I think it’s safe to say that ballet flats aren’t going anywhere. It’s beloved by everyone, and is every wardrobe staple for a reason: it’s versatile, comfortable, and timeless. But it doesn’t have to be your only major flat. As the days get warmer and our dresses become more colorful and of varying hem lengths, it’s easy to pick out a pair of ballet flats and call it a day. But there’s a whole range of flats out there that have a lot to offer, especially if you want your spring wardrobe to feel interesting and purposeful.
Relying on ballet flats alone can feel one note, whereas a collection of flats that offer structure, contrast, texture or a hint of skin opens up far more styling possibilities. Some use polish to tailor or sharpen a floaty silhouette, while others bring a casual yet elevated ease to denim, linen and light layers. Having a few different options to go around means you can change up the core spring look with minimal effort.
So whether you’re refreshing your spring wardrobe or looking for flats that offer a different mood to your usual ballet flat styles, introducing some thoughtful alternatives can bring new life to the simplest of outfits. Scroll through to find our edit of flat styles worth adding to your collection this season.
5 alternatives to ballet flats for spring 2026
1. Flip-flop
Style Notes: If you’re looking to add another pair of flats to your collection for spring then this should be it. They’ve become much more than that flimsy pair you keep by the back door or wrap in your towel to wear poolside. They are minimalist, structured, elegant and very versatile. A A suede pair can serve as a smart addition to tailored trousers while a colorful pair adds interest and contrast to jeans.
Buy Flip-Flops:
For a subtle pop of color.
just a little
limited edition flat leather sandals
A sleek, neutral alternative to black.
The suede trend continues.
emme parsons
Meta Suede Thong Sandals
The perfect addition to light wash denim.
Improvement
Jessie Thong Sandals
Color blocking made easy.
2. Boat Shoes
Style Notes: These are a great way to add texture to a spring outfit. combined with suede The tassels, bows, pleats and stitching mean that boat shoes instantly have character and pair well with fabrics like linen and denim. As the trend continues to grow, we’re seeing styles offered beyond the classic suede tan boat shoe, with contrast leather, eyelets and ruffle details being added to the mix.
Buy Boat Shoes:
MS
suede lace up flat boat shoes
The light shade of suede is perfect for spring.
Mango
multicolored leather boat shoes
For lovers of all things preppy.
JW Anderson
fringed suede boat shoes
JW Anderson is all about the details.
massimo datti
Contrast Leather Deck Shoes
3. Jelly Shoes
Style Notes: If you thought the ’90s revival was dying out, it’s rising in popularity The Jelly Shoe is proof to the contrary. The buzz that started with The Row’s mesh jelly flats in summer 2024 has become a solid trend this season with designer, mid- and high-street brands offering their own interpretations. There are flip-flop styles and strappy sandal styles, but it’s the ballet-flat style silhouettes that have the most substance, working seamlessly with denim, dresses, skirts and even tailored black trousers. My advice is to lean towards kitsch and choose a bright red pair to wear with vintage washed straight leg jeans.
Buy Jelly Shoes:
store controller
Cut-Out Jelly Ballet Flats
Add a dark brown look for an eye-catching contrast.
john lewis
Sam Edelman Michaela Jelly Mary Jane Ballerina Pumps
anthropology
Dolce Vita Jam Jelly Flats
There wouldn’t be spring without pastels.
ancient greek sandals
Jelly Iro Ballet Flats
Turquoise is going to be everywhere this season.
free people
Nola Jelly Mary Janes
4. Loaf in comfort
Style Notes: Loafers have taken on a more casual look for spring, with minimal details, soft fabrics, thick soles and rounded toes. This gives them a sporty look, making them easy to style with off-duty looks like slouchy jeans, linen trousers. Bermuda shorts. With contrasting textures and white socks, style them like you would a trainer or clogs.
Shop Loafers:
Adidas
Handball Special Suede Loafers
birkenstock
naples wrapped suede leather
Loved by fashion editors.
jigsaw
soft suede moccasin loafers
5. Barefoot Shoes
Style Notes: A bit of a wild card, but barefoot shoes are everywhere right now. An extension of the Tabi trend, barefoot shoes take things down a sporty path, featuring both split-toe and five-toe silhouettes. The vibe of these shoes sits somewhere between ballet flats and the ‘ugly shoes’ trend, so when it comes to style it’s either a good idea to lean into the ugly side with exaggerated silhouettes like parachute pants and barrel legs, or lean into the ballet side with feminine skirts and dresses for a stylish contrast.
free people
V-Soul Fivefingers
merrell
Riley Tour Mary Jane
Add a black maxi skirt for a unique twist on the classic combo.
These would look great with barrel leg trousers.
Vivobarefoot
Motus Studio Ballet
From yoga to coffee with friends without changing your shoes.
