There is no escaping the ballet flat this spring. The chic, French-girl staple that took over our shoe collections in the early aughts is now appearing in TikTok feeds and on runways. But, thanks to Ganni, the basic ballet flat has been given a Copenhagen edge with studs, spikes, buckles, and bling aplenty. It’s safe to say studded ballet flats are now a fashion fan favorite.
So, of course, we were hooked — although the popularity of the style may mean they fly off shelves before we can secure a pair of our own. Luckily, thanks to Ganni's influence, buckled and studded ballet flats have been given the green light across the fashion industry, with a handful of other popular brands starting to bling up the simple shoe. Keep scrolling to discover our favorite adorned ballet flat finds from Free People, Reformation, Dear Frances, and more.
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The OG buckled ballet flat is, of course, incredibly popular — so much so that getting your hands on a pair may not be an easy task. Crafted from calf leather with a pointed toe, two buckles, and a slingback rear, they’re certainly an upgrade from the basic ballet flat. To break away from black, you may want to go for red, white, or snakeskin if you're feeling daring.
Ganni White Wide Welt Buckle Ballerinas, $, available at GanniImage Courtesy of Ganni
Dear Frances Balla Flat Crystals, Large Black
This highly embellished pair is a glitzy take on Dear Frances' chic mesh ballet flats, which have won the hearts of several R29 editors. While they are a luxury buy, the quality and delicate nature of these shoes are second to none, and guaranteed to garner compliments for years to come.
Dear Frances Balla Crystals, Large Black, $, available at Dear Frances
Free People Mystic Mary Jane Flats
Free People is always a great place to find luxe-looking pieces at an affordable price, and the brand doesn’t disappoint when it comes to striking shoes. Making a case for Mary Janes, this soft leather style has been instantly upgraded with rounded silver studs across both the shoe and the strap. For those tempted by the trend yet not too fond of OTT types, this could be a great place to start.
FP Collection Mystic Mary Jane Flats, $, available at Free People
Steve Madden Vinetta Flat
Made from faux leather, the shoes are slightly shiny with flat silver studs and a delicate strap across the top of the foot. If you’re after the Fashion Week look on a budget, this is certainly the pair I’d pick up.
Steve Madden Vinetta Flat, $, available at Revolve
Reformation Bethany Ballet Flat
More like a Mary Jane, these Reformation shoes certainly look both functional and fashionable. Playing with a more classic ballet pump shape, the supple leather has a soft, round-toe curve sharpened up with silver studs that sit around the outside, while an oversized buckle adds extra interest.
Reformation Bethany Ballet Flat, $, available at ReformationImage Courtesy of Reformation
Sam Edelman Michaela Stud Mary Jane Flat
If you're looking for a bedazzled moment, this Sam Edelman pair makes studs the standout star. Completely covered in rounded metallic-shaded embellishments, they really are a pick for those who buy into bling, instantly livening up any outfit, from a simple pair of jeans to an all-black co-ord. (They also come in white and red, if that's more your speed.)
Sam Edelman MICHAELA STUD MARY JANE FLAT, $, available at Sam Edelman
Pull & Bear Ballet Flats With Studded Buckles
Breaking up the sea of black, this wonderful red style is rather striking. Leaning more into the buckle trend than studs, one long wraparound strap sits across the front, holding the shoe in place while creating a standout style.
Pull & Bear BALLET FLATS WITH STUDDED BUCKLES, $, available at Pull & Bear
Stradivarius Ballet Flats With Studded Straps
A basic fabric ballet pump gets an edge from two silver studded cross-straps covering the top of the foot. They're not only chic and simple, but they also come at a purse-friendly price.
Stradivarius cross strap ballet shoe in black, $, available at ASOS
Alaïa Leather Mary Jane Flats With Allover Studs
On the luxury side of the trend, these Maje pumps certainly add a punk-like vibe to the basic ballet flat. With studs adorning the soft white leather, they’re incredibly stylish yet still simple in shape. Again, they’re selling out rather rapidly, so if this is the pair that catches your eye, be sure to act fast.
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With its functionality and heat-retaining qualities, the puffer coat is a staple of practical cold-weather style. Yet, despite being a savior during snow and frosty temperatures, the puffy jacket is still a styling mystery. If you layer it too much, you’ll end up looking like the Michelin Man. If you just throw it on and go, the outfit will be as bland as butterless toast.
As a Caribbean-born East Coast resident who continues to despise the cold, I’ve long been trying to perfect my puffer coat styling. Having rejected the idea of owning one for so many years (mainly because I just found it ugly), it’s now become a trusty armor in the battle for winter style, as well as colder-than usual-spring days, which I regularly reach for during the February seasonal slump.
Thankfully, the fall/winter 2023 runways and designers like Gabriela Hearst and 3.1 Phillip Lim offered chicer takes on the style, including maxi-length quilted coats and cinched-waist versions Meanwhile, the street style during the latest edition of New York Fashion Week, which had extreme weather changes from spring-like days to a snowstorm, was a display of shiny puffers, blazers worn over quilted vests, and nylon jackets paired with flouncy skirts.
