Katie Holmes Has Been Wearing the Newest Cool-Girl Shoe for Years

There’s one shoe that’s been on every cool girl’s foot this summer, and it’s neither sandals nor Sambas—though, it is just as (if not more) versatile. A simple black ballet flat has quickly emerged as summer’s ‘It’ shoe thanks to stars like Kaia Gerber and Kylie Jenner, and, TBH, I’m not mad.

The classic style has been a go-to for Katie Holmes for years, and it’s for good reason—the shoe is chic, outfit-elevating, and goes with everything, the latter of which has become very clear this summer. Gerber has worn her Repetto pair with everything from sweet Dôen dresses and slinky slip skirts to lounge pants, Jenner just paired the style with a skin-tight bodysuit, Elle Fanning dressed them up with pleated trousers, and Olivia Rodrigo proved they’re an everyday staple when wearing them with straight-leg jeans. This is all to say that black ballet flats are about to become your most-reached-for shoe.

Below, shop eight styles inspired by the ageless trend, starting at $24.

8 Black Ballet Flats

Feversole Ballet Flat

Get the trending look for less with Feversole’s $27, bow-adorned ballet flats. The style is available in a shiny, leather-like black, as well as 59 other colors (yes, you read that right) and has a memory foam insole for all-day comfort. Plus, they’re loved by more than 3,800 shoppers, who say that the affordable shoes “look very expensive.”

Schutz Arissa Square-Toe Ballet Flat

These flats from Schutz take the classic shoe to new levels with a square toe and croc-embossed leather that give the style a super luxe look. Those small details make these even more outfit-elevating than a traditional pair, helping transform simple outfits like jeans a white tee into chic looks. Plus, shoppers rave that the style is immediately comfortable.

Rothy’s the Ballet Flat

Rothy’s is one of my go-to brands for comfortable, durable footwear, so I’m of course eyeing its ballet flat that’s loved by nearly 1,000 customers. Like all of Rothy’s shoes, this flat has an incredibly cushiony insole, flexible knit design, and is machine washable. And while many supportive shoes tend to value comfort over style, Rothy’s ballet flats give you fashion and function.

Tory Burch Cap-Toe Ballet Flat

While all-black flats might be the trending look, this cap-toe pair from Tory Burch, which combines a tortoise print and black leather, are my must-have pair. Pairing the dark brown and black makes these incredibly versatile—they’ll go with any belt or purse you own—and also a little more exciting. Like plain black black flats, these complement just about every look, but they also act as a statement piece when you’re wanting to keep the rest of your outfit simple. 

Timeless black flats are this season’s must-have shoe, and given their versatility, I’m all for it. Shop more celebrity-inspired styles, below.

Madewell the Anelise Ballet Flat

Amazon Essentials Pointed-Toe Ballet Flat

Sarto by Franco Sarto 

Repetto Cendrillon Ballerina Flat