These last few seasons, ballerina shoes have firmly conquered the fashion scene. But for every person who sees them as an elegant and comfortable style solution, there’s another searching for the best alternatives to ballet flats.

Like just about every other shoe trend, there’s a divide. Critics say ballet flats are not comfortable, too basic, or hard to style. Others consider it the most essential shoe in their closet. To help out that former group, we started thinking about seriously about what, beyond sneakers and classic loafers, really are the most stylish and comfortable shoes—the kind of footwear that would be an actual, viable alternative to ballet flats.

As a result, we discovered a whole world of practical substitutes that are as durable as they are fashion-forward and easy to wear. Behold: The best alternatives to ballet flats this spring and summer.

Considering how soft ballet flats can be, sometimes they lack the structure that an outfit might need. Suede loafers or boat shoes, which have recently come back into the trend cycle, are the perfect antidote and still retain that preppy look. Plus, their slightly stiffer shape helps add an element of cohesion to looser-fitting garments.

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Nordstrom

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