Ahead, all the best ways to style a puffer coat that are actually fashionable.
Puffer Coat Styling Idea: Add A Skirt
A skirt isn’t necessarily anyone’s first instinct when it comes to cold-weather dressing, which is why this contrast works so well. Call it the “Wrong Bottom Theory,” if you will. For this outfit, I chose a fitted slip skirt that balances out the shapeless look of the puffer jacket, pairing it with elevated accessories, including knee-high boots and a chain mini bag. While it may be a dressy outfit, the puffer (which can be layered with a long-sleeved top underneath) keeps the look casual, making it ideal for work, too.
Puffer Coat Styling Idea: Lean Into Athleisure
I reach for my puffer coat when the cold-weather sartorial fog hits so hard I can’t be bothered with styling an outfit. And that is okay. Moments like these are ideal for leaning into the sporty nature of the puffer coat. To tune up the outfit, I added a tailored wide-leg pant, giving a nice contrast to the sneakers, as well as a leather slouchy bag.
Puffer Coat Styling Idea: Wear It Under A Blazer
People have long worn hoodies under blazers; why not use a puffer as a layering piece, too? Granted this needs to meet a few criteria: Your puffer needs to be hooded and thin, while the blazer has to be extra oversized. The buttoned blazer adds an elevated twist to an otherwise sporty outfit that can be worn with jeans or even a skirt, as shown above.
Puffer Coat Styling Idea: Pair It With Wide Leg Jeans
Wide-leg jeans are one of the year’s biggest denim trends, and the perfect piece to balance out the Michelin Man-level of volume that comes with a puffer jacket. For this outfit, I opted for a white pair, making the black-and-white combo a good canvas for a pop of color in the form of Mary Jane heels. A key part of this styling tip is to not be afraid of volume on the jeans — the wider, the better.
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We all know and love Uniqlo for its sleek and simple clothing and accessories. Japanese casual wear is always fashionable but nearly never trendy (which is not a diss, by the way — all the cool kids wear Uniqlo and its many collabs). The classic pieces are the building blocks of a high-quality, long-lasting wardrobe. And that’s even more true for the brand’s LifeWear collection, a range of elevated everyday essentials, which has just been refreshed via a second sought-after collaboration with British designer Clare Waight Keller.
In September 2023, Waight Keller first became the designer of Uniqlo : C, a womenswear collection within Uniqlo LifeWear. Both the prior Fall/Winter 2023 drop (which R29 readers ate up and helped sell out, according to our anonymous shopping data) and the new Spring/Summer 2024 drop are full of effortlessly modern pieces that prioritize comfort and functionality. “In this second collection for UNIQLO : C, I wanted to explore the concept of movement through lightness,” Waight Keller said in a statement, adding, “Fluidity and freshness were key elements of the spirit.”
Uniqlo : C’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection launches globally today, February 22, both in-store and online, and we anticipate that the pieces are going to sell out just as quickly as they did the last time. If you didn’t get to cop a Clare Waight Keller x Uniqlo original the last time, here’s your second chance to hop on the new collection, which you can shop now below!
What’s in the new Uniqlo : C collection?
The Spring/Summer 2024 collection features 35 items across separates, outerwear, dresses, bags, and shoes, all designed to be layering staples for the capsule wardrobe of our dreams. “I think that Spring represents a time of transition where the seasons change, and our wardrobes need the same flexibility. I love the mix between tailored and relaxed styles,” Waight Keller explained.
Each piece comes in a range of neutrals with the occasional pops of blue, green, red (which, as we know, is a trending color for 2024), and abstract prints. The versatile collection also holds some “office siren” workwear, casual baseball caps, and an oversized, faux leather version of the brand’s round mini shoulder bag, which we’re personally very excited about. Scroll on for a closer look at the launch.
Layering isn’t only for the winter. It’s the perfect solution for that weird in-between spring weather, and we just know you won’t want to take off any of Uniqlo : C’s lightweight, transitional outerwear once you put them on. Check out long statement styles, like the cotton twill trench coat — which was a massive hit in the last drop — and cropped drawstring and belted jackets for everyday wear.
The fluid silhouettes in this collection are best showcased through its dresses and skirts. Whether you opt for the sheer pleated fabrics or crinkled crepe jersey, each material has a lightness, and drape to it that produces effortlessly ethereal looks. Whether you’re in the mood for an upgraded pencil skirt or a not-so-basic cami dress, Uniqlo : C has it for you.
This collection is full of elevated basics, especially the tops. There’s a little bit of everything, from refined T-shirts and knitted sweater vests to flowy button-downs and lace-like cardigans. Layer up the sheer blouse with the knit vest or one of the many cropped T-shirts with the checked button-down worn open, and you’ve got yourself a look.
