The ballet flat trend has yet again made its way around the proverbial fashion sun. But this time, instead of working professionals claiming it as their own, it appears Gen Z has decided to bring it back with an edgy twist. 

If you’re over the age of 30 and are counting them out because you feel like “been there done that” or think you’re not cool enough, I would like to remind all my Millenials and Gen X’ers that there was a time when you rocked them before the kiddos came around and made it seem shiny and new. 

The only mindset you need in regards to trends is— or anything style and fashion-related — does it work for you? If it does, then we love it. If it doesn't, then we leave it to everyone else to play with. So, if you’re someone who works in a business casual office where you don’t like heels and are tired of sneakers, a ballet flat might be for you. Or maybe you’re someone who has a very polished, feminine style and wants to look chic and put together when you’re out running errands, a ballet flat could be the perfect fit. Or maybe you need to get your toes done and it’s too hot for sneakers, then again I believe a ballet flat can be your savior. 

For those who fit into one of those categories or are simply looking to add a ballet flat to their shoe collection, let’s go through some ways to wear them and some styles to look out for. 

The Classically Feminine Flat

Ballet flats have been around since the 50s. And the style that started then and has since stayed is the classically feminine ballet flat. It’s light, dainty, and pairs well with most polished outfits. The Channel two-tone style and all of her dupes are timeless and easy to style. One thing you want to be mindful of is a ballet flat can make you look shorter when worn with a midi-length dress or skirt. To avoid appearing like you shrunk two inches, opt for a nude color that blends seamlessly with your foot color. This will elongate you rather than shorten you.

A Dash of Interest Ballet Flat

If your personal style doesn’t scream old money but also doesn’t align with the newer, fashion-forward ballet flats, then consider one that has a dash of interest to it. For instance, you can dip your toes into the mesh trend by choosing a mesh style with a classically feminine shape. Another option is a pop of color or print to add intrigue to an otherwise basic, everyday outfit. Shoes with leopard or even red can add a sexy or edgy flair depending on how you style them. Experiment with a ballet flat like you would with any other shoe.

Today’s Edgy and Modern Ballet Flat

For my trendy women who dare to take on the newest styles without fear, then here are a few examples of ways to do it easily. Edgy buckles and extra straps seem to be the biggest version of the ballet flat right now. If you want to wear this style effortlessly, then avoiding the ones that wrap around the ankles is your best bet. Keep it cute and minimal with the extra decor. The strap around across the top of the foot is another obstacle you’ll want to avoid. If it’s not nude, it can cut off your leg line, making you look shorter and limiting the amount of skirt and dress lengths you can wear it with. Lastly, have fun with the bling elements of the trend. If glam is an aspect of your style you resonate with, then some rhinestone action will be right up your alley.

I can’t tell you whether or not to love or hate the ballet flat. This is something you must decide between yourself and your personal style. The comfortabiliy and versatility is not something we have to question because there are so many options available. You have to ask yourself if it is right for you. The styles variations right now are endless with things we’ve seen for years that match a timeless wardobe to the modern, eccentric styles that Gen Z has made so popular to everything else in between. Don’t let the way the trend shows up deter you from participating in it. And don’t force yourself to participate in a trend that doesn’t like you back.