Trends come and go, but some pieces are forever. An example of such a piece? Chanel's oh-so elegant ballet flats. Debuted by Karl Lagerfeld in the designer's 1984 autumn/winter show, the simple ballerinas feel just as relevant today as they did the first time the world set eyes on them forty years ago.
It's easy to shrug high-end fashion off as extravagant and/or unwearable (we're looking at you, Balenciaga croc-heels), but these Chanel shoes—along with other timeless items such as the Hermès Birkin bag and Gucci's Horsebit loafers—prove it can be anything but. If you're in a position to make the investment (because let's face it: at around £800, these particular ballerinas cost a lot more than your average high-street pair), you'll be rewarded with a comfortable, long-lasting shoe that will go with just about everything you own. I really mean it—since the ballet flat renaissance of 2023, we've seen them styled with jeans, dresses, wide-leg trousers, mini skirts... the list goes on.
But if you're unsure where to start, the good news is I've come armed with seven inspirational outfits to share with you. Sourced from some of the best-dressed influencers out there, these effortless looks will no doubt convince you that Chanel ballet flats will slot seamlessly into your wardrobe.
1. Relaxed Tailoring + Shoulder Bag
Style Notes: Stick with the sophisticated feel of Chanel's ballet flats and team them with smart (but relaxed) tailoring. I love how Francesca has mixed a black blazer with cream trousers to keep things from straying into matchy-matchy territory.
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The newest addition to COS' blazer repertoire is just as chic as you'd expect.
Reformation's Mason pant has fast become our most-recommended style of trousers.
If I was buying Chanel ballet flats, I'd pick a two-tone pair.
2. Textured Maxi Dress + Pearl Necklace
Style Notes: You might say maxi dresses are the new midi, but I won't because I'm a midi dress loyalist. Even still, the ballerinas peeking out from under this long textured frock creates a look I can definitely get on board with.
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I bet you didn't know you needed a raffia dress until now.
Yep, pearl necklaces are officially cool.
Can't decide between patent and matte leather? You don't have to.
3. Colourful Cardigan + Ecru Denim
Style Notes: As a resident of the UK, I wear knitwear all through the year. If you're the same, take your cues from Emili and opt for a bright cardigan, styled with ecru denim to give it a summery spin. And of course, a lighter shade of the Chanel ballerina to round the look off.
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Such a sweet shade of pink for a summer's day.
This shape looks really flattering.
How fun is this sequin iteration?
4. Slip Dress + White Tee
Style Notes: We might sound like a broken record with how often we praise slip dresses, but they are SO versatile. I enjoy layering mine over a T-shirt for a more casual vibe, like Parisian influencer Anne-Laure. Speaking of Paris, you'll spot plenty of ballet flats on the feet of the French style-set.
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All of our editors recommend this tee.
Switch your ballet flats for strappy heels come evening.
If you're lucky, you might just find a preloved pair in your size on Vestiaire Collective. I'm crossing my fingers for you.
5. Tube Top + Wide-Leg Trousers
Style Notes: Dip your toe into the Y2K trend with a streamlined tube top. To make it 2023 appropriate, simply add your go-to wide-leg trousers (I'm favouring linen styles right now) and the Chanel shoe in question. Easy peasy.
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No pesky tan lines with this strapless basic.
I'm wearing these exact trousers as I type.
This tweed pair feels classic Chanel.
6. Full Skirt + Blazer
Style Notes: I think Marilyn's look might just be my favourite. There's something so elegant and yet effortless about her fully skirt, blazer, scrunchie and flats look.
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This comes in blazer and a lovely beige hue.
This skirt is part of COS's gorgeous new Atelier drop.
Featuring Chanel's signature quilting.
7. Bomber Jacket + Split-Hem Leggings
Style Notes: Sleek and minimal, this all-black outfit brings an unexpected edge to the ballerinas. See? I told you they go with everything. The split hem is a key detail to make this ensemble feel as modern as possible.
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For those cooler spring and summer days.
So affordable!
If bows aren't your thing, opt for a more pared-back iteration like this one.
Next Up: If You're Investing in One Pair of Sandals This Year, Make It These