Product of the week: The ballerinas

What is it:

“Balletcore” is a TikTok trend that has been circulating on the social media platform since 2022 and is based on the training clothing of ballet dancers. One piece that has stood out among the extravagant tutus and skin-tight bodies are the ballerinas. The classic shoe is receiving new attention thanks to the trend and is being modernized with subtle updates. The look is being relaunched for trend-conscious consumers in a more comfortable form, with new materials and design details such as buckles.

Why you should order them:

Many of modern social media trends are so-called microtrends due to their fast pace and short duration. However, the “balletcore” and its ballerinas have been persistent for some time and will continue to influence the designs on the catwalks, as a look at the collections for the spring/summer 2024 season proves. The ballerinas were integrated there by numerous designers. The models have been updated with practical elements such as straps and more robust materials to make them more practical for everyday use and appeal to a wider audience.

Where we saw them:

The flat ballerinas were ubiquitous on the SS24 runways and featured in numerous collections as Must have-Shoes presented. Glittery or metallic versions were among the most popular designs, seen in a variety of materials at Simone Rocha, Paloma Wool, Loewe and Sandy Liang. But eye-catching details and embellishments also appeared on the catwalks. Vivienne Westwood and Erdem showed ballerinas with oversized bows. At Erdem, the bow towered over the shoe, creating a new silhouette. Fendi, Tove and Chanel, on the other hand, showed simpler models that are more reminiscent of traditional dancing shoes.

How to style them:

The combination possibilities for ballet flats are seemingly endless, as the shoe falls into both casual and formal wear categories. In everyday life, the shoes can be combined with simple, tailored trousers and a knitted vest or a skirt with a cardigan. The shoes can also be worn with midi or maxi dresses for a spring-like look. Dresses with bold patterns and embellishments or textured materials balance out the flat soles and minimalist look of the shoes. Accessories in different colors give the look additional pizzazz.

Ballerinas have caught on outside of the professional dance world and have enjoyed continued popularity for two seasons and continue to dominate the runways. The comfortable footwear moves seamlessly between different clothing categories and is a smart addition to any wardrobe.

This translated post previously appeared on FashionUnited.uk. Translation and editing: Pia Schulz