Not all flats are created equal. Whether you're planning a coffee date outfit or curating your dream wardrobe, flats are the perfect starting point. They’re comfortable, polished, and never go out of style. But… what’s the difference between a ballerina flat and a Venetian slipper? And how do you style them without looking too basic?
Let’s break it down, with some extra styling tips by our creative director Chiara Baratello for an effortless everyday look 💛
1. Ballet Flats: The Everyday Icon
Ballet flats are a forever favorite. These ballet style shoes are inspired by actual dance shoes, sleek, rounded, and feminine. Think classic silhouettes in soft leather or suede, often in black ballet flats or muted neutrals. They’re the definition of quiet luxury and the easiest way to feel dressed-up with zero effort. Characterized often by a rounded toe, low vamp, and barely-there sole, they’re delicate, timeless, and incredibly easy to wear.
Best For:
- Everyday errands
- Brunch with friends
- Traveling chic
Style it with:
- Straight jeans + white tee + linen blazer
- A-line mini skirt + long socks
- Slip dress + cardigan
2. Ballerina Flats with a Twist
Ballerina flats are the glow-up of traditional ballet flats, think pointed toes, sculpted shapes, padded insoles, and luxe textures like cavallino and suede. They can also range from red ballerina shoes to pointy ballerina flats, where this style also adds a grown-up polished look with romantic charm. They're ideal for feminine looks that need a modern twist.
Best For:
- Date nights
- Casual Fridays
- Dressing up your basics
Style it with:
- Straight jeans + chunky belts
- Long silky skirt + matching tank
- Monochrome all-black with pointy-toe ballerinas
3. Venetian Slippers: La Dolce Vita on Your Feet
Also known as Friulane shoes, Venetian slippers are velvet dreams born in the canals of Venice. These flat, square-toe beauties once worn by aristocrats and gondoliers alike have a distinct silhouette with a squared-off toe, plush textures, and an old-world charm. Now they’re reimagined in rich velvets and jewel tones that turn every step into a bolder statement. Velvet ballerinas offer plush comfort with refined drama. They’re both luxurious and nonchalant, the kind of shoe you slip into when you want to say: “I didn’t try too hard, but I still look amazing.”
Best For:
- Aperitivo hour
- Art gallery visits
- At-home hosting
Style it with:
- Long dreamy dresses
- Pajama-style suit sets
- Tailored trousers + lace blouse
Babù Tip: Style your Venetian slippers with a vintage bag and oversized sunglasses for a retro Venetian holiday vibe, even if you're just in the city.
4. Loafers: The Power Flat
Loafers are your go-to when you want to look polished without heels. From chunky to minimal, loafers' shoes add a cool, confident edge to any look. Leather loafers in black or tan are especially versatile as they pair well with everything from denim to trousers to floaty dresses. Originally a menswear staple, they’ve been reinterpreted by fashion houses like Gucci, The Row, and to be sleek, feminine, and powerful. You’ll find chunky soles, horsebit hardware, and minimalist leather pairs.
Best For:
- Job interviews
- Museum dates
- Everyday workwear
Style it with:
- Pleated trousers + crisp shirt
- Blazer + denim + Babù loafers
- Socks + mini skirt combo
How to Choose the Right Flat for You
|
Your Vibe Is... |
Go For... |
Bonus Styling Tips |
|
Romantic & Feminine |
Ballet flats |
Pair with a flowy midi skirt, puff-sleeve blouse, and a ribbon-tied low ponytail. Pair with: Wine Purple Leather |
|
Trendy & Playful |
Pointy ballerina shoes |
Style with low-rise trousers, a baby tee, and statement sunglasses (Y2K meets ballet). Pair with: Double Mucca Cavallino |
|
Artsy & Refined |
Venetian slippers |
Wear with a silk robe-style blazer, wide-leg pants, and gold jewelry. Pair with: Umber Brown Suede |
|
Minimalist & Modern |
Leather loafers |
Match with a crisp white shirt, black tailored pants and slicked back hair. Pair with: Noir Black Vernice |
Step Into Babú’s World
At Babú, we design flats for women who do it all, from slow Sundays to fast-paced meetings. Every pair is made in Italy, with soft materials, timeless palettes, and an eye for craftsmanship.
