Take a step back, chunky sneakers and baggy hoodies—there's a new face taking a step back into the limelight. Ballet slippers demurely have held center stage in 2025, giving a fresh spin to today's '90s trend of fashion. The little yet highly functional shoes that once stayed locked away in the studio are now taken over from street corners to the catwalks of haute couture. But why are they winning hearts and wardrobes anew?

In this article, we'll discuss how ballet shoes pirouetted onto the dance floor and into the limelight, how they're perfectly positioned to capitalize on the fashion of the day, and how you can ease them into your wardrobe.

Ballet slippers did not just magically occur overnight-they are a staple in a fashion wardrobe with a rich history behind them. It was Italian fashion designer Rose Repetto who created them. She initially made ballet flats herself for her son, a professional dancer, so he could dance fashionably as well as comfortably. They were spotted by Brigitte Bardot, who asked that a pair be worn by her on her 1956 film And God Created Woman. The film became a success, and the hip, free-spirited style of the shoes on Bardot made ballet flats a fashion essential among women everywhere.

Prior to this, ballet flats already graced the feet of style icons of previous decades. Audrey Hepburn sported them in Funny Face, and Jackie Kennedy and Princess Diana were also frequently seen wearing flats, which made them appear relaxed yet poised.

By the '90s, ballet slippers were trendy staples, and were on the feet of "It girls" and regular fashionistas alike. Their comfort and ease made them ideal for wearing with everything from jeans to dresses, and that enduring charm has something to do with why the '90s look is so trendy all over again today.

Ballet shoes are actually back, and it's not hard to see why. Fashion now is all about comfort, convenience, and effortless style—and these shoes deliver on all fronts. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have brought them back in the limelight, and celebrities and influencers are raving about them just how effortlessly they can dress up a basic outfit.

From everyday street fashion to dressy street fashion, ballet slippers are showing you can have style without sacrificing comfort.

Designers are putting ballet slippers on new fresh faces to make them appear trendy. Imagine soft vegan leathers, eco-friendly materials, bold colors, and even metallic or striped finishes. Luxe and eco-friendly options make them desirable to a wide range of consumers, and whimsical details ensure that they are still enjoyable. Now, they're worn with everything from boyfriend jeans to midi skirts, proving how far they've come. If you require advice on how to choose a pair that is perfectly attuned to your style, keep reading this guide to choosing the perfect lady slippers.

Ballet slippers aren’t just cute—they’re practical too. Lightweight, breathable designs make them comfortable for all-day wear, whether you’re running errands, working from home, or just out for a walk. Unlike bulkier shoes, they move naturally with your feet and give a polished look without any fuss. For advice on picking a pair that works in every season, take a look at this seasonal slipper guide.

No surprises: social media has been a major factor in making ballet shoes popular again. Celebrities and influencers are wearing them with everything from upscale jeans to trendy skirts, dressing them up to look cool and fresh again. Seeing how the professionals do it makes everyone else want to emulate it.

One of the reasons ballet shoes have been so on-trend again is because they're just so unobtrusive. The subtle colors, clean lines, and timeless silhouettes are such that they pair with just about anything. They're the ideal option if you'd like shoes to look effortlessly cool, timeless, and sophisticated without being too showy.

Ballet slippers are more than a nostalgic flashback—they're incredibly versatile for modern living. It's a simple day out, a sort-of formal occasion, or a subtle, fashion-conscious look, these shoes can easily finish off your look.

For casual wear, ballet flats look best with cropped jeans, high-waist pants, or soft legging. An oversized sweater or plain tee is a quick way to achieve a relaxed look, but adding a structured bag or dainty jewelry adds sophistication. Neutral or pastel-colored slippers can bring in a sense of polish into casual wear without appearing made-up.

Ballet flats are also perfect for formal events. Match them with midi skirts, fitted trousers, or dresses for a corporate yet stylish look. Go for sleek styles made of suede or leather, and experiment with delicate patterns or metallic colors to take center stage. Top with a neutral jacket or loose cardigan.

To give an updated, trendy spin, combine old and new. Go for 1990s-style slip dresses, wide-legs pants, or pleated skirts with ballet flats to create a new, retro look. Complete the look with accessories such as layered necklaces, headbands, or crossbody bags to function as the crowning glory, adding playfulness without seeming contrived.

The secret to styling ballet shoes in 2025 is balance. Pair vintage pieces—such as a slip dress or a puffed-sleeve top—with modern shapes and fabrics to make the look feel modern. Play around with proportions, textures, and color so that the slippers become part of your overall look and not an afterthought.

Slip-on ballets have actually come a long way—from closet essentials of '90s fashion to modern closet must-haves. The eternal loveliness, comfort, and usability of ballet slippers make them appropriate for casual wear, semi-formal events, or stylish, everyday wear. With so many varying styles, colors, and materials that are found today, a person can definitely find a pair that is perfect to match any taste and style.