Black Ballet Flats for Summer: The Purchase I Hesitated On, Now I Can’t Stop Wearing

Emma Caldwell
May 16, 2026

When the good weather starts, I almost always think of sandals, espadrilles, light-colored shoes or ballet flats in softer tones. That’s why, when I began considering buying a pair of black ballet flats, I had doubts. They seemed too serious, too closed and perhaps not very summery to wear with light dresses or linen pants.

However, the opposite has happened. After trying them with several spring looks, they have become one of those shoes I end up wearing more than I planned. They don’t compete with the clothes, they don’t visually fatigue, and they have that elegant touch that makes even a simple outfit look more thought-out.

The main doubt was evident: black isn’t usually the first color we associate with warm weather. In spring and summer we feel like wearing raw tones, whites, beiges, raffia, natural leather or even metallic finishes that light up the foot more. I also thought that black ballet flats could harshen outfits too much. Especially with light dresses, flowing skirts or linen garments, I was afraid the contrast would be too marked.

But precisely there lies part of their appeal. That contrast works very well when the rest of the look is light. Black ballet flats provide structure, make the outfit not look too casual, and add a classic touch without needing to resort to heels.

What has surprised me is how easy it has been to incorporate them into my spring-summer wardrobe. I’ve worn them with straight jeans, white dresses, flowing trousers, midi skirts and loose shirts, and in every case they fit.

In addition, they have that slightly French quality that always flatters. They don’t need big details to be elegant. A nice silhouette, a flattering toe, and a clean finish are enough to elevate any ensemble.

How to wear black ballet flats in spring

The easiest way to wear them is with light garments. A white dress, black ballet flats, and a raffia bag create a very simple but effective contrast. It’s the kind of look that looks dressed up without looking overly prepared. They also work very well with linen or cotton pants in beige, raw or sand tones. In that case, black ballet flats help close the styling and add a more urban touch

Another combination I especially like is with straight jeans and a white T-shirt. It’s basic, yes, but the ballet flats make the result more polished than with sneakers. If you add an open male shirt or a lightweight blazer, the look works for both work and a casual lunch.


Black ballet flats with tabi toe by Ulanka.

Black ballet flats with tabi toe by Ulanka.

These flats are very fashionable. The Ulanka brand has released this design in black. It features a tabi toe. They are made of leather. They have a padded insole that provides maximum comfort and a rubber sole. Price: 59.95 euros.


Black ballet flats from Massimo Dutti.

Black ballet flats from Massimo Dutti

If you prefer a more classic and simple design, we recommend these Massimo Dutti flats. They are black ballet flats with a rounded toe and a knot detail. A leather model, very flexible and available in all sizes. Price: 79.95 euros.


Black ballet flats with strap from Pretty Ballerinas.

Black ballet flats with strap from Pretty Ballerinas

Another very elegant and comfortable design is this model with a strap across the instep from Pretty Ballerinas. It is a black ballet flat with a square toe. It features a bow detail at the front. It’s a model worth investing in.

Emma Caldwell
Emma Caldwell
I’m Clara Desrosiers, a writer and fashion editor based in Toronto. I founded Backdoor Toronto to explore the intersection of fashion, identity, and culture through honest storytelling. My work is driven by curiosity, community, and a love for the creative pulse that defines this city.