The French luxury brand’s signature shoe are the key flat of the season but cost $1270 — here’s how to get the look for less.
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Love it or hate it — ballet flats are back.
The staple shoe of the 2000s has had a resurgance in popularity — but with a chic update that makes them feel decidedly fresh.
“Along with the classic round toe ballet flat we are also seeing pointed and square toe ballet flats making their own mark,” explains THE ICONIC’s head of style Nicole Adolphe to news.com.au.
Here’s our round up of the best ballet flats you can buy right now — including an affordable way to get the must-have Chanel ballet flat look.
BEST CHANEL BALLET FLAT DUPES
Making their debut back in 1984, Chanel’s ballet flats have been a fashion staple for decades but have had a resurgence in the past few months as the ballet flat became a sartorial favourite once again.
But the designer shoe will cost you. Even a second-hand pair sell for upwards of $600, while brand new (if you can get your hands on them) are $1270.
Fortunately you can get the look for less with these Chanel-inspired ballet flat shoes we’ve rounded up here.
Aldo Braylynn Quilted Ballet Flats, THE ICONIC, $119.95
To me these Aldo ballet flats are the perfect dupe for the Chanel version not just because they come in a similar colour.
The quilting is also a classic detail on many of Chanel’s leather bags and accessories, making these shoes so chic.
They are made from a leather upper with a textile lining, with a cute bow at the front.
RUBI Quilted Square Toe Ballet Flats, THE ICONIC, $24.99
Nicole recommends this RUBI quilted pair for those wanting to get a Chanel-inspired look. These flats have a faux leather quilted style similar to the French label while the square toe gives it a modern touch. The shoes also have a padded footbed.
ASOS DESIGN Wide Fit Locket square toe ballet flats in beige and black, ASOS, $40
Fair warning: Shop quickly if you see your size in this ASOS pair as they often sell out. This faux leather pair have the classic Chanel-style colour block and a wide fit, making them ideal for all-day wear.
Nina Armando Bruna II, THE ICONIC, $229
The navy and black colour blocking style of these ballet flats also echo Chanel’s famous style, plus the patent black toe makes them feel dressier.
Featuring a leather upper and lining with a rubber sole, these are a classic ballet flat that will stay in fashion for seasons to come.
BEST BALLET FLATS AT THE ICONIC
According to Nicole, the most popular ballet flat style at THE ICONIC right now is a “classic black ballet flat with a bow”.
“I recommend the Spurr Koren Ballet Flats or Ted Baker Baylay Leather Bow Ballet Pump Shoes,” she said.
Here’s a round-up of the most popular ballet flats at THE ICONIC right now, plus Nicole’s favourite picks.
Spurr Koren Ballet Flats, THE ICONIC, $49.99
These shoes are a modern twist on the classic ballet flat style. With an higher enclosed round toe and tie bow detail, they are made from a smooth faux leather look and have an pull tab on the heel.
Ted Baker Baylay Leather Bow Ballet Pump Shoes – Women’s, THE ICONIC, $109 (down from $219)
Ted Baker is famous for its classic British style and is one of the UK’s most popular clothing, shoe and accessory brands. These ballet flats are a great investment — featuring a leather upper and classic bow detailing, they also have a cute gold floral charm that sets them apart.
Witchery Kai Suede Ballet, THE ICONIC, $129.95
You won’t want anyone to step on these blue suede shoes. Add a beautiful pop of colour to your outfit with these powder blue Witchery ballet flats in leather suede.
These shoes also give good support with a two-part outsole and 10mm heel height.
RUBI Prima Point Ballerina Flats, THE ICONIC, $24.99
These leather look ivory flats will make a chic addition to your wardrobe — they would look great paired with wide legged pants for work or a pretty floral dress in summer.
They’re also seriously affordable and come with a padded sole for comfort.
Atmos&Here Angelica Leather Ballet Flats, THE ICONIC, $109.99
These Atmos&Here ballet flats get a big tick from us thanks to their scalloped edge that’s similar to high fashion brand Chloe’s signature style.
Featuring a leather upper and cute bow they also have a slight heel for comfort.
RUBI Square Toe Ballet Flats, THE ICONIC, $24.99
Similar to the other RUBI flats on the list these ballet flats also have a modern square toe that sets them apart from other styles.
These fuchsia flats have a padded footbed for comfort and will add a welcome pop of colour to your wardrobe.
Country Road Claudia Ballet, Country Road, $99.95
We couldn’t go past these Country Road ballet flats — they’re a classic style and great value for a leather shoe.
Made from responsibly sourced leather they have a 0.75cm heel and a padded insole for comfort.
They have over 400 five star reviews on Country Road’s website, with shoppers describing them as a “very comfy” shoe that “goes with everything”.
Review Ana Tweed Ballet Shoes Navy, Myer, $159.95
These shoes are a great option for those who want a ballet flat option they can wear most days but don’t want to opt for black or beige.
The navy and tweet design of these shoes is understated enough to go with most clothing while adding a bit of interest to your look.
Wittner Melinda New Flesh Leather Flat, Wittner, $220
These shoes are inspired by Valentino’s iconic Rockstud ballet flats. Featuring a leather upper and lining they have double layer in-built padding for extra comfort, as well as a slight heel.
Active Flex by Easy Steps Barton Nude Glove Flat Shoes, Myer, $139.95
These shoes are ideal for anyone who wants the ballet flat look but needs extra foot support. The leather shoe has a 2.5cm wedge heel and supportive sole as well as a round toe and bow embellishment.
Nine West Speakup, Nine West, $149.95
These are the perfect pink ballet flats to add to cart. With a cute pointed toy and textured faux leather upper, they have a padded footbed for all day wear as well as a slight heel.
HOW TO STYLE BALLET FLATS
“Ballet flats are a really versatile wardrobe staple and a much more comfortable alternative to wearing heels at work,” Nicole said.
“They add a French touch paired with jeans, a striped tee and a trench coat, and can just as easily be worn with a puff sleeve midi dress.
“I also love the look of pairing ballet flats with a knitted jumper and a bright silk bias cut skirt.”
Need a new pair of rain boots? Shop these best-selling ones that have more than 6000 five star reviews or read our round-up of the best white sneakers.
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Hannah Paine is a senior Ecommerce Writer for Best Of. An experienced lifestyle journalist, she joined the news.com.au team in 2018. She has written for some of Australia's biggest titles and covered everything from beauty, fashion to health - you name it, she's written it. Hannah is passionate about finding the right product at the right price and believes good skincare and clothes don't need to cost the earth.
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