Are ballet flats still trending in 2026? Here’s how a Fashion Editor would style them

Ah, the humble ballet flat. Arguably the most standout footwear hero throughout 2024 and 2025, donned on repeat by those most stylish at fashion weeks around the globe, on awards show red carpets and the city streets. But the question on everyone’s lips (and those afraid to be labelled ‘outdated’) are ballet flats still in for 2026? 

A great question, dear reader, and the long and short of it, in my opinion, is yes. 

As someone who often favours form over function, the reason ballet flats are so great is that they do both. Whether you want to girlify a grunge look, pair down an after-dark elegant look or fit in with the cool-girls on Broadway Market, if ever in doubt for what to wear on your tootsies, a ballet flat is always a good idea.

From block heel styles to studded round toe options, hoof toe tabi’s, sporty sneaker renditions and The Row’s questionable mesh options, the ballet flat realm is ripe with alternative options, meaning there’s literally a style to fit all aesthetics. 

© Sandy Liang

© Launchmetrics

© Launchmetrics

© Daniele Oberrauch/Launchmetrics

It seems I’m not the only one who thinks the dainty delights have earned their place in the style sphere for 2026. On the runway, cult-favourite brands including Sandy Liang, Ashley Williams, Giambattista Valli and Vivetta all sent a slew of models down their SS26 catwalks in various versions of ballerina-ispired pumps. 

It’s no secret that the weather right now isn’t exactly playing ball. Brisk winds, drizzly downpours and less than pleasant temperatures are all our current reality, but that doesn’t mean you have to swap out your flats for rubber soles. 

How to style ballets flat in 2026 – according to a Style Editor.

With Lace Tights

Adding an interesting hosiery option to any ensemble is a simple one-way ticket to outfit elevation, and it just so happens that they look great with ballet flats. You’ve probably seen Alohas trending Rosalind flats stomping around the city streets on the feet of every well-dressed lady in town, and there’s a reason why they’ve gained so much popularity. Comfortable, cute and available in a range of vibrant and tonal colourways, the elasticised style is basically the outside version of a slipper. 

Editor’s Tip: Because the drawstring fixture creates a ruched hole design on the front, this makes them perfect for styling with lacey tights, as it doesn’t cover the design or cut your legs off in a strange proportion like a lace-up shoe would. 

With a Sheer Ensemble 

Just like ballet flats, sheer ensembles of all kinds are sticking around for 2026, and pairing the duo together is a sure way to be coined best dressed on any city high street. Ballet flats instantly make you feel like a fairy princess, so why not go all out and don a dress to match? Tabi shilouettes are arguably the most iconic and divisive ballerina shilouette on the fashion rota, made famous by French fashion house, Maison Margiela, back in 1988. Split at the toe to mimic a hoof, the bizarre yet ultra-popular style also offers extreme comfort and practicality as the design improves balance and grip.

Editor’s Tip: Never be afraid to indulge in a bright colourway. Bold-toned footwear is the easiest way to inject colour into any look, but make sure you tie everything together and match at least one accessory. 

With Jeans and Cute Top

Loved by the likes of Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber and Kaia Gerber, styling up a pair of classic jeans and a cute top with a set of flats is It-girl-approved for a reason. As you’ve probably noticed, sporty styles are topping the trending charts, Puma’s Speedcat options in all colourways taking the cake. The espresso brown suede options are perfect for those who favour a minimalistic tonal approach, while the animal print and silver styles are perfect for those who like to make a statement.

Editor’s Tip: Adding a sporty style like the Puma Speedcats to a dressy look is a fun way to add a touch of quirk, and let me not forget to mention they look ultra cute with a juxtaposing frilly or lace sock.

With a Sporty Ensemble

One of my favourite options on the ballerina flat market is Adidas’ Taekwondo Mei ballet trainers. Made from 100% leather and fit with a grippy gum sole, this style is the perfect balance of sporty chic. Equipped with various lace options, including long ribbons to lace around your ankles, these shoes are the gift that just keeps on giving. I love styling these with billowing midi and maxi skirts, as there’s something so fun about mixing ultra femme ensembles with an unsuspecting shoe. 

Editor’s Tip: If you’re someone who often has to run for the bus, rest assured, I’ve tried and tested these on multiple occasions, and they live up to the challenge. 

What Ballet Flats To Shop: