20 Square Toe Ballet Flats That Have Our Stamp of Approval
Spring has sprung, and with it comes the perennial debate: what’s the go-to shoe for the season? While ballet flats have dipped in and out of the forefront of summer shoe trends, this year, they’re stealing the spotlight again. But for those with PTSD from the first time they reigned supreme in early 2000s, fear not. We’ve spotted a new iteration that feels grown up. Forget the traditional round toe—fashion insiders are swapping them out for a sleeker, more modern option: the square toe ballet flats. This unexpected twist on a classic silhouette has been slowly amassing a devoted following, and we’re hardly surprised.
But why this sudden shift to square toes? Well, for starters, they offer a refreshing—and hopefully more durable— update to the traditional ballet flat. No longer must we worry about the pale pink satin exterior when caught in April showers, or the scuffing that ensues from a single journey on the underground, because now we have leather options with this flatter toe shape. What’s more, they elongate the leg and provide a more structured look that feels more cool, less cutesy.
And it’s not just me that’s cottoned onto this, some of our favourite influencers are welcoming this style too. Shout out to Marilyn, who, (pictured below), shows how to make these shoes feel both French and fresh with a breton and thick stretchy jersey headband.
When it comes to styling these statement shoes, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re thinking of putting them with cropped denim mini or a flowy sundress, a dress is a no-brainer—in fact, I’d say there are few dress styles that won’t work with these flats. For a more evening look, may I suggest teaming them with a midi slip dress and a blazer?
If you’re more of a trouser person, pair with linen or cotton pants on warmer days, or your favourite denim for others (my tip would be to do a straight or wide-leg jean over skinny, otherwise this really will feel like 2004). But if you are someone who welcomes Y2K with open arms, look to brave one of 2024’s most controversial trends, the capri pant.
Whether you’re running errands or hitting the town and want a more comfortable footwear option than heels, square toe ballet flats are the perfect finishing touch to any outfit this spring and summer. Keep scrolling for the ones currently sitting in our virtual baskets.
Shop Square Toe Ballet Flats:
MAISON MARGIELA
Tabi Split-Toe Leather Ballet Flats
The flat that has divided the fashion world due to their split toe.
The Row
Eva Two Leather Ballet Flats
No other ballet flat can compare.
H&M
Mary Jane Ballet Pumps
Trist me, this will be the colour of the season.
Throwing in a mesh version too because why not.
mango
Satin Ballerinas With Buckle – Women
Did someone say pirouette?
AEYDE
Uma Leather Mary Jane Ballet Flats
We love a Mary Jane version too.
Le Monde Béryl
Luna Leather Slippers
I’m styling these with some staright jeans and a white T-shirt.
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN
Mamadrague Leather Ballet Flats
ALEXANDER MCQUEEN
Punk Embellished Leather Ballet Flats
The silver toe detailing is the best part.
AEYDE
Matti Leather Ballet Flats
A chocolate pair for your wardrobe.
I have the perfect outfit i mind for these flats—a denim maxi skirt and white tank!
Arket
Leather Ballet Flats
Simply put, they’re a classic.
JIMMY CHOO
Ade Embellished Suede Ballet Flats
I can’t stop thinking about this pearl pair.
mango
Square-Toe Braided Ballerinas
I just found summer’s go-to flats with this raffia par.
LE MONDE BERYL
Leather Mary Jane Ballet Flats
There’s something about nude shoes that scream spring.
JIL SANDER
Asymmetric Leather and Suede Ballet Flats
AMINA MUADDI
Ane Crystal-Embellished Satin Ballet Flats
A ballet flat… but a bit more ‘extra’?
mango
Square-Toe Leather Ballerinas
They speak for themselves, really.
AEYDE
Gabriella Satin Ballet Flats
If you dare to brave a satin pair, consider pale blue instead of the classic pink.
AMINA MUADDI
Ane Crystal-Embellished Metallic Suede Ballet Flats
A dressier flat for those special occasions.