If you haven’t heard of shoe brand Vivaia, you’re about to this autumn…
Every season brings with it a shoe that really takes off. Last year, it was the chunky loafer, and this autumn, the crown looks set to go to the ballet flat. Not the paper-thin pair you once wore to sixth-form discos, but a more adult version that’s designed to look elegant and feel wearable. The Mary Jane flat, everywhere on the catwalks for AW25, seals its place as the shoe to know for the end of summer.
In particular, Vivaia’s Almond-toe Mary-Jane AdaptAll flats are already gaining traction as a fashion insider favourite. The almond-shaped toe makes them sleeker than a round ballet pump, and the strap adds that collegiate edge we’re seeing across collections from Miu Miu to Tory Burch. But beyond the trend points, there’s something else setting them apart: comfort. A triple-layer cushioned sole has made them the flat shoe that even bunion sufferers can wear without regret. Instead of being a one-hour shoe, they’re proving to be an all-day option.
The knit upper fabric flexes to fit, the strap adjusts rather than digs and you can chuck them in the washing machine when the weather makes them messy. The nine colours and prints range from deep forest shades to neutral staples, meaning they slot into wardrobes built around blazers and wide-leg trousers just as easily as dresses and tights.
But don’t just take our word for it, shoppers are raving about them…
READ MORE: New Look just dropped the perfect Chanel-inspired ballet flats for under £20
One reviewer pens: “I doubted whether the almond toe would fit to my prominent bunion feet after up to now only wearing square toe shoes, but surprisingly they do! And they look gorgeous. To be honest a second pair of the same style did not fit well as it was a little bit tighter and therefore too uncomfortable to keep.”
Another says: “Love the look, mild cushioning inside, I wouldn’t say major arch support for those with that issue. The criss cross straps are snug, I’m assuming they’ll stretch a little as I wear them. All in all very happy with the purchase.”
“Love them. So comfortable & will be great for travel,” a third writes.
Fashion-wise, the timing is perfect. Ballet pumps and Mary Janes are two of the biggest footwear stories for autumn, styled on runways with everything from cropped tailoring to layered knits. The difference is that most runway versions aren’t made for the bus commute or a long day on your feet. These are.
At £120, they’re more of an investment than a throwaway high street flat, but that price tag has not slowed repeat purchases. Shoppers are going back for second and third pairs, which tells you everything you need to know about their staying power. However, if your budget doesn’t stretch that far, we’ve spotted a New Look ballet pump launch that gets you a timeless Chanel-inspired look for considerably less. The Black Quilted Faux Leather Ballet Flats are priced at just £19.99, and have that same quiet luxury look as the designer ones without breaking the bank.