If you were to ask anyone in the fashion pack their footwear of choice in this strange period that's not quite summer yet not quite autumn, they'll probably tell you it's between a chunky loafer - or a dainty ballet flat. Since the ballet flat's resurgence last year, it seems the trend is going absolutely nowhere and we spotted every variation imaginable at this year's Copenhagen Fashion Week. As we've seen in the sell-out M&S Ganni Leopard Blouse and New Look's Hermès Chypre sandal dupe, it's never long before the high street embraces a trend, offering up alternatives that won't break the bank. This week, it's Next's Forever Comfort Lasercut Mary Jane Shoes, £36 influencers are loving and comparing to Alaïa's now completely sold-out pair.
Spotted on the feet of some of the most fashion-conscious celebrities like Dakota Johnson and Dua Lipa, Alaïa rode the wave of the ballet flat revival and elevated the trend to new heights with its perforated style. These flats didn't just follow the trend, they set the bar, quickly earning its place as the most sought-after ballet pumps of the year.
While Alaïa's ballet flats have caught the eye of influencers and celebrities alike, Next's affordable version mirrors the high-end design without setting you back your monthly rent. The high street version features a similar cut-out pattern, round toe, buckled adjustable strap, and have even been hailed as 'more comfortable' than the original.
Shop the designer-looking ballet flats below.
Shop: Alaïa Dupe Ballet Flats
Nextwww.next.co.uk
Featuring a similar cut-out design as the on-trend Alaïa flats, they come in three different colours; white, black and a very autumnal berry red.
More Next Ballet Flats To Shop
Nextwww.next.co.uk
This pair of ballet flats with a square toe gives them a slight edge on the classic round toe we're so used to seeing on this type of shoe. Much like the Alaïa dupe, these flats also have the same Forever Comfort footbed, except these also have a faux leather overlay too.
Nextwww.next.co.uk
Yet another pair of ballet pumps in the Forever Comfort range, this pair boasts a stunning silver finish and woven leather upper. Plus, they have that retro bow detailing on the toe.
Nextwww.next.co.uk
Add a pop of colour to any outfit with these pink ballerinas that feature a chic square toe. Style them with a pair of denim jeans, white tee and a suede jacket for the most versatile transitional outfit.
Nextwww.next.co.uk
These ballet flats won't be for everyone, but we love its zebra-print pattern that's sure to add an edge to any outfit. Saying that, the classic ballet pump silhouette and round toe will keep things simultaneously elegant.
Nextwww.next.co.uk
So it still looks like we're going to be leopard print obsessed going into autumn, and these shoes are a timeless way of injecting leopard into your wardrobe. The eyelet buckle detailing on this pair also makes for a more punk-inspired look.
Main image credits: Instagram/@angelitalc, @brittanybathgate
Gemma Lavers is a Fashion Writer at Bauer Media, writing for brands like Grazia, heat and Closer. Gemma specialises in all things clothing and enjoys outfit planning (especially for holidays), scrolling social media for the next trend and shopping (probably for a new coat).