The ballet sneaker trend may seem surprising, but it’s quickly becoming a wardrobe staple.
Still, thanks to its unique design, many shoppers wonder how to wear it without thinking twice. Celebrity stylist Samantha Brown, who trained under what-not-to-wear icon Stacey London, says the key is understanding why the trend works in the first place.
“It’s a combination of ballet flats and slim sneakers, which are all the rage these days,” Brown explains. “They have a more feminine feel than traditional sneakers, but still offer a comfortable feel.” Like many trends, ballet sneakers took a while to break into the mainstream after debuting at the designer level, she notes.
Brown advises that it’s best to style ballet sneakers with outfits that have a slightly “off” feel. You can make your shoes feel intentional by pairing them with more extreme contrasts: casual basics balanced with structured layers, or softer pieces offset by bolder elements. When it comes to denim, he cautions against overly loose silhouettes. “Baggy jeans can overpower your shoes,” she says, recommending a straighter cut for balance.
Another top styling tip? Don’t skimp on the details. Brown says textured or ribbed socks add visual interest and make ballet sneakers look thoughtfully styled.
Keep scrolling for more fashion advice from Samantha Brown on the popular ballet sneaker.
