Tired of systematically going out in ballet flats with your jeans, shorts and flowing pants? After two seasons of seeing them everywhere, these little flat shoes are accumulating miles… and weariness. We want something else for summer, without sacrificing comfort or that easy look that goes with everything. A much more unique pair is just starting to shake things up.
Ballerinas remain a classic from dance, with their very thin sole, generally no more than 2.5 cm, and their rounded closed toe. Their discreet silhouette goes with almost any outfit, but their flatness and sometimes narrow toe can cause chafing, lack of cushioning and arch pain over time. And then, models inspired by the studio like jazz shoes, in leather with laces and a super flexible sole, remind us that we can reconcile style and flexibility.
Why look for an alternative to ballet flats this summer
With denim shorts, wide pants or Bermuda shorts, ballerinas can quickly give a very demure, almost youthful look, especially if the outfit is already minimalist. Many fashionistas want an alternative to ballet flats that further lengthens the leg and structures the silhouette without resorting to high heels. Because ultimately, we want immediate style, but also a shoe that we can wear all day.
The disadvantages of ballet flats also weigh in: poorly cushioned sole, limited support for the arch of the foot, risk of blisters, calluses and even plantar fasciitis with prolonged wear. A small heel of a few centimeters, on the contrary, distributes the support better than an extremely flat shoe. And here again, we are looking for a light and summery option, far from the massive moccasin or the office derby.
Leopard flip-flops-sandals with a small heel: the unique ally of our shorts and pants
This is exactly what the leopard flip-flops sandals with small heels, stars of the summer season, offer. A hybrid between flip-flops and dress sandals, they reveal the foot while enhancing it thanks to a discreet kitten heel. Their retro line, which elongates the leg without straining it, immediately gives a more chic side than a classic beach flip-flop, while remaining easy to put on.
Leopard print, long considered too “old”, is making a comeback on shoes and is now seen as a fashion basic. As a small touch on a sandal, it becomes the focal point of the look without ever overwhelming it. We’ve seen it on hot girls like @manondevelder, who pairs her flip-flop sandals with a flared two-tone dress, but the effect works just as well with denim shorts or flowy black pants. Mule moccasins and boat shoes remain good options, but this feline sandal brings a much more unique twist.
How to Wear These Leopard Flip-Flops with Shorts and Pants
With shorts, keep it simple: raw or white denim shorts, a close-fitting tank top, leopard print flip-flops and wicker basket worn on the shoulder. The open ankle and the small heel visually lengthen the leg, even if the shorts are a little baggy. A tailored linen Bermuda shorts, combined with a flowing shirt, immediately take on a Riviera feel thanks to this sandal, lighter than a moccasin but dressier than a slide.
As for pants, beige or ecru linen pants work wonderfully: combine them with a ribbed tank top in the same tones for a monochrome ensemble, with leopard sandals signing off the look. On straight 7/8 jeans, the small heel avoids the bunched effect and easily replaces a pump at the office. Just add a lightweight blazer and sunglasses for a casual chic silhouette that’s both comfortable and sharp.
What alternative to ballerinas to wear with shorts in summer?
Leopard flip-flop sandals with a small heel instantly enhance shorts, from raw jeans to tailored Bermuda shorts, while remaining easy to wear.
Are low heel leopard flip-flop sandals comfortable?
They offer more support than a flat ballerina thanks to their small heel, but it is better to avoid walking for miles in them on uneven ground.
With which pants to pair these leopard flip-flops-sandals?
7/8 straight jeans, wide linen pants or flowing black pants work very well, especially if the ankle remains visible.
Can you wear these leopard print flip-flops to the office?
Yes, with sober pants and an elegant top, they are a good substitute for ballet flats or too strict pumps.
Sources
- Grazia
“Goodbye ballerinas, here is the much more unique alternative that enhances all our shorts and pants”
- Grazia
“Goodbye ballet flats and moccasins, these podiatrist-approved dance shoes are the much more comfortable alternative for spring”
