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Ballerina-style flats aren’t always associated with comfort, but these darling pairs beg to differ.

As a shopping editor with over a decade of experience working in journalism and digital media, I cover everything from beauty and fashion to home, travel, gaming, and pets, and I'm constantly saving interesting products on TikTok (in *very* organized folders, mind you) to share with BuzzFeed readers.

Endlessly versatile and delightfully adorable, ballet flats have been a fashion staple for decades, but they're trendier than ever right now, evolving to include everything from fun mesh and jelly styles to embellished options and the much-talked-about split-toe design. And while ballet flats aren't typically what comes to mind when you think about a comfortable shoe, it's no longer the case that you *have* to expect pinching, rubbing, and soreness when you slip them on. These adorable pairs across a range of budgets deliver in both the comfort and style departments — so whether you hate wearing heels or just want a new pair of flats that won't fall apart on you after a few months, these ballerina-style flats are ready to support and delight you. 

Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women's.

Some dressy round-toe flats in the classic style with little bows that'll make you feel like a ballerina — well, one who has to head to their 9-to-5 office job instead of a dance studio. It has a sponge-y lining and a thicker insole that adds a bit of support, and reviewers say they're perfect for wide feet! Plus, they come in all sorts of styles like metallic gold and silver, quilted patterns, and faux suede in cozy shades like brown, olive green, and wine red. What I'm saying is you have ~options~ and at this price, you don't have to feel bad about snagging more than one pair.

Promising review: "This is my second purchase of these comfortable shoes that are perfect for someone with a wide toe box due to bunions. It completely and comfortably covers that area without rubbing or chafing. Dressy but also perfect for casual wear. Wipes clean." —Judy Bullock

Get them from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes 6–11 and 16 colors/prints). 

Some Mary Jane flats with a J.Crew or Reformation look but an Amazon Essentials price tag. They have a padded memory foam insole, nonslip sole, and cozy velvet upper — you'd never guess they're 20 bucks. 

Promising reviews: "Great [swap for] the Reformation flats for a fraction of the price! They are so comfortable and provide great arch support." —Danielle mishin

"This is the second pair I purchased. I also have the pink; the colors and quality of the velvet are truly amazing for the price, and it has that soft padding with some cushion. Inserts would be easy to use with these shoes. The fit is comfortable. No rubbing, no blisters, and, because they are velvet fabric, there is a slight stretch, but not too loose either." —MG

Get it from Amazon for $20.50 (available in sizes 5–13 and six styles).

Cutie-pie mesh flats that come in a variety of whimsical styles, including options with straps and bow ties if you're seeking a little extra assurance that your feet won't slip out when running to catch the bus. 

Promising review: "I bought these shoes for a European holiday. I thought they were so cute, but they turned out to be soooo comfortable as well. I wore these shoes in Rome and walked 8.62 miles. I wore them in Lisbon and walked about 5 miles. Not only did I receive several compliments on the shoes, but my feet never hurt. I have flat feet, so finding shoes that look good and, most importantly, feel good is often challenging. These shoes do both. I ordered two more pairs." —Kristi C.

Get them from Amazon for $27.99+ (available in sizes 5.5–13 and dozens of styles).

Elegant square-toe flats that'll make you feel oh-so-chic whether you throw them on with a flowy skirt or faded jeans. They come in a bunch of styles like black faux leather, leopard faux fur, and even a darling cow print, if you love a little ~yee-haw~ style moment.

Promising review: "I absolutely LOVE these shoes! I have four pairs in different colors. The upper material is so soft. I love the suede-like material. The square toe box leaves lots of wiggle room and doesn’t squish my toes. They are so cute. They really add character to a casual outfit and dress it up. I did add a thin cushioned sole pad. They’re just SO CUTE!!!!" —Carmen

Get them from Amazon for $31.98+ (available in sizes 5–12 and 27 styles). 

Some water-friendly ballet-style jellies, because this nostalgic style from the '80s and '90s is back in a big way — but with comfort upgrades. They're lightweight, soft, and actually have cushioning, so you can wear them right out of the package without bracing yourself for a world of pain by the end of the day.

If you typically wear a half size, it's recommended to size down to the next whole size (so if you're a 7.5, order a 7). 

Promising review: "Okay, I’m an '80s baby. Jellies from my childhood were adorable but they weren’t comfortable and somehow whoever designed them made the bottoms able to catch every tiny rock or pebble on the ground. But let’s talk about these Cushionaires though!!!! Two words — GET THEM! Not only are they nostalgic, but this brand has a way of making you feel like you’re walking on a mattress! I absolutely love them; so much so that I ordered the smoke, tortoise, AND the nude-looking color. Now, I’m 10 again with no rocks and pebbles and no back pain because I’m walking in a nice shoe!" —HunnyBee850

Get them from Amazon for $39.99 (available in sizes 6–11 and seven colors). 

