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Ballet Flats, Mary Janes & Jelly Flats I Actually Wear (and Would Buy Again)

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Flat shoes are having a major moment right now and honestly I'm obsessed. I've spent way too much time testing ballet flats, Mary Jane styles, and jelly flats so you don't have to. These are the ones that are actually comfortable, actually cute, and ...
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Classic Ballet Flats

The ones I keep reaching for. A good ballet flat should work with jeans, a midi skirt, and everything in between without you thinking about it twice.

 
Sophie Marini profile picture
Square toe, slingback strap, under $80 — this is the shape that's everywhere right now and honestly for good reason. It looks more expensive than it is and fits true to size. I wear mine with wide-leg trousers and linen sets constantly.
Sam Edelman Alie Ballet Flat (Women) - Nordstrom
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Sophie Marini profile picture
Crisscross straps and a tiny bow detail make this feel more intentional than your average ballet flat. Around $80 with free Nordstrom returns, which means there's no excuse not to try them. True to size, easy to style, and I've gotten more compliment...
Circus NY by Sam Edelman Zuri Ballet Flat (Women) - Nordstrom
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Sophie Marini profile picture
One of the most-reviewed ballet flats on Amazon for a reason. Under $50, breaks in fast, and holds up. This is the “buy it in two colors” flat. If you're new to wearing ballet flats all day, start here.
Lucky Brand Emmie 2
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Sophie Marini profile picture
The investment pick. Clean leather, minimal toe, nothing extra — just a really well-made flat that looks sharp with everything from tailored pants to a sundress. Worth it if you want something that lasts more than one season.
Relan Black Leather Ballet Flats | Dolce Vita
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Mary Jane Styles

A strap changes everything. Mary Janes give a ballet flat a little more personality without trying too hard — and they're having a serious moment right now.

 
Sophie Marini profile picture
This is the crossover shoe — Mary Jane shape, jelly material, and it comes in the softest blue I've ever seen on a shoe. Style editors have been talking about this one all spring and I completely understand why. Comfortable, unique, and under $100.
Sam Edelman Michaela Jelly Mary Jane Flat (Women) - Nordstrom
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Sophie Marini profile picture
If you're leaning into the green color trend for summer, this is your shoe. Classic Mary Jane silhouette with an adjustable strap so it actually fits properly. Shoppers consistently say they're more comfortable than they look, which is all I need to ...
DKNY Womens Louey Mary Jane Jelly Ballet Flat
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Sophie Marini profile picture
I was skeptical and then I tried them. The Mary Jane sneaker is the hybrid shoe of the moment — strap detail on top, cushioned sneaker sole underneath. Perfect for days when you want to look put together but you're also going to walk six miles. Pairs...
Samba Jane | adidas US
 
Sophie Marini profile picture
The splurge pick and worth every penny if this is your aesthetic. Jeffrey Campbell has been doing the strappy, elevated Mary Jane better than almost anyone. This is the one you wear when you want people to ask about your shoes.
Marcie Mary Jane in Black
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Jelly Flats

Yes, jelly shoes are back. And no, they don't look like the ones from 2003. These are the ones actually worth buying — comfortable, stylish, and most of them under $50.

 
Sophie Marini profile picture
The collab that started the whole jelly conversation this summer. Madewell teamed up with Melissa — the original jelly brand — for a clean, barely-there silhouette in five colors. If you want one jelly shoe that works with everything, this is it. Sim...
Madewell x Melissa Jelly Thong Sandal
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Sophie Marini profile picture
A bestseller at Revolve right now, and once you see it in person you'll understand why. A little heel, a lot of personality. This is the jelly shoe for someone who wants to make more of a statement. Great with a linen set or a summer dress.
Gummy Thong Sandal in Light Blue
 
Sophie Marini profile picture
Woven caged design, square toe, subtle heel — this is the more modern take on the trend. Comes in four colors including a really good pastel pink. It reads more elevated than a traditional jelly shoe, which I appreciate. Runs true to size.
Steve Madden Grove Jelly Flat - Tan
 
Sophie Marini profile picture
I was the person saying “jelly shoes will never be comfortable” and then I tried these. Soft, flexible, cushioned insole — genuinely comfortable even on longer days. The matte finish keeps them from looking too costume-y. One note: size up if you're ...
Jeffrey Campbell Bestie Jelly Flat (Women) | Nordstromrack
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Sophie Marini profile picture
The “try the trend without committing” buy. Under $35, comes in neutrals and fun colors, and the reviews are solid. If you're not sure jelly shoes are for you, start here before spending $100+ on another pair. Available in pink, clear, and a few neut...
Jelly Mesh Ballet Flats - Budget Find (Under $35)
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