Ballet flats and glove shoes emerge as key footwear trends

Ballet flats are emerging as a dominant footwear trend for the transition from summer to fall 2026. The style is evolving from the ‘balletcore’ aesthetic seen in previous years toward a more sophisticated ‘glove shoe’ silhouette.

This updated look features a high-vamp design that hugs the instep and offers a sleeker, more fitted appearance compared to traditional round-toe flats. The trend has gained significant traction among celebrities and fashion influencers, including Zoë Kravitz, Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, and Dakota Johnson.

Market options for this trend range from satin and mesh to leather in seasonal colors like burgundy and blue, with various silhouettes including Mary Janes and high-vamp styles being utilized for both casual and elevated outfits.