One of the biggest trends for fall is the return of the ballet flat, shepherded in by celebrities including Meghan Markle, Hailey Bieber, and Sofia Richie. Ballet flats first surged in popularity in the ‘40s and ‘50s, worn by style icons like Brigitte Bardot, Audrey Hepburn, and Jackie Kennedy. Inspired by shoes worn by dancers, they convey a certain je-ne-sais-quoi French elegance that can transform a white T-shirt and a pair of jeans into a thoughtful and refined outfit.
But the best feature of the shoes might be their packability. I always like to throw an extra pair of ballet flats in my suitcase, especially if I’m traveling somewhere where heels aren’t an option. (After a day of hiking through Patagonia, it’s nice not to have to wear your muddy boots to dinner.) Even when your suitcase is full, there’s a good chance that there’s always room for a pair of slim ballet flats.
But there’s no getting around the fact that ultra-flat shoes are uncomfortable at times, so I canvassed some of my most stylish jet-setting friends and rounded up brands offering the most travel-friendly pairs.
Everyday ballet flats
Aerosoles Dumas Point Toe Flat
One of my favorite footwear brands, Aerosoles, creates ultra-comfortable and supportive shoes that still look stylish. I’ve walked 30,000 steps in a day through Paris in a pair of Aerosoles without any discomfort—it’s essentially orthopedic footwear masquerading as fashion. The Dumas is an updated take on the ballet flat, staying true to the original style with a dainty bow but adding a pointed toe for an extra sprinkle of sophistication. The durable rubber sole and built-in arch support mean this shoe is much sturdier than it looks (and since it comes in half sizes, you can get the fit just right).
Kenneth Cole Myra flat
These simple yet chic Kenneth Cole flats pair well with just about any fall outfit. The leather Myra ballet flats have a blunt toe embellished with a bow and feature a Mary Jane–style elastic strap. Coming in under $100, they’re a versatile option that won’t blow your budget—and they come in black leather, silver metallic, and leopard suede.
Rothy’s has developed somewhat of a cult following among travel writers who love the shoes for their comfort and packability—and that they’re machine washable. Professional travelers appreciate having a footwear option that looks appropriate in any setting, from a casual day of sightseeing to a dinner at a Michelin–starred restaurant. Plus, you never know when you’re going to get a last-minute invite to a dressy event. “I live in flip flops and sandals, so segueing to something dressier when I travel was always a conundrum before I discovered Rothy’s,” says Florida–based travel writer Terry Ward. “They instantly upgrade any outfit; you can smush them up tight into a suitcase and they never lose their shape. Definitely worth the money—mine have held up for years.”
Splurge-worthy flats
Le Monde Béryl Mary Jane ballet flats
Alice Russotti, Founder and Creative Director of Porta, swears by Le Monde Beryl’s ballet flats. For her homewares boutique in Brooklyn, Russotti traverses the globe in search of skilled artisans—and when she’s not traveling for work, she’s out exploring with her two young sons. Russotti has mastered the art of the elegant and comfortable travel uniform, down to the perfect pair of ballet flats. Le Monde Beryl’s Mary Jane style adds a strap that’s reminiscent of the ribbons on professional pointe shoes. Travelers can go for the classic leather version or opt for something edgier with leopard calf hair or mesh styles.
Mansur Gavriel Square Toe ballerina
“The Mansur Gavriel square-toe ballerina flats are IT!” says Devin Duckworth, Design Director at Oltre Magazine. These ultra-chic flats lend a high-fashion edge to any outfit. Made from Italian lambskin, the timeless shoes are made to mold to your feet for ultimate comfort. Another pro: These ballet flats can be monogrammed with one letter on each shoe.
Repetto Cendrillon ballerinas
The original ballet flat—created by Rose Repetto for Brigitte Bardot to wear in the 1956 film And God Created Woman—is still available, and perhaps even better than ever. Michelle Peralta, a film producer and pilates instructor, loves to travel with the Cendrillon ballerinas. “They’re lightweight and dainty,” she says. They also come in a multitude of materials, including patent leather, velvet, and satin. And if you’re looking for something with a bit more structure, the Camille ballerinas have a one-inch block heel that adds a touch of glamour.
Ferragamo Varina ballet flat
Jasmine Chong, a fashion designer and co-owner of Celestia Yacht who frequently travels between Southeast Asia and her home in New York City, is partial to Ferragamo’s ballet flats. The comfortable Varina style comes in red, amaretti, and black patent leather with a grosgrain bow and metal detail on the toe. Chong says that what really makes the shoes comfortable is that they come in different widths, so you’re able to find a size that fits you best.
Miu Miu leather ballerinas
Colorado–based UX designer Amanda Nevarez (who moonlights as a fashion and travel blogger) had talked herself out of buying ballet flats since they’re not very practical for her home in Vail. “But I couldn’t resist any longer and bought the Miu Miu leather ballet flats,” she says. “They are like stepping into a cloud of butter. Honestly, the most comfortable thing I’ve ever had on my feet.” The comfortable square-toe flats come in leather with a rubber sole and a removable elastic bow and strap.
Budget-friendly flats
Silky Toes Velvet foldable ballet flats
While these foldable ballet flats certainly aren’t sturdy or comfortable enough for all-day wear, they are a traveler’s secret weapon. The round-toe velvet flats are little more than a fancy rubber-soled sock, but they are undeniably handy. The lightweight shoes, which come in 12 colors, fold into a pouch that can easily fit in your coat pocket or purse. If your feet are worn out from a night of dancing in stilettos or you have an unexpectedly steep walk on a cobblestone street to get to your destination, you can just kick off your heels and slip these on. It’s a $20 solution that means you don’t have to spend a whole evening in frumpy footwear.
Band of the Free Sparrow ballet flat
The $50 sparrow ballet flats from Band of the Free are a no-brainer for traveling fashionistas on a budget. The silky flats are almost identical to real ballerina slippers and even come in a dusty rose color for those looking to take the balletcore trend to the next level. The soft-soled shoes offer little support, but they’re extremely packable and comfortable enough for a night out.
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