Ballet oxfords, jazz shoes, derbys—whatever you want to call them, they’re making a comeback this fall either way.
We’re not surprised. Fashion has long been inspired by the world of dance. Just this past season, for example, Ferragamo dressed some of its models in tutus, bodysuits, and stiletto sandals embellished with ankle ribbons. The ballet influence could also be seen in JW Anderson’s structured dresses and Simone Rocha’s poetic spirit and passion for tulle. And though It girls like Alexa Chung and Kate Moss made ballet flats trendy in the 2010s, ballerina-core shoes have become an all-out phenomenon in the past year
Ballet flats are so ubiquitous, in fact, that it’s natural to wonder what’s next. Enter the “ballet oxford.” The slim lace-up shoe is more structured than a ballerina flat—making it much more reliable for walking—but the leather is softer and more supple than that of a classic oxford, and the laces are dainty. Basically, it’s everything you want in a flat: comfortable, elevated, effortlessly stylish.
Despite all these benefits, it’s been a while since we’ve seen the shoe style be on trend. In the 1970s, French singer, director, and actor Serge Gainsbourg swore by Repetto’s Zizi models, which were designed for Rose Repetto’s dancer daughter-in-law, Zizi Jeanmaire. Derby shoes took a backseat over the years, however, as fashion turned toward chunkier heels and platform soles. But recently, slim oxfords in buttery soft leather and lace-up jazz shoes have been making a comeback thanks to designers like Jacquemus and Celine.
You might as well add the ballet oxford to your fall wish list now, because you’ll be wanting a pair as soon as you see them out on the streets. All that’s left is to think about how you’re going to style the look. Will you play with balance and wear yours with oversized pants? Or how about channeling the 2010s with an immaculate tank top and skinny jeans? Why not both!?
Shop some of our favorite ballet oxfords, below.
A version of this story was previously published in Vogue France.
