Ballet Flats are Back!

Born in the 20th century, the ballet flat was invented in 1932 by the Australian Jacob Bloch and brought to France by the French Rose Repetto. The idea? To sew a sole to a dance slipper inside out before turning it over. It's a technique called “stitch and return”! After becoming a city shoe, the ballet flat was seen on the feet of style icons like Audrey Hepburn in the 1953 William Wyler film Roman Holiday, or on Brigitte Bardot in the 1956 movie And God Created Woman.

Since, depending on trends, ballet flats have been hidden away in cupboards or dusted off and displayed like trophies. One thing is sure, this year, the ballet flat is back on centre stage. Big sister of the tennis shoe, this dance slipper guarantees a dynamic, sophisticated look. Emerging from Y2K trends, “ballet core”, and Parisian clichés, this reconfirmed major classic has signaled its return.

The keyword for adopting the ballet flat? Simplicity! A blazer and jeans or trousers are your allies for a flawless look with this essential. Another option: Contrast this delicate shoe with a more casual look: oversize T-shirts, baggy trousers or big wool socks will keep you warm this winter.

For those adept at contrasting looks, go for the hybrid ballet flats by Simone Rocha and Prada, half ballet, half basketball.

To adopt the pointy-toed trend all while keeping your feet on the ground, check out Gucci's pointy ballet flats.

Do you have a classic chic look? Having first seen the light of day in the 60s thanks to Coco Chanel, the two-tone ballet flat is the statement piece your collection's been missing.

Want to twist your look? Get perspective with these heeled ballet shoes.