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The It shoe we’ll always run back to.

It’s time to dust off your dancing shoes, because—believe it or not—this season is all about the ballet flat. The seemingly simple shoe has been on hiatus in recent years, but it’s officially returned as one of fall’s top shoe trends (although if you’re Kate Moss, you already know that it never really left). To help ease your hesitancies and navigate the ballet flat comeback, we’ve turned to professional stylist Desiree Guery to give you an insider’s assessment on what to look for and how to elevate this timeless shoe for 2022.

With designers reimagining the classic ballet flat in versions of leather, shearling, knit, and beyond, there’s no cap on ingenuity when it comes to styling this season’s picks. But this isn’t a trend that calls for you to compromise on comfort, either. “Why wear flats if they’re not comfortable and cute?” Guery asks. “There are so many ways to show off your personality with shoes, and ballet flats are a great way to do that...finding a pair that you can wear with jeans, pants, dresses, and skirts that look chic but are also comfortable is key.”

For most of us, we haven’t relied on the practicality of the ballet flat since the days when The O.C.’s Marissa Cooper gave us every pointed flat and then some. And considering we’ll no longer be styling them à la 2003, how can we give them a fresh take in 2022? “I’m really digging socks and tights with flats,” Guery offers. “I also really love to pair these with a slim pant and something a little more unexpected,” she says. Dip into a European aesthetic and swap your straight-fit jeans for ankle-length trousers or silk pants. Add a chunky sweater or oversized button-down for a smooth, effortless look that could only be inspired by a few days spent abroad.

Another new trend for fall flats? Pastels. While most of us associate pastels with spring and summer seasons, they’re making up the perfect transitional fall color palette this year. Not only is it a nice change of pace, but a soft green or purple hue can add a pop of color to any outfit. “Satins, velvets, and metallics are also big...giving ballet flats a modern twist on a classic style,” Guery adds. Below, we’ve rounded up every type of flat you could possibly hope for—from an Amazon bestseller to a next-gen designer slipper. Shop our all-encompassing list of the best ballet flats to fall for.

These world-renowned flats were originally designed for French film actress Brigitte Bardot in 1956, so they aren’t just a ballet flat—they're the ballet flat. Dubbed “a dance shoe for the city,” these ballerina flats are available in 35 different colors, so you can put your own style twist on a timeless classic.

Vegan fashion has entered the chat. These high-quality, pointed-toe flats are actually made with plants and bio oil sourced from organic crops, proving that you can help save Mother Earth and look high-fashion while doing it. Dress these down with your favorite straight-leg jeans, or add some “oomph” with an embellished mini skirt. And when you’ve seen these through to the end of their life cycle, you can send them back to the brand to have them recycled.

We saw this princessy, satin slipper dancing down the fall/winter runway, and now its time has come. These slip-on flats are already all the rage this season, beloved by celebrities and influencers alike. Adorned with a simple bow-tie and elastic Miu Miu band, you’ll feel like a complete prima ballerina.

Guery highlights this Mary Jane style as a great day-to-night shoe. “Velvet is so luxe, there isn’t a way you can’t wear it. This would be a good style to pair with a cute sock and dress,” she says. “I can picture a plaid skirt, chunky sweater, autumn leaves, and a big cup of coffee with this one!”

An abstract modern take on the ballet slipper, these canvas flats feature a square-toe silhouette and peek-a-boo cutout. With soft, flexible material, you won’t even need to worry about breaking them in. Just throw them on alongside your best dark wash denim, and you’re good to go.

We love a good Amazon find, and even more so when it’s as highly rated as this simple ballet flat. With a 4.3-star rating and almost 50,000 reviews, there’s no reason not to add a pair to your collection. Choose from 34 different colors and two widths: regular and wide.

Understandably, Guery loves this stellar black shearling flat. “It’s an elevated twist on the classic black flat,” she states. “Picture this with a slim black pant, a cool band tee and a slick oversized blazer.”

Pretty in pastels! Get a jump on the fall trend, and add an unexpected pop of color with this ballet slipper from Mango.

“A slingback ballet heel might sound tricky, but this is a flat even Carrie Bradshaw would approve,” Guery notes. “This is the date night shoe. This is the impress-the-boss shoe. There’s nothing this shoe can’t do, and it’s worth the price in comfort, versatility, and elegance.”

Rothy’s ballet flats are quickly becoming a cult favorite, and it’s easy to see why. Endlessly versatile, machine washable, and super comfortable (according to almost 20,000 reviews), it’s no wonder they’ve picked up such a following. And believe it or not, they’re knit from recycled plastic bottles. Style? Check. Sustainability? Check.

It’s all in the details. Effortlessly elegant, these pointed bow tie flats are just understated enough to make them a wardrobe staple you’ll reach for again and again.

One look at these flats lets you know they’re well worth the investment. As part of Herrera’s Initials Insignia collection, these mesh detailed flats feature a pointed toe and come adorned with three-dimensional initials inspired by the brand’s 35th-anniversary bracelet. Accessorize these with a pair of sheer black tights to elevate any look.

Tory Burch knows ballet flats. With constant, fresh styles and that iconic Double T, the brand hosts every flat you never knew you needed. This pear-colored slipper is unique in its delicate details, with a removable gold ankle chain and subverted Double T charm. A cushioned footbed means this flat is as comfortable as it is stylish.

These vegan suede flats may be as modern as ever, but their vintage style was inspired by the elegant ensembles of the ‘50s and ‘60s. Made from ultra-fine fibers, this material is breathable and soft to the touch, yet durable and easy to clean. Plus, unlike animal-based suede, this version is waterproof. What’s not to love?

A flat fit for the season. These satin cutouts from Badgley Mischka feature a crystal and pearl embellished band, giving you a bit of extra sparkle that's perfect for any and all holiday festivities.

Designed for a comfortable fit, these contoured flats feature a U-shaped topline, padded heel, and additional arch support to help you stay light on your feet. Choose from wide and regular widths for an even more customized fit.

“This metallic pink is the perfect example of an unexpected fall color,” says Guery. “This shoe could add color to any outfit. A pair of jeans and a simple sweater could easily be elevated with a metallic ballet shoe.”

This Mary Jane style flat fits perfectly into The Row’s arsenal of classic items and ready-to-wear separates. Take your pick from four earthy colors, and invest in sheer luxury that will stand the test of time.

Simple and straight to the point, these classic faux-leather flats are perfect for those who need an everyday style with a wider fit.