Ballet flats really blew up in the Fall of 2022, mostly thanks to Matilda Djerf and TikTok. A lot of us got triggered by this trend, because it gives us flash backs of early 2010s skinny jeans and ballet flat combo. However, the ballet flat trend is coming back in a different way in 2022. Influencers are wearing them with baggy jeans and slouchy trousers. The idea is to pair it with unexpected outfits as more of a feminine touch to an edgy look, rather than going for a preppy, girly vibe. The Miu Miu ballet flat is especially coming back in full force being styled in unconventional (very 2022) ways.
Personally, I’m excited for this trend to come back as I have a few pairs myself and they’re a comfy shoe alternative to a sneaker or boot.
How to wear ballet flats in the winter
Styling ballet flats for winter is easier than you think. It’s all about layers. Just because it’s winter, it doesn’t mean we have to give up our ballet flats and go for winter boots. Of course they might not protect you from snowy, harsh weather, but they definitely provide an interesting styling touch to your winter outfit.
I decided to style my ballet flats for winter in two different ways. I would say the first step is getting wool or cashmere socks. Mine are from H&M from a few years back but you can find them for pretty affordable on Amazon.
I styled my ballet flats with a fur coat from a thrift store a few years back, flared jeans, a cropped turtleneck sweater, and cashmere socks, as well as a vintage straw bag. My inspiration was clearly Jane Birkin.
Another way I decided to style my ballet flats for winter was in a dressier version. I paired them with a cashmere turtleneck, black leather skirt, black tights, my cashmere socks and a Vivienne Westwood bag. This way you can stay warm while still looking cute. Of course you can throw a black coat over it or even a cute puffer coat.
How to break in ballet flats
Ballet flats can be uncomfortable until you break them in, especially because they’re so flat. With the platform trend, we’ve gotten used to not wearing very flat shoes, so this trend takes getting used to.
One easy way to break in your ballet flats is to wear them around the house before wearing them out. Your feet will start getting used to them and they will mold to the shape of your feet. To get them to stretch a bit, you can also throw on a thicker sock while you wear them around the house.
Another way you can break in your ballet flats is by wearing invisible socks. Wearing no-show socks is a good way to make sure your flats are more comfortable when wearing them out. And the great thing about no-show socks is that they won’t ruin the look of the ballet flat.
Lastly, you can invest in some insoles as well as gel dots. Insoles will provide extra support, considering that flats don’t have a lot of arch support. If you’re noticing that your flats are causing pain in certain areas, you may apply your gel dots there and this should improve the comfort of the shoe significantly.
Lily Rose Depp ballet flats
We are all obsessed with those adorable, red flats that Lily Rose Depp wears all the time. The shoe that she wears is from french brand, Repetto and they retail for more than $300 which is definitely on the pricier side. The style of the shoe is not a traditional ballet flat and it features a short heel which is a great alternative for those of us who don’t like the flatness of the ballet flat.
If you’re not looking to break the bank with a Repetto shoe, I found a great dupe at Oak + Fort. My shoes are a few years old but you can find some good dupe options on ASOS. I decided to pair my Lily Rose Depp ballet flat dupes with a vintage denim pant, cashmere sweater and a Vivienne Westwood bag. I also wore a pair of loafer socks to warm up the look a bit. I decided to keep the rest of the look pretty simple to make sure the shoes stand out on their own.
Zara leather ballet flats
My all time favorite ballet flats I’ve owned are these Zara leather ballet flats, which are also a great dupe for the Miu Miu ballet flat. They are extremely comfortable and easy to transition into Fall/winter with. I love wearing them with baggy jeans in particular, as they add a feminine touch.
Although, Zara unfortunately no longer sells these, they have a big selection of ballerinas to choose from for the fraction of the price of other brands. This pair is particularly perfect and looks extremely comfortable at only $70.
If you’re looking for a Miu Miu dupe, here are some great options from Amazon:
The Fix Women’s Singh Elastic Strap Ballet Flat with Lace-up Ankle
Anna Womens Dana Closed Toe Ankle Strap Slide Flats
If you’re looking for more 2010s fashion inspo, check out the The Indie Sleaze Fashion Trend.