Ballet flats, consider this a friendly warning: There’s another sleek style angling for your spot by the front door. Meet glove shoes, which are turning up on runways, in street-style snaps and in the wardrobes of Kendall Jenner, Katie Holmes and more A-listers. Think of them as the ballet flat’s fashion-forward sister, with supple uppers, a higher vamp that covers more of the foot and just enough quirkiness to make any fall outfit feel fresh.
Quick Overview
Before you add a pair to your cart, a few details deserve a closer look. We tapped stylists to explain the appeal, settle the glove-shoe-versus-ballet-flat question and share what makes a pair worth your money — and a spot in your everyday rotation.
What are glove shoes?
The name says it all. “A glove shoe is made from soft, flexible material that closely hugs the foot, much like a glove hugs your hand,” explains personal stylist Tara West. Think sleek, supple and stripped back.
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So, what separates them from ballet flats? Look at the top of the shoe. Glove shoes have a higher vamp — the part that covers the top of your foot — while traditional ballet flats show more skin. That extra coverage makes them an easy pick for fall.
The other giveaway? The feel. “Ballet flats also tend to have a little more structure, while a glove shoe should be incredibly soft and pliable. It really should fit like a glove,” says stylist Zoë Hennessey.
Why are glove shoes winning over the fashion world?
Call this trend a footwear palate cleanser. After years of chunky dad sneakers, glove shoes offer a simpler, more pared-down way to step out. “I find a daintier foot so chic after years of those big, clunky sneakers!” says Hennessey. “There is something very sleek, feminine and sophisticated about this shape. It just feels more elevated and interesting to me right now.”
Their appeal goes beyond a slimmer silhouette. “Glove shoes feel fresh and modern because of their shape and soft, close fit,” says West. “The clean lines and minimal detailing give them a sophisticated appearance, while the extra coverage offers a different proportion from a traditional ballet flat.” That higher vamp does a lot with a little: It gives a familiar flat a fresh shape — and gives ballet-flat fans a reason to try something new without going too far out of their comfort zone.
How to find your perfect pair
Much of the charm of glove shoes comes down to their barely-there feel, so pay attention to softness, flexibility and how comfortably they follow the shape of your foot. “Shoppers should look for a close fit that hugs the foot without squeezing the toes or slipping at the heel,” says West. “The top line shouldn’t dig into your skin! Check for smooth interior seams and a flexible sole with enough cushioning for your needs.”
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Hennessey likes her glove shoes especially supple. “For me, the whole appeal is that they are soft, thin and incredibly pliable. I want the material to almost collapse when my foot is not in it and then fit like a second skin once it is on.”
Leather isn’t your only option. Hennessey also suggests faux leather, soft suede and canvas for glove shoes. Whatever you choose, flexibility is key — the shoe should move with your foot. And when it comes to color, black and brown are easy picks for a pair you’ll wear on repeat. You can also try rich burgundy or pretty pink for a pop of color.
Ready to find your fit? Shop our favorite glove shoes for fall below.
Amazon
This affordable pair is the perfect way to dip your toe into the glove-shoe trend without dropping a ton of money. A plush insole and nonslip rubber sole make these comfy enough for busy days on your feet. They’re the kind of budget-friendly basic that can easily pass for a much pricier pair and earn a spot in your weekly shoe rotation.
Amazon
The rich brown hue and faux suede give these simple glove shoes instant polish. Style them with straight-leg jeans and a chunky knit for an easy everyday look, or let the sleek toe peek out from under tailored trousers when you want to dress things up a bit. Either way, they’ll make any look feel more elevated.
Old Navy
The sleek shape and V-cut opening give this sophisticated pair an edgier feel than your usual ballet flats. We’re partial to the faux leather, but there are also brown and black faux suede options for a touch of texture. And if you’re feeling more adventurous? Try the studded and sequin versions and let your shoes steal the show.
Amazon
A packed calendar calls for a little cushioning. These flats have a memory-foam footbed for extra comfort, and shoppers rave about how lightweight they feel. Whether you’re heading to work or tackling a lengthy to-do list, just slip them on and see where the day takes you.
Amazon
I especially love the strappy detail on these — it gives the simple silhouette a little more personality while making them surprisingly practical. Unlike slip-ons that can slide around as you walk, these will keep your foot securely in place. A cute detail that also makes shoes easier to walk in? Consider me sold!
Quince
These flats look way more expensive than they are. These sleek, minimalist shoes are made from 100% Italian leather, and hundreds of shoppers say they’re actually comfortable to walk around in thanks to their Ortholite padded insoles and cushioned arch supports.
Anthropologie
Give your everyday outfits a little main-character energy with these two-tone glove flats. The contrasting cap toe brings a fashion-girl finish, while the slip-on silhouette keeps things easy. They’re the kind of shoes that make a simple outfit feel styled but are still practical enough to wear anywhere.