Fishnet-style mesh flats, a trendy, breathable style mimicking pairs that go for hundreds of dollars at designer stores. This budget-friendly pair has tons of customers praising their comfort — like one reviewer who said they usually live in Birkenstocks and now own *five* pairs of these.

Promising review: "These are so incredibly beautiful and look just like the Alaïa ballet flats. I chose the nude color and loved them so much that I also bought the black — because one pair was simply not enough. Honestly, I want them in every color. They are unbelievably comfortable — light as a feather, super wearable, and wonderfully breathable. I’m a size 7, and they run true to size. The quality is excellent, and for the price, you truly can’t find a better [alternative] in terms of quality, comfort, and overall similarity. Do yourself a favor and grab them before they sell out — you won’t regret it." —Daisy Salazar

Get them from Amazon for $40.49+ (available in sizes 6–11 and seven styles). 

Some luxe Quince colorblock ballet flats that may *look* like Chanel, but they won't be nearly as much of a hit to your wallet. They're crafted from Italian leather and outfitted with ortholite insoles so your feet won't be screaming at the end of a long work day. If you're in between sizes, size up!

Promising reviews: "These are beautiful shoes. The only thing missing is the double C's on the toe cap. ;) Even the packaging is high quality. So glad I purchased these!!" —Jodi H.

"After breaking a leg, I will only wear flat shoes. I have had to rebuild my shoe wardrobe, and needed a pair of dressier flats. These go with everything from jeans to trousers and skirts and elevate everything too. Nice fit, comfortable, and look and feel sophisticated." —Kelly C.

Puma Speedcat flats combining sporty street style with the elegance of a ballet shoe, complete with a real suede upper and stretchy elastic bands to keep you feeling supported. BTW, they make other Speedcat ballet styles (but they're super popular, so sizing can be a bit limited)!

Promising review: "Pumas are the only thin-soled shoes that don't make my feet hurt. These look super cute with a sundress and are great for travel." —Denise K.

"Extremely comfortable. Padding on inside at heel of shoe allows them to be worn without socks right out of the box. Highly recommend!" —Angie S.

Get them from Puma for $90 (available in sizes 5.5–11 and three colors). 

Some super femme "Soft Ballerina Petals" Mary Janes embellished with flowers and scented like bubblegum — leave it to Melissa (known for their nostalgic jelly shoes!) to come up with something this adorable. The straps have adjustable studs so you can find the right level of tightness, and the material is easy to wipe clean.

Promising review: "Love this updated ballerina flat. Floral and girly. Great with dresses and jeggings, elevate your whole outfit. No breaking-in needed, comfortable and soft on first wear. Like walking on clouds." —KC

Get them from Melissa for $99 (available in sizes 5–10 and four styles).

Stretchy knit Rothy's ballet flats to put an end to your search for the *perfect* pair of flats, because once you switch to Rothy's, it's hard to go back to that cheap pair that digs into your feet and falls apart in a matter of months. Just toss these in the wash every couple of weeks (or whenever they start to get stinky), let them air dry, and they'll be good as new. 

This particular style fits true to size, though it's recommended to go a half size up for a roomier fit or if you have wider feet. I would say I have medium-size feet (not narrow or wide), and I still went a half size up, which works perfectly for me with Rothy's in general. I have two pairs of their flats, and they're super comfy and feel so lightweight and stretchy. Psst — check out my colleagues' full Rothy's flats review for more deets.

Promising review: "My second pair of Rothy's (my first pair was slingbacks) and they’re everything I hoped for. I often find flats to be uncomfortable in some way; usually the heel rubs or the corners pinch. Not these! So comfy and cute! I’ve worn them for work and fun. The only way they’d be better is a little more arch support." —Heather Z.

Get them from Amazon or direct from Rothy's for $99 (available in sizes 5–13 and up to seven colors/patterns). Rothy's flats come in a bunch of other styles, too!

Some Steve Madden tabis in case you've been crushing on Maison Margiela's somewhat divisive but undoubtedly iconic split-toe style that goes for over $1,000. You can still make a statement with this well-crafted pair that comes in both vegan leather and mesh options.

Promising reviews: "I’ve tried a lot of tabi shoes, and most of them are super firm with really thin soles that can make them uncomfortable after a while. These also have a thin sole, but the leather is soft and flexible and actually molds to your foot, which makes a big difference. They look amazing on and feel much more natural than a lot of the other pairs I’ve tried. My only wish is that the sole was a little thicker for more cushioning, but overall, they’re still a beautiful shoe. I wear a 6–6.5 depending on the cut, and I got these in a 6." —Diana J.

"I wish there were more colors! Super comfortable if you’ve been thinking about the Margiela ones, just get these instead! Obsessed obsessed!!" —Itzel M.

