Slingback Ballet Flats Are the Elevated Summer Shoe Trend—And Zara Has a Chic Pair for $56

Zara Velvet Effect Slingback Ballet Flats

2026 has proved that the humble ballet flat has evolved far beyond its prim beginnings. From woven styles that add texture and personality to even the simplest outfit, to sleek glove flats that feel quietly luxurious, there are more iterations of the classic pump than ever before, confirming it has hit its sartorial stride.

That said, with summer in full swing and sandal season officially upon us, it can be easy to overlook the fail-safe flat. But amongst this season's shoe trends, ballet flats still have a firm place in a warm-weather wardrobe, particularly when it comes to one style that feels especially right for now: the slingback ballet flat.

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Moritz Scholz//Getty Images

Bridging the gap between a shoe and a sandal, the slingback ballet flat offers the best of both worlds. Your toes remain covered—ideal for anyone not quite ready to bare their feet beyond the beach—while the open heel keeps things light, breathable, and seasonally appropriate, with just a strap (sometimes buckled) wrapping around the back of your ankle to ensure your shoe stays firmly in place. It’s polished without feeling too frumpy, practical without looking overly sensible, and trend-led enough to make even the most minimal ensemble stand out.

Pair them with jeans and a tee for an elevated touch, or midi skirts and summer dresses when you want something more substantial than a sandal but less formal than a loafer.

Edward Berthelot//Getty Images

Moritz Scholz//Getty Images

When it comes to shopping this trend, I’ve seen plenty of stylish options, but this pair from Zara completely stopped me in my tracks. I love the velvet design, which gives them a refined feel that I haven’t really seen in other styles, while the classic bow detail adds a dainty touch. And at just $55.90, I can’t help but love them even more.

Zara Velvet Effect Slingback Ballet Flats$56ZARACredit: Zara

Shop more of my favorite slingback ballet flats here:

Dolce Vita Grifan Flats Natural Black Linen

Dolce Vita Grifan Flats Natural Black Linen$90dolcevita.comAbercrombie & Fitch Slingback Flats

Abercrombie & Fitch Slingback Flats$80AbercrombieCredit: Abercrombie & FitchCharles & Keith Satin Crossover Slingback Ballet Flats - Light Pink

Charles & Keith Satin Crossover Slingback Ballet Flats - Light Pink$76Charles KeithMaeve Mesh Slingback Flats

Maeve Mesh Slingback Flats$168AnthropologieVivaia Pointed-Toe Slingback (Maville)

Vivaia Pointed-Toe Slingback (Maville)$149vivaia.comRothy's The Almond Slingback in Lollipop Red

Rothy's The Almond Slingback in Lollipop Red$139Rothy'sLarroudé Georgina Milanina Ballet Flat In Beige Raffia

Larroudé Georgina Milanina Ballet Flat In Beige Raffia$330larroude.comFrom: Cosmopolitan UK

Alexandria DaleDigital Fashion Writer

Alexandria Dale is the Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. Covering everything from the celebrity style moments worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there’s nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she’s passionate about sustainable fashion and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications including Glamour and Ok!