Re: Your Ballet Flats—Here Are the Chicest Ways to Wear Them This Summer

Ballet flats are back (again). Let’s be honest, though—they never really left. This year is already dishing out fresh ways to style the classic silhouette this summer that feel updated and cooler than ever before. The key? It’s all about contrast. A sleek, minimal pair of flats (we’re talking about matte leather and mesh with a square toe) grounds more directional pieces like a sculptural midi dress or oversize trousers. The unexpected element keeps the whole look from trying too hard.

Let’s talk about tailoring. Ballet flats suddenly feel very right when paired with an easy, slouchy suit—preferably in a sun-faded pastel or sharp, bright white. Think low-slung trousers, a lightweight blazer worn open, and a fitted tank underneath. The polish of a suit meets the effortlessness of flats, and the combo is ideal for warm days when you want to look pulled-together without breaking a sweat.

Another low-key way to make ballet flats work hard this season? Mini hemlines. It’s a silhouette thing: The short length keeps things feeling fresh, while the flat shoes add an elegant edge. Style yours with a structured minidress or crisp boxer shorts and a vintage tee. Finish the look with chic sunglasses and sleek accessories for that perfect mix of casual and stylishly put-together.

Yes, you should absolutely wear ballet flats on vacation. The trick is to keep the palette light and the vibe easy. A floaty linen set or breezy wrap skirt worn with barely-there flats feels intentional and elevated. Bonus points for slingback or mesh pairs that give a little more texture. Chic, effortless, and blister-free, it’s a rare trifecta—no notes.

Below, see and shop the coolest ways to wear ballet flats this summer.

It’s the combination of a pink linen top and dark denim here.

ZARA Leather Ballet Flats

Now, this is how you style long denim shorts this summer.

Rothy’s The Ballet Mary Jane

The headscarf gives laid-back yet put-together vibes.

Miu Miu Satin Ballerinas

The layering situation here is everything.

Madewell The Greta Ballet Flats

A little white dress and flats never fail.

SANDRO Shiny Leather Ballet Flats

Hard yes on the bloomer shorts with a simple tank.

Larroudé Verona Ballet Flats

Okay, here’s another exceptional way to style your long denim shorts this warm-weather season.

RAYE Jolie Flats

You can’t go wrong with a breezy maxi dress and some Tabi ballet flats.

Maison Margiela Tabi Ballerina Flats

Denim overalls are flipped on their head when you add net ballet flats and a great pair of sunnies.

STAUD Alba Ballet Flats

This whole outfit is so luxe.

Marc Fisher Ubet Ballet Flats

Basic white tank + on-trend denim + ballet flats = a winning combination every time.

CHRISTOPHER ESBER Mesh Ballet Flats

I love the multiple pops of red here broken up by trendy add-ons like white socks and this open embroidered shirt.

Aeyde Delfina Kid Suede Leather Red Flats

Wear this outfit on repeat this summer.

Steve Madden Dory Cap Toe Mary Jane Flats

Silver ballet flats alway pair well with darker denim washes.

Jeffrey Campbell Dancerina Flats

The loose, neutral jeans win with this outfit.

MANOLO BLAHNIK Veralli Bow-Detailed Suede Ballet Flats

Strapless tops are having quite the comeback… Just wait and see.

Madewell The April Ballet Flat

An easy cotton frock, a shoulder bag, and Mary Jane flats are exactly the kind of outfit formula that works for any and every summer occasion.

Dear Frances Winter Balla Flats

Now, we all know how to style boxer shorts and ballet flats together. You’re welcome.

Mansur Gavriel Dance Ballerina Flats

Here’s an all-black look that always serves. Just break it up with a straw bag for the perfect summertime ensemble.

Reformation Bethany Ballet Flats

For those chillier days in the late spring and summer, add a cropped trench and swap out your shorts for jeans. Ballet flats, on the other hand, work no matter the weather (mostly).

Veronica Beard Ellie Flats

The mixed prints are so cool here.

Jamie Haller The Minimalist Slippers

A simple yet classic way to pair your favorite denim and ballet flats together.

ALOHAS Sway Ballet Flats