Women's ballet flats are footwear derived by ballet dancer shoes and are slipper-like. They have a very thin heel or the appearance of no heel at all. Ballet flats are low-cut, usually with a closed toe. Because of the low cut, they show a lot of the top of the foot. Recently released shoes have added open toe styles. A ballet flat is a very comfortable shoe to wear. The most comfortable flats have rubber soles that bend easily.

The ballet flat style usually features a ribbon-like binding around the low tops of the slipper and may have a slight gathering at the top-front of the toe box (vamp) and a tiny, decorative string tie. Flats can be tightened or loosened by way of the string tie. Some styles provide a decorative zipper insert on the top. Accents include buckles, straps, gems and bows.

Ballet flats are constructed with a variety of materials including canvas, leather, satin, soft suede, and velvet. Flats are stylish. Shoe designers have provided plenty of choices. Flats should have a place in every woman's wardrobe because they're a great way to look stylish while giving your feet a rest.

The beauty of the ballet flat lies in its versatility. They're simple, understated, but can still be elegant. Women's flats are practical in both formal and casual settings. Worn with dress pants they compliment one's work ensemble but they can also be paired with jeans. Try wearing ballet flats with a short pencil skirt, straight cut jeans and pants, and capri pants. Pair flats with leggings for your own take on ballet dancer chic. Wear flats for summer with a long flowing dress. Keeping the vertical line of the dress extended almost to the floor will help make you look longer and leaner. Try an alternative toe style, rather than the rounded ballet toe. Pointed toes will help to elongate and tend to make you look a bit taller. Square toe patent flats also look good.

Wearing flats won't give you the lift of several inches that high heels provide but pairing them with a short skirt will give the legs a longer appearance. Black flats are an excellent choice as it will coordinate well with the other items in your wardrobe. Red patent leather flats paired with black jeans look great. To make sure you don't slip out of them, buy a snug fitting pair. If comfort is your primary concern in a situation, this style of shoe is a top choice.

Shoes: Buying & Fashion Tips: Flat Shoes for Women

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