Athletic Ballet Flats Are Trending For 2024 - Our Favorite Ways To Wear Them

With the return of the Sporty Spice athletic fashion trend, we've seen so many staple clothing pieces get a sporty makeover. Our jackets have gone moto-inspired, our shorts are looking extra gym ready, It was only a matter of time until the athletic vibe merged with the ballet flats revival that started in 2023. This blend brought back a style you may remember from the early 2000s, known as athletic ballet flats or ballet sneakers.

But what exactly makes a ballet flat athletic? The big difference is that athletic flats have thicker soles and are made with more durable materials. Think leather and long-lasting plastics, rather than flimsy fabrics like satin or mesh. That's to ensure your foot is properly supported as you move around. Equally, classic ballet flats tend to be slip-ons, but the sporty versions usually have a strap, Velcro, or laces, so they won't go flying off as soon as you pick up the pace. So, now you're clear on exactly what makes an athletic ballet flat, we've got the details on how best to style them for any occasion. No actual sports required (thankfully).

Heading on vacation? Then grab your athletic ballet flats! A black pair with a dark athleisure two-piece, like a crop top and leggings, is the ideal travel outfit. The whole look is super comfortable and practical, which is ideal when you're doing a lot of sitting and walking. Plus, by opting for darker colors, the outfit is flattering and requires very little effort to put together. And (bonus!) dark colors can often hide any dirt you may accidentally rub up against on your travels.

To make your athletic ballet flats work for a special event, like a birthday party, pair them with a mini dress. Shoes with metallic accents are ideal. Not only is metallic versatile and a neutral, but the shine will make your outfit more event appropriate. Though all black could work (i.e. a black dress with black flats), we'd suggest staying away from the shade for an event. Black sporty flats can look a too casual, too monochrome, and too sneaker-esque, which may give the wrong impression if you're dressing up.

We're expecting athletic ballet flats to stick around for a while, so you'll need to know how to style them for autumn/winter. A cute white pair looks gorgeous with white tights or long socks and a flared midi-skirt. Add a white shirt, light calf-length skirt, and a jacket with a faux-fur trim for warmth. This is a stylish way to wear sporty flats without constantly relying on the classic, but basic, sweater and jeans combo in the cold. We love this look for a lunch date.

Black athletic ballet flats are perfect for a fun day of shopping or meeting up with friends when you know you'll be walking a lot. Grab a pair of chunky lace up flats for and team them with a black button down and lighter gingham skirt for a grungy, slouchy look. Shoes with extra bulk will play with your body's proportions and make you appear smaller. For an extra fashion edge, throw a pair of gray socks into the mix. They'll really help if you're prone to blisters, too!

You'd be forgiven for thinking athletic ballet flats won't work at night. But they can. To make the look perfect after dark, pair a streamline (so you're not drawing too much attention to them) white pair with on-trend cuffed jeans and an evening top. A black, lace crop shirt is a good choice, as it creates a dramatic juxtaposition against the athletic shoes to add elegance. This look is totally Y2K chic, and works for a trip to the movies or a few drinks with the girls.