After the ankle pain they caused those of us who wore them endlessly throughout the 2000s, you would think we’d be over and done with ballet shoes, but if the balletcore trend is anything to go by, it's that they’re back with a vengeance. And tbh, when they’re as chic as the designs being released these days, we don’t mind giving ballerinas another go.
If you’re looking for a pair of ballet shoes that are anything but ordinary, we know just the pair to add to your wardrobe. Loved by celebrities, influencers, and fashion editors alike, the ballet flats made by the esteemed French house Alaïa are on everyone’s fashion wishlist this year—and it’s bound to be on yours, too!
What Are the Alaia "La Ballerine" Ballet Flats?
First launched in May 2022, the Alaïa ballet flats, inspired by classical Japanese shoes, are a unique mix of Mary Janes and traditional ballet flats. Featuring a single strap and oval toe, these shoes, also known as La Ballerine flats, have become a consistent sell-out success. The most popular versions, the mesh and sparkly leather, are frequently spotted at fashion week, adding a touch of elegance and sparkle to various ensembles.
Because of their popularity, Alaïa made its debut in the top 20 on Lyst Index’s first quarterly report of 2024. This was accompanied by a 49% increase in searches, fueled by the frequently sold-out La Ballerines, ranking as the fourth most popular product in the index during the first quarter.
How to Style Alaia La Ballerine Ballet Flats?
The ballet flats can be styled in various ways to suit different occasions and looks. For a casual chic look, pair your Alaïa ballet flats with high-waisted jeans and a tucked-in blouse, creating a polished yet relaxed ensemble perfect for brunch or a day of shopping.
Contrary to popular belief, a sophisticated office outfit doesn't always require wearing a pair of heels. Swap your heels for a pair of ballet flats and wear them with tailored trousers and a crisp white shirt, adding a blazer to elevate the look and maintain a professional appearance.
If you want to achieve an effortless yet elegant look, combine your flats with a midi skirt and a sweater. Perfect for a casual dinner date or afternoon tea, offering both comfort and style.
Then on weekends, style your flats with a pair of shorts and a loose, button-down top, for a laid-back look that's perfect for walks at the park or a casual gathering with friends.
And yes, they're also perfectly acceptable for an evening glam look. Opt for the sparkly leather flats and pair it with a black dress. The shimmer of the shoes adds a touch of glamour, making you stand out without the need for high heels.
By incorporating these styling tips, you can effortlessly integrate Alaïa ballet flats into your wardrobe, enhancing your outfits with their chic and versatile design.
Filipina Style Stars Wearing Alaia La Ballerine Ballet Flats
Need more style ideas? See how these local celebs styled their pair of Alaïa ballet flats below.
1. Anne Curtis
A ballet flat is a staple in any wardrobe, and Anne surely thinks so. She did get herself not just one but four pairs of the fishnet ballet flats in different colors, after all. Perfect for every outfit!
Last Christmas, Anne threw a garden-themed party where she wore a black Saint Laurent cutout dress paired with black Alaïa fishnet ballet flats.
2. Pia Wurtzbach
While touring the Vatican City, Pia sauntered in a pair of crystal-studded Alaïa flats. It was just the pair she needed to elevate her simple yet chic summer ‘fit.
3. Jinkee Pacquiao
Dressed in her Sunday best, Jinkee Pacquaio went for an all-white ensemble contrasted by a brown belt and a suede Birkin bag. Clearly in favor of the white pairs, she couldn't help but get herself two.
4. Angelique Manto
Dress it up or dress it down, the ballet flats are one of the easiest pairs of shoes to match with any outfit. Case in point: Angelique Manto paired her crystal ballet flats with a button-down and denim maxi skirt. Adding to her subtle sophistication is a Gucci Jackie shoulder bag in white leather.
5. Kathryn Bernardo
Kathryn Bernardo teams her white fishnet ballet flats with red gingham trousers and a white halter top for an easily polished off-duty 'fit.
6. Gabbi Garcia
Clad in a relaxed white tee and black tennis skirt, Gabbi Garcia completes her casual look with a pair of La Ballerine flats in the white, perforated iteration.
7. Sofia Andres
Sofia Andres lounges by the gloomy San Diego beachfront dressed in a cozy, earth-toned ensemble. Sporting an oversized, moss green wool coat, a beige Bottega Veneta Sardine bag, light-wash jeans, the actress adds a glint of shimmer through a pair of crystal-embellished La Ballerine flats.
8. Vania Romoff
The La Ballerine's also make for a stylish pair of concert shoes, and this outfit on Vania Romoff is all the proof you need. At the Eras Tour in Switzerland, the fashion designer styles the black fishnet ballerinas with a silver, fully sequined skirt and a black bandeau top, matched with a chic blazer as a cover-up.
9. Bea Soriano-Dee
Ever the fashionista, Sunnies co-founder Bea Soriano-Dee plays around with texture by matching her perforated La Ballerine flats with floral laced tights.
How Much Are Alaia La Ballerine Ballet Flats?
The price of the Alaïa Ballet Flats differs depending on its material and design. The popular fishnet flats cost $860, while the crystal-embellished strass lambskin ballet flats cost $1,240.
Below, see a list of the different styles of ballet flats currently available from the brand along with their prices. Shop away!
Ballet Flats in Laminated Fishnet, $990 (approx. P56,903.22), ALAÏA, maison-alaia.com
Ballet Flats Jewel in Fishnet, $1360 (approx. P79,952), ALAÏA, maison-alaia.com
Fishnet High Ballet Flats in Gold, $1190 (approx. P69,958), ALAÏA, maison-alaia.com
Ballet Flats in Fishnet, $890 (approx. P51,155.42), ALAÏA, maison-alaia.com
Fishnet High Ballet Flats in Black, $1110 (approx. P63,800.58), ALAÏA, maison-alaia.com
High Ballet Flats in Strass Lambskin, $1860 (approx. P106,909.08), ALAÏA, maison-alaia.com
Strass Lambskin Ballet Flats, $1310 (approx. P75,296.18), ALAÏA, maison-alaia.com
Criss Cross Ballet Flats in Patent Calfskin, $990 (approx. P58,201), ALAÏA, maison-alaia.com
Ballet Flats in Vienne Lambskin, $1140 (approx. P65,524.92), ALAÏA, maison-alaia.com
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