in this particular style. Her outfit is perfect for summer: a striped shirt with slightly rolled-up sleeves, denim shorts, and sunglasses, welcoming the sunniest season in a very convincing way. For those who prefer t-shirts over shirts, a marinière is suggested to add a touch of elegant Parisian style.

What to do if the temperatures are colder than expected? A great idea comes from model Elsa Hosk's Instagram profile. In a post from December 2023, she pairs a beloved version of these shoes with gray socks that reach just below the calf. The choice to match a coordinated sweater and enhance the overall look with a bow hairstyle is splendid.

Ballet Flats or Loafers?

It seems impossible to choose: both of these shoes give a look a distinct and well-defined personality. Our advice is to not be afraid to experiment with colors as well as styles (ballet flats with studs, with rhinestones, loafers with tassels or without...), and to have fun transitioning from neutral-toned outfits to others featuring bold splashes of color at your feet. For example: Bally's ballet flats, with strawberries!

That said, it’s always useful to consider the character you want to give your outfit. For a practical example starting with an already mentioned piece, the striped shirt, ballet flats highlight its more carefree side. Loafers, on the other hand, emphasize its particular elegance, making them an excellent alternative to the refined austerity of pumps.