The Ballet Flat Roundup
11 of the Sweetest Mary Janes & Slippers
11 of the sweetest mary janes and slippers
Photo via Jamie Haller, shop the in-stock Black color way
You either love them or you hate them— perhaps you wore them in fifth grade and can’t stand the sight, or maybe you’re overjoyed they’re back in the zeitgeist. Either way, we’ve evolved past the more unflattering combinations of the mid-2000s (looking at you, gauchos and flats) and are pairing our delicate little shoes with more inspired silhouettes: long, flowing pants and dainty skirts and straight, structured denim à la Jane Birkin. Here are 11 beautiful, high-quality pairs of ballet flats and Mary Janes: versatile and easy enough to wear throughout the majority of the year.
Vagabond Delia Mary Jane | $130
This timeless style is crafted in leather, with an adjustable buckle strap across the upper and subtle square toes. Produced ethically with considered materials. The black color-way is available on Nordstrom and other colors are available directly from the brand.
Tamara Mellon Minty Ballerinas | $295
Made in Italy, these lovely satin ballet slippers come in a few colors by an original Jimmy Choo founder’s independent label.
Mansur Gravel Dream Ballerina | $445
Vegetable-tanned leather is crafted into the perfect ballerina flat, topped off with a knotted bow and low stacked heel for everyday wear, and comes in 13 colors.
Cayumas Boheme Bruciato C50 | $98
This playful Venetian shoe is characterized by its closure, with an adjustable strap with a nickel-free buckle and rounded toes. They’re perfect for all seasons and can be worn with stockings, socks or bare feet: they’re virtually weightless and fit into your luggage with ease. We love how Gabriella Gofis styles these.
AyeDE Darya Leather Flats | $295
Modern and understated, Aeyde's footwear always feels forward-thinking. A way to tap into this season's love of ballet flats, this 'Darya' pair is crafted from supple leather and has low block heels. Neat bows draw attention to the rounded toes.
Alohas Por Do Sol Patent flats | $187 on pre-order
This dainty ballet-inspired shoe features a tiny heel and dainty strap that’s equal parts sweet and sophisticated. Alohas’ founders run the Step by Step Project, which aims to create a more sustainable world by using environmentally friendly practices and employing local workers to boost the Spanish economy.
J. Crew Anya Mary Jane Flats | $148
Say hello to J. Crew’s modern take on the Mary Jane. This cool update has a slightly higher vamp (aka more toe coverage) and a square toe shape. Plus, the flexible sole and comfortable leather get better with every wear. This leather was sourced from a tannery that's certified by the Leather Working Group (LWG), an organization that works to promote sustainable environmental practices in the leather industry.
Vagabond Jolin Ballet Flat | $84-$120
Artful double stitching loops around the entry of this poised ballet flat crafted from supple leather with a debossed logo detail on the back.
The Day Ballet Flat | $145
Featuring a sculptural square toe and a higher throatline. Plus, it has all the elements of comfort—like buttery soft leather, a cushioned insole for all-day wearability, and an outsole that is made of low impact, recycled leather. Sourced from a tannery rated Gold or Silver by the Leather Working Group (LWG)—the highest ratings a tannery can receive for demonstrating best practices in environmental compliance and performance capabilities.
Maguire Prato Ballet Flat | $195
Maguire creates small-batch footwear that has a fresh, high-end feel with a quality edge. This ballerina features a gently squared toe and ultra-soft, supple leather.
Across all different price points, we hope you found a pair of mindfully-crafted ballet flats or Mary Janes that suit you as we head into fall.
Disclosure: I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you decide to buy any of the products I refer to and promote. All opinions are my own.