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E! News Illustration / Intentionally Blank
The ballet sneaker trend may look unexpected, but it’s quickly becoming a wardrobe staple.
Still, thanks to its unique design, many shoppers are left wondering how to wear it without overthinking. Celebrity stylist Samantha Brown, who trained under What Not to Wear icon Stacy London, says the key is understanding why the trend works in the first place.
“They’re a mix of ballet flats and slimmer sneakers, which have both been dominant recently,” Brown explains. “They offer comfort while still feeling more feminine than traditional sneakers.” Like many trends, she notes, ballet sneakers took time to reach the mainstream after debuting at the designer level.
Brown advises styling ballet sneakers with outfits that feel slightly “off” in the best way. Pairing them with more extreme contrasts—casual basics balanced with structured layers or softer pieces offset by bolder elements—helps the shoe feel intentional. When denim is involved, she warns against overly loose silhouettes. “A baggier jean can overpower the shoe,” she says, recommending straighter cuts for balance.
Another major styling tip? Don’t skip the details. Brown mentions that textured or ribbed socks add visual interest and make the ballet sneaker look thoughtfully styled.
Keep scrolling for more fashion advice from Samantha Brown on the beloved ballet sneaker:
Best Accessories for Ballet Sneakers
Stylist Tip: "Interesting and textured socks will uplevel the ballet sneaker look, making it even more fashion-forward."
By Anthropologie Pointelle Trouser Socks, Set of 2
Delicate details like pointelle socks and ballet sneakers naturally complement each other, and the two included colorways make it easy to switch up the look.
Bombas Women's Ruffle Lace Quarter Socks
The lace detailing on these Bombas socks gives ballet sneakers a vintage ballerina feel, and it’s easy to see these becoming a go-to pairing all spring and summer.
Best Ballet Sneaker Pairings
Stylist Tip: "I love these Vivaia ballet sneakers styled back to the Roxi Shaping Dress by Miraclesuit. Both pieces are so feminine and versatile, and the pairing is perfect for an elevated casual look," says Brown. She continues, "I would also style these Intentionally Blank sneakers back to the Mirasculpt Slim Pant, and layer them with a hoodie and blazer."
Vivaia Square-Toe Lace-Up Satin Sneakerina (Cristina)
This softer take on the ballet sneaker makes it easy to pair with almost any outfit, while the silk-like laces nod to classic ballet inspiration and give the shoe a refined finish.
Miraclesuit Roxi Shaping Dress in Black
Ballet sneakers bring a ballerina-inspired twist to the Roxi shaping dress, while a classic black silhouette keeps the look timeless.
Intentionally Blank Sporty Ballet Sneakers
Celebrity stylist Samantha Brown calls these a standout for their sport-forward look, effortless slip-on wear, and comfortable feel. Choose from a Pink or Mercury colorway.
Miraclesuit Mirasculpt Slim Pant
Just imagine how chic these business-casual pants look paired with statement ballet sneakers—the fabric smooths and sculpts in all the right places.
Best Jeans for Ballet Sneakers
Stylist Tip: "Pairing ballet sneakers with denim depends a lot on the proportions of the wearer. A loose-fitting jean can swallow the shoe, so I'd recommend a more fitted top with them. A slimmer cut stove pipe will be more universally flattering when paired with a ballet sneaker. "
Madewell High-Rise Stovepipe Jeans
Skip baggy styles and opt for more tailored cuts like stovepipe jeans, which balance the shoe perfectly while keeping comfort in check.
Old Navy High-Waisted Vintage Slim Jeans
Cigarette jeans keep the look streamlined and chic with ballet sneakers. Bonus: you can snag a pair from Old Navy for only $30.
More Ballet Sneakers:
Puma Speedcat Go Ballet Sneakers
The Speedcat Go takes its cues from the OG racing icon, then adds a flirty, ballet-inspired twist. The suede and mesh uppers with cut-out lacing make them feel lighter, airier, and totally ready for all-day wear.
adidas Taekwondo Mei Shoes
This is the adidas shoe that started the trend, and it keeps selling out like clockwork. Snag your size while you can and pick your favorite version—tie-up or flat lace.
adidas Women's Barreda Mary Jane Sneaker
Adidas continues its reign as the cool-girl sneaker brand with the Barreda Mary Janes that you will absolutely justify buying. They’re way more supportive than delicate ballet flats, and reviewers love that the crisscross straps keep them perfectly in place.
SEQWL Lace Up Detail Ballet Inspired Sneakers in Black
For a wallet-friendly pick, these ASOS ballet sneakers deliver the same ballet-sneaker energy as the viral Puma styles, plus three neutral colorways to choose from.
Skinny jeans are making a comeback! Shop the denim trend that’s everywhere now.
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