Ballerinas: the end of a monarchy?

The ballerina, after having dominated the realm of the flat shoe for such a long time, seems to be moving over to make room for other easy-to-wear shoes with a much more masculine look.

It is often believed that certain pieces considered "basics" are safe from the trend turnover. While this turnover may spare many of our wardrobe classics, sometimes more profound changes can render outdated that which used to be timeless.

After having become an essential for so many young women, the ballerina is no longer the belle of the ball. The Repetto BB's pale in comparison to the more masculine shoes that have seduced today's style princesses. At a time when minimalism and classicism seem to be de rigueur, brogues, moccasins, Richelieux and other flat shoes are charming the crowds with their unisex look fitting perfectly into the current context.

It has become much more fashionable to trade in one's Maloles for a pair of brogues in order to give a bit of a bite to overly casual or romantic ensembles. With or without laces, this shoe style gives a punch to a summer wardrobe by adding a dandy or tomboy touch, depending on the case. Throwing on a pair to de-girly a virginal white baby doll, to give a twist to a pair of jean shorts, or even to accompany a total denim look, is highly advisable.

In addition, from chic Jackie Kennedy moccasins to Charlie Winston brogues, all are to be worn with almost any look, substituting for canvas tennis shoes as well as gladiators and chic sandals. The idea is to make them quickly acquire that slightly roots feel that the gentlewomen adore.

In the end, in order to convince the fashionistas to put their ballerinas into storage, it may be enough to remind them that a look is often born of strong, uncompromising choices. Avoiding the so-called timeless fashion classics in favor of a neo-basic will not be difficult. By creating a new silhouette, these shoes may renew the idea of femininity in an unexpected way.