The revival of the ballet sneaker trend: Would you wear these?

The ballet sneaker – it shouldn't work, but somehow it does.

Originally a product of the 2000s, it's another Y2K trend cycling its way back into the current fashion space. You might remember the Converse-ballet hybrids that we used to rock back in the day, blending comfort and style in a way that was ahead of its time.

By the end of last year, the ballet sneaker was back in the spotlight. Since then, more brands have added their own twist to this iconic style, with affordable options emerging alongside the high-end releases and re-sales.

The combination of cute, coquette, ballet vibes with the gritty, practical edge of sneakers, creates a brilliant, unexpected fusion.

Whether you're in Australia gearing up for autumn or anywhere else, this versatile shoe is the perfect transitional piece. Trust us – you'll be seeing a lot more of it in 2025. This trend is just getting started.

Keen to shop the trend? We've rounded up the best available online so you can be the first to adopt the revamped trend.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

Charles & Keith Metallic Mesh Pearl-Embellished Mary Jane Sneakers

Get it for $119

These Charles & Keith sneakers are a showstopper without breaking the bank. Inspired by Mary Jane flats, they feature a mesh upper, metallic cap toes, and beaded embellishments all while maintaining the cool edge of sneakers.

Charles & Keith Mesh Curved Platform Mary Jane Sneakers

Buy it for $136

If you're looking to make a bold statement, go for the Charles & Keith Mesh Curved Platform Mary Jane sneakers. These shoes perfectly blend chunky, sporty sneakers with the sweet, modest charm of Mary Janes. Featuring a closed-toe silhouette with mesh panels, they add a utilitarian edge to the feminine design. With their bubble platform sole, these sneakers are both playful and wearable.

PUMA Speedcat Ballet Women's in Puma White

Grab it for $139.99

Originally designed for Formula 1, the Puma Speedcat is now reimagined as the Speedcat Ballet, blending classic style with a modern twist. It features a metallic upper, embroidered Puma logo, and elastic bands for a secure fit. With its sleek, low-profile design it's the perfect mix of performance and fashion.

Adidas Taekwondo Mei Shoes

Buy it for $150

Talking about brands putting their own spin on the iconic ballet sneaker, Adidas has kept this interesting with these Taekwando Mei Shoes. Inspired by ballet shoes, these feature a soft leather, durable rubber outsole and three lace lengths for customisable styling.

Nike Women's Air Rift Premium Ribbons 'Soft Pink'

From $172

One of the standout entries into the ballet sneaker trend last year was Nike, with the release of the Women's Air Rift Premium Ribbons in Soft Pink. With their soft pink neoprene upper, delicate ribbon detailing, and signature Swoosh, they perfectly blend ballet-inspired elegance with Nike's sporty edge. The ribbons, designed to wrap around the ankle, add a customisable touch, making them both stylish and unique.

These sneakers became an instant hit, selling out quickly after their release. While they're hard to find at retail, they continue to surface through resellers, making them a must-have for both sneakerheads and ballet sneaker fans.

JW PEI Women's Caitlin Lace-up Ballerina Sneakers

From $185.40

Another major contributor to the ballet sneaker revival is JW PEI, with their Caitlin Lace-up Ballerina Sneakers in Beige. These classic ballet sneakers feature a suede fabric upper, a fabric lining, and a durable rubber sole, blending comfort with chic ballet-inspired design.

JW PEI Women's Rosie Bow Tie Low Top Sneakers

Get these from $200

If you're looking to make a sweet statement, the JW PEI Rosie Bow Tie Low Top Sneakers tick all the boxes. Made with a combination of vegan leather and mesh, these sneakers feature a vegan leather and fabric lining, and a durable rubber sole, offering both style and comfort in one chic package.

Salomon x Sandy Liang Speedcross 3 Ribbon "Black Pink" Sneakers

Get them from $294

The Salomon x Sandy Liang Speedcross 3 Ribbon "Black Pink" sneakers were an inventive take on the ballet sneaker trend, ahead of their time with their unique fusion of athletic, edgy sneaker design and ballet-inspired elements. These sneakers feature a black technical upper paired with cloud pink satin ribbons that can be wrapped around the legs.

Their unique design has made them highly sought after, leading to quick sell-outs at retail, but they are available at resellers if you are willing to pay the price.

Axel Arigato Off-White Marathon Ballet Sneakers

Buy it for $515

If you prefer a bulkier sneaker that nods to the ballet sneaker trend without fully merging the two, opt for these Axel Arigato Marathon Ballet Sneakers. These low-top, textured woven recycled polyester sneakers feature a Mary Jane-style design in off-white, with handcrafted details like cracked leather trim, a lace-up closure, and a padded collar.

ROMBAUT Black Aura Bows Ballerina Flats

Get it for $625

If you're drawn to the blend of utilitarian edge with the sweetness of balletcore, the Rombaut Black Aura Bows Ballerina Flats are the perfect match. These handcrafted, Bureau Veritas-certified faux-leather flats feature a sleek black design with gathering throughout, a satin bow appliqué at the vamp, and wraparound self-tie satin ankle straps.

MM6 Maison Margiela Black Salomon Edition XT-Mary J Sneakers

Buy it from $625

The MM6 Maison Margiela Black Salomon Edition XT-Mary J Sneakers are the perfect fusion of Mary Janes, ballet flats, and sneakers. These low-top, mesh sneakers in black feature bonded trim throughout and a logo printed at the toe, outer side, and heel. A logo-printed Velcro strap at the open vamp adds a modern touch, while the mesh lining and AC2 Muscle unit at the foam rubber midsole offer comfort and support.

READ MORE: Shop our sneaker trend predictions for 2025