Black flats are not only a necessary accessory when crafting a capsule closet, they’re also a trending footwear pick these days. A mainstay on the runway, celebrities can’t seem to get enough of the simple shoe in their everyday lives, pairing them with everything from off-duty ensembles, such as effortless T-shirts and jeans, to dressier combinations with a little more polish. Incorporating black flats into your own wardrobe just makes sense, given the comfort factor and ease of styling, but they’re also a clever transitional footwear choice.
The List of Celeb-Approved Black Flats:
Whether you favor Zoë Kravitz’s simple ballerina shapes, trimmed with delicate ribbon trims, rely on high-vamp glove flats adored by Kendall Jenner, or are leaning towards the satin Mary Janes that Alexa Chung has been spotted in, you’ll find classic black flat options within this list of favorites—all Vogue-approved. From Jennifer Lawrence’s penchant for Manolo Blahnik’s Veralli or Zendaya’s favorite Tabis from Maison Margiela, and even Kaia Gerber’s new collection for Repetto, inspired by the fan-favorite Camille—there’s a reason why these black flat styles remain fixtures in the permanent offerings of many designers.
Think of these black flats outfits inspired by celebs as your masterclass in transitional dressing. Each one is sure to spark inspiration within your own wardrobe, as you start putting together spring outfits on the daily. Ahead, shop our top ten looks to recreate.
Utilitarian With a Twist
Kendall Jenner stepped out for coffee in Los Angeles wearing an easy transitional spring look, centered around black flats. Choosing a navy utility jacket from the Row, she paired her simple high-vamp glove flat with blue jeans—a burgundy maxi Chanel bag and her favorite sunnies being the only accessories needed. Recreate the look with a similar-toned bag, mixing these key transitional staples.
Evening Ease
Hailey Bieber loves a black monochrome look—often gravitating towards the rich noir shade for everything from date night fits to everyday ensembles. Here she wears a sleeveless knit turtleneck and satin trouser pants for a night out, adding in a black flat shoe for polished comfort. A ‘90s-inspired tote bag and minimal hoops as her perfect finishing touches to keep this feeling sleek and modern.
Sportswear-Coded
Alexa Chung’s love for ballet flats is no secret—and Miu Miu’s strappy satin Mary Jane is in constant rotation. Here, she styled them with wardrobe favorites—an oversized leather bomber jacket, a blue button-down shirt, a crewneck sweatshirt with a retro-athletic feel, and simple straight-leg jeans. Adding a top-handle handbag and oversized floral earrings complete the look with her signature quirk.
Off-Duty Essentials
Vittoria Ceretti kept it cool and classic while in Paris, wearing her black ballerina flats with a navy cardigan and low-rise pinstriped pants. The supermodel added a black shoulder bag, Yankees ball cap, and square sunglasses for off-duty ease—it’s a look that reads polished with a slice of downtown edge, proving even the simplest accessories can still make a statement.
City Chic
Katie Holmes knows how to work a good flat shoe. Being a New Yorker, she faces countless steps per day, so take a bit of inspiration from the way she wears her square-toed pair by layering a button-up top and simple trouser pants underneath a classic trench coat. It’s a flawless transitional look that becomes even more cool with the addition of a pendant cord necklace.
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Nothing but the Basics
Zoë Kravitz is always on our style mood board—and she also happens to be a big advocate for black flats in her off-duty wardrobe. As seen here, you don’t have to stray too far from the essentials; a classic T-shirt and black jeans are really all you need. Add designer sunglasses and some bling, and you’re good to go.
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Ladylike Nods
Jennifer Lawrence is another city dweller who is constantly spotted in sensible flats. You can often find her in black ballerina styles from Manolo Blahnik—a classic choice. Replicate this perfect transitional outfit by pairing them with an oversized white T-shirt, cool-girl blazer, and poplin midi skirt—a piece you can wear now, even before summer starts.
Fashion Girl-Approved
Zendaya’s enviable closet is full of covetable designer pieces, her black Tabi flats from Maison Margiela being a downtown favorite. They add an extra bit of fashion-forward edge to standby staples, such as an oversized leather jacket, crewneck sweater, and black trouser pants. No notes.
Punk Meets Prep
Rihanna’s way of remixing trends always mesmerizes us—like the addition of T-strap Mary Jane flats to this pinstripe cotton set. Sporty accessories, like a ball cap and tube socks, feel right in line with the literary prep mood we saw across the runways for spring. For cooler days currently, simply style with a chunky cardigan or blazer, then shed the layers as it warms up.
Know Your Heroes
More often than not, Kaia Gerber can be seen in her Repetto ballerina flats—she now even has a collaboration with the brand. Whether it’s a quick trip to-and-from the gym, a cocktail event, or just a walk on the streets of Manhattan, she proves a hoodie, trouser pants, and simple accessories come alive with the addition of a trusted pair of black flats.
