This season’s most buzzed-about footwear isn’t an ankle boot or a chunky trainer—it’s the buckle-strap ballet flat. Seamlessly blending the elegance of the classic Mary Jane with modern attitude, these versatile flats have surged from street-style snaps to catwalk highlights. Far from delicate, the buckle-strap ballet flat is the hybrid shoe of autumn 2025, effortlessly pairing girlish charm with urban edge.
A nod to balletcore with an unexpected twist
When balletcore first swept social feeds, soft pink tutus and ribbon-tied pointe shoes reigned supreme. But as we head into autumn-winter 2025, designers have injected a dose of rebellion: sturdy buckles, metal studs, and sculpted soles. The buckle-strap flat retains the feminine silhouette of the traditional ballet shoe while adding details that speak to today’s streetwise sensibilities. It’s the perfect middle ground for those who love romance but crave a little toughness underfoot.
Defining features of the strap-and-buckle trend
On closer inspection, buckle-strap ballet flats stand out through subtle yet impactful design choices:
Adjustable straps: From a single slim band across the instep to multiple diagonal straps, each buckle variation lends a unique personality.
Mixed materials: Patent leather shines in evening-ready versions, while suede and nubuck add depth to daytime looks.
Chunky soles: Echoing the Monolith trend, several designer flats feature platform-inspired rubber soles for both comfort and street credibility.
Ornate hardware: Oversized metal buckles, engraved buckles or buckles studded with tiny crystals elevate the shoe from basic to statement-making.
Runway round-up: how the fashion houses interpreted the trend
Top labels showcased buckle-straps across a spectrum of themes:
Prada paired patent buckle-flats with airy slip dresses, contrasting fluid fabrics against rigid hardware.
Miu Miu embraced evening glamour, embedding rhinestone buckles onto satin ballet flats for a festive sparkle.
Simone Rocha introduced bulbous monolith soles and velvet uppers, giving her buckle-flats a dramatic, almost theatrical flair.
Chloé and Isabel Marant channeled folk and western influences: brushed calf leather, ankle-high straps, and buckles reminiscent of equestrian bridles.
Styling your buckle-straps for every occasion
One of the many appeals of these flats is their chameleonic ability to adapt to varied wardrobes. Here are some fail-proof pairings:
Office-to-evening: Team glossy black buckle-flats with cropped tailored trousers and a silk blouse. Add a structured blazer for a polished finish.
Preppy cool: Slip into burgundy or navy buckle-shoes with a pleated mini skirt, chunky knit sweater, and opaque tights for a schoolgirl-inspired look with grown-up polish.
Casual chic: Pair suede buckle-flats with straight-leg jeans cuffed at the ankle and an oversized trench. The shoes anchor the outfit with a subtle dash of femininity.
Countrycore edge: Embrace earthy tones—olive skirts, tan leather jackets—and chunky buckle-flats adorned with brass hardware for a modern take on classic western style.
Evening twist: Swap heels for satin buckle-flats under a midi slip dress. The unexpected flat adds comfort without sacrificing elegance, while the buckle detail keeps the look contemporary.
Choosing the right pair: key considerations
To invest wisely, bear in mind:
Fit and adjustability: Ensure the strap buckles close snugly without pinching. Multiple holes or sliding buckles provide the most customizing options.
Material quality: Full-grain leather ages gracefully and molds to your foot, while satin or velvet options require more delicate care.
Sole construction: A lightly cushioned insole and a stable outsole make them comfortable for long hours of wear, from commutes to weekend strolls.
Hardware finish: Silver buckles pair beautifully with cooler tones, whereas gold or brass buckles warm up camel, chestnut, and burgundy hues.
Care tips for lasting style
To keep your buckle straps looking impeccable:
Wipe patent leather with a damp cloth and apply a mild cleaner suited for glossy finishes.
Brush suede and nubuck gently with a rubber refresher to maintain texture.
Maintain hardware shine by polishing buckles with a soft cloth—avoid harsh chemicals that could tarnish metal.
Store flats in their dust bags, using shoe trees or stuffing the toe to preserve the shape of the vamp and straps.
In an era that demands both comfort and creativity, the buckle-strap ballet flat answers the call. Delicate yet daring, it signals a shift from conventional footwear to hybrid expressions of style—where every step becomes an opportunity to blend grace and grit.