Get them from Amazon or direct from Steve Madden for $119.95 (available in sizes 5–14 and in eight styles).

Vionic's Caroll 2.0 ballet flats designed with true comfort in mind — the brand's "Vio Motion technology" includes contoured arch support, shock-absorbent cushioning, a deep heel cup that keeps you stable, and a flexible construction that moves with you. And while the styles (ranging from neutral leather and suede to snake-embossed nubuck) aren't anything flashy, they have a sleek, versatile look that'll go with just about anything in your wardrobe, so you can count on really getting your money's worth out of wearing them. Also, they come in wide sizes!

Promising reviews: "Good looking! Comes in WIDE, which my foot with bunions requires. The material is soft enough for comfort but strong enough to hold up. This one is a keeper!" —Susan

"These slip-on flats are both stylish and comfortable. I have plantar fasciitis and wear mostly Vionic shoes. These are a cute addition to my wardrobe and add a dressier look." —Lynne

Get them from Nordstrom, Amazon, or direct from Vionic for $135 (available in sizes 5–13, medium and wide widths, and nine styles). 

Customizable Mary Janes from Vivaia that come with three interchangeable shoelaces letting you switch up your style depending on the day and mood. They have a travel-friendly foldable design, supportive EVA cushioning, and a breathable, antimicrobial upper — plus, they're machine washable!

Promising review: "Super cute and comfy! I wore them for six-hour convention. I walked back and forth from my hotel and all around the convention center and my feet felt great the entire day. I received many compliments on how cute they were." —Christina W.

Get them from Amazon or direct from Vivaia for $139 (available in sizes 5–11 and 10 styles). 

Birdies' Hummingbird flats, a true ~gem~ of a shoe perfect for elevating your everyday outfits and whipping out for special occasions. They come in a small but gorgeous range of styles, including plush velvet shades topped off with a sparkly jeweled bow. And beneath their luxe exterior is Birdies' "Barefoot Ballerina" tech, aka a flexible footbed that bends to you as you move but offers plush comfort and arch support. 

Promising reviews: "I love my latest ballet slipper! The golden shimmer goes from day to night with the right outfits. The fit is perfect and the comfort is so ahhh!" —Sandra F.

"These are the most comfortable ballet flats I have ever purchased! I put them on immediately out of the box and they so comfortable! I love them and they fit perfectly. And the bow helps to make my daily outfits look a little more stylish." —Sabrina P.

Get them from Birdies for $175 (available in sizes 5–11 and eight styles).

Brown suede Alohas Rosalind flats with an elasticized back and flexible, cushiony soles that'll make them feel like a match made in heaven for your feet. And the pull tabs make them a breeze to slip on when you're rushing out the door. 

Promising reviews: "Can I give them 10 stars? Love!! I live in the city and walk a ton. These have held up really well so far." —j drew

"I wasn't sure that I was going to keep these when I ordered them because I usually wear sandals or sneakers and I didn't know if it was would wear them. These are so comfortable and cute, keeping them for sure." —Sunnyj

Get them from Anthropologie for $190 (available in sizes 4–12 — and see more styles at Alohas). 

M.Gemi's unbelievably chic square-toe ballet flats crafted from Italian leather and handmade in Tuscany. Here's the kicker, though: They're not *actually* flat; there's a built-in hidden wedge giving you a tad bit of lift and arch support. So you can count on being able to go the distance in these beauties, and they're built to hold up against *years* of wear. 

Promising review: "These are the only flats I love! My first pair has lasted three years of significant use and is only slightly more worn looking than the pair I just got in a second color. Worth the price point, quality product that looks and feels great!" —Shannon C.

Get them from M.Gemi for $298 (available in sizes 35–42 and three colors).

Spanish-made Margaux flats with a handwoven leather upper that'll gradually soften and mold to your foot over time, and plush foam padding that'll put a little extra pep in your step. Reviewers praise the impeccable quality and the wide-foot-friendly toe box — plus, that cute bow on top? It's actually an adjustable cord you can use to tighten or loosen the fit.

Margaux does recommend ordering a half-size down from your usual US shoe size for the best fit, since the leather will relax with wear.

Promising review: "I've been investing in quality flats and have tried a lot of the brands that typically come up when doing research. When you live in NYC you find out pretty quickly when a shoe doesn't have the right support. I can honestly say these have been the most most comfortable pair of flats that I've bought, full stop. The leather feels delicious, and the insoles feel really comfortable, while also not being bulky. A beautiful, classic and elegant style. I was also shocked at how comfy they were straight out of the box without any breaking in." —Sarah W.

Get the woven style from Margaux for $325 (available in sizes 3.5–14 and 12 total styles, including other options for $280).

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Plus, heels, waterproof running shoes, and finds from Amazon, Clarks, DSW, Walmart, and Zappos.

BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: Our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.

The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.