After what feels like aeons (in fashion years) of revivals, reimaginings and restyles of the ballet slipper, a new iteration has captured our attention. Just when we thought we’d exhausted every version out there, from classic satin and gauzy mesh to decked with leg climbing leather buckles, the trainer-inspired ballet shoe has stepped into the spotlight. And this hybrid is on track to be this season’s biggest footwear trend.
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Recent releases have left us pondering: is it a trainer, or is it a ballet flat? Well, it’s both. Two of our trusted spring footwear favourites have collided, resulting in a Frankenstein-esque shoe beloved by sneakerheads and coquette-core girlies alike. The appeal of the hybrid ballet trainer lies in its practicality and playfulness; it’s cooky but cool. The perfect way to give the historically ‘girly’ shoe a tougher, more grounded edge.
Of course, it’s not the first time we’ve seen the divisive shoe. Simone Rocha first let towering satin ballet trainers stomp down her runway for spring summer 2021, while Cecilie Bahnsen partnered with Asics for spring/summer 2022 to create an ultra-feminine yet functional take, but the contemporary versions offer something that feels practical enough to integrate into every wardrobe.
The options are endless. Some borrow from the sporty structure of a sneaker but remain decisively flat and close to the ground. Others forego traditional tongues and laces, opting instead for Mary Jane straps and delicate lace-up details – some even fashioned from satin ribbons.
At Copenhagen Fashion Week, Puma showcased its new ballet flat version of the cult-favorite Speedcat on the OperaSport runway. Worn by models in dusty baby pink, classic black and metallic silver, the double-strap Speedcat Ballet has already gained a fan in Dua Lipa, who recently sported the pair on Instagram.
Meanwhile, Onitsuka Tiger teamed up with French brand Patou late last year for a charming collaboration inspired by childhood nostalgia. The best-selling piece from the collection? A remodel of the classic Mexico 66 that was positively en pointe.
In Ecco’s spring-summer 2025 campaign, eternal cool-girl Chloë Sevigny modelled a pair of the brand’s new lace-up sneaker ballet flats. This version wraps around the foot with a lattice of laces but boasts a chunkier, sportier sole – actually suitable for off-roading. We’d recommend styling these with a colourful sock or tight for added fun.
Bella Hadid and Amelia Gray Hamlin are in on the trend too, both seen wearing Vivaia’s satin Cristina flats while out in Paris over the past couple of weeks. According to the brand, since the shoe’s launch last month, it has been restocked three times due to overwhelming demand. The shoe itself folds up, so it’s also super handbag-friendly for days spent on your feet.
The trend has also witnessed high fashion endorsement. Louis Vuitton is dubbing its version the ‘Sneakerina’. A more subtle take on the trend, the slim trainers (dropping on April 11th) come in every trending combination, from velvet-effect and metallic leather to glittering sequin embroidery and mesh.
Miu Miu, known for its mastery of ballet-inspired styles, has introduced the Gymnasium ballerinas. These shoes feature all the hallmarks of a classic sporty sneaker – technical fabrics, colorful stripes and a rubber sole – yet they’ve been reimagined with a logo-stitched Mary Jane strap, no laces and a sleek slip-on silhouette.
How to style the ballet trainer hybrid shoe
Not sure how to work this trend into your wardrobe? The versatility of these shoes makes them easy to style. For an off-duty look, pair a sleek leather or mesh version with a baggy jean and an oversized blazer. If you’re leaning into the ballet-core aesthetic, opt for lace-up styles with sheer tights, a pleated skirt and a cropped cardigan. And for those who err on the side of sportswear, chunky, rubber-soled ballet trainers look great with tracksuit bottoms and a fitted vest top. Whichever way you style yours, one thing is certain: this is the shoe to watch (and wear) this spring.
The best hybrid ballet trainers to shop now
Ecco Biom Lite W Outdoor Trainer
Puma Speedcat Ballet Suede Shoes
Miu Miu Gymnasium Technical Fabric Ballerinas
Vivaia Cristina Lace-Up Derby Flats
Hermès Kichu Ballet Flats
Onitsuka Tiger. Mexico 66 TGRS
Now 97% Off
Ralph Lauren The Suede Pony Ballerina Trainer
Erika Topstitching lace-up ballet Flats- Silver
Now 14% Off
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