Similar to the previous collection, this drop too focuses on wide-leg styles. So if you’re in need of a wide-leg work pant (our personal preference for the office) or trendy wide-leg jeans (our personal preference for late-night hangouts) in light, dark, or spring-y blush pink washes, Uniqlo : C features a small but mighty selection to peruse.
Waight Keller’s oversized, faux leather take on Uniqlo’s mini round shoulder bag is back again for this second drop, but this time, it’s also accompanied by another bag. The faux leather puffy bag is the slightly more elevated and elegant option, while still being modern and playful. The collection also includes classic and versatile loafers, the perfect white sneaker, and plaid baseball caps to keep the springtime sun out of your eyes.
Welcome to Refinery29 Loves, the monthly news bulletin where you’ll find the best things to shop and see in fashion and beauty right now.
February has arrived. We’re finally past the dreariness of January and heading full steam ahead into a new month that celebrates falling in love — whether that’s with a new romance, a new movie or book, or, for many of us here at Refinery29, new fashion and beauty products.
And there’s something for everyone. For those searching for a new edition for their handbag collections, there’s not one but two launches we have our their eyes on. Plus, skincare lovers can indulge in a serum that has been 10 years in the making. From hair oils by the legendary Sam McKnight to Simone Rocha’s Valentine’s Day collection, click through to discover everything that is on our radar this February.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
Susan Alexandra x Vans
NYC accessories label Susan Alexandra — known for its playful, whimsical, and colorful approach to fashion — has just unveiled its a limited-edition footwear collection, with skatewear brand Vans. Called “Fantasy,” the collab features two styles. The first is the balletcore-inspired Style 93 DX, a Mary-Jane covered in pink glitter and featuring a tiny rosette and satin ribbon detailing that can be laced around your ankle. The second, the Old Skool 36 DX sneaker, also embraces the girly-trend with green glitter, beaded daisies, and floral laces.
Vans x Susan Alexandra Style 93 DX Shoe, $, available at Vans
PINK by Frankies Bikinis
Summer vibes are setting in early (not that we’re complaining) with a new collaboration between Victoria’s Secret PINK and Frankies Bikinis. There will be multiple drops to the new collection, which finds the swimwear brand’s founder and creative director, Francesca Aiello, reimagining classic PINK silhouettes in Frankies’ signature cool, breezy beach vibes. This first drop, which is fronted by a campaign starring model-entrepreneur Devon Lee Carlson, features separates, one-pieces and apparel in bright hues and cheeky berry prints, with prices ranging from $34.95 to $59.95.
PINK by Frankies Bikinis Reign Bikini Top, $, available at Victoria's Secret
PINK by Frankies Bikinis Hudson Bikini Bottom, $, available at Victoria's Secret
PINK by Frankies Bikinis Brooklyn Cotton Tee, $, available at Victoria's Secret
Hill House Spring Collection
When we’re pushing through the gloomy gray skies, wet weather, and cold temperatures of February, there’s only one cure: dreaming of spring fashion. Enter Hill House’s new collection, the brand’s first big release of the year. The brand behind the Nap Dress dropped 20 new styles, five new prints (inspired by acclaimed artist Florine Stettheimer, known in part for her love of florals), and new takes on long-standing best-sellers that will have you feeling sunnier just by looking at them. Our fave? The soft blue peony bouquet print, which can be seen on hair bows, billowing maxi skirts, and more. There’s also the Elsie, a brand-new Nap Dress with ribbon shoulder ties and a tiered skirt.
Hill House Home The Elise Nap Dress, $, available at Hill House Home
Khy Drop 001 Restock
Miss out on one of the slick, edgy faux-leather pieces from Khy’s first drop when Kylie Jenner launched her fashion line back in October 2023? (Items did sell out within days, after all.) Well, you’re in lock. Ahead of new 2024 drops, the brand, which is inspired by Jenner’s personal taste, has restocked four of the best-selling pieces from Drop 001, made alongside Berlin-based label Namilia. The pieces that fans will have a second-chance at include the Faux Leather Cropped Hooded Jacket, the Long Sleeve Mini Dress, the Seamless Legging, and the Seamless Mock Neck Long Sleeve, all of which are available in sizes XXS to 4X.
Khy Faux Leather Long Sleeve Mini Dress, $, available at Khy
Nike x Megan Thee Stallion
Calling all hotties: Megan Thee Stallion has teamed up with Nike for her first apparel and footwear collab, fittingly called Hot Girl Systems. The fast-selling, size-inclusive line is designed to move around in and includes flame prints, reflective materials, and Y2K-esque graphics emblazoned across bodysuits, sports bras, shorts, and more. The drop also includes a fire-and-ice-inspired leather sneaker, the Air Max 97 “Something For the Hotties” By You, which come in four colorways, feature strips of glitter, and can be customized.
Nike x Megan Thee Stallion Air Max 97 "Something For Thee Hotties" By You, $, available at Nike
Naomi x BOSS
The power of Naomi Campbell is well known, so it’s no surprise that BOSS went to the world-famous supermodel to help expand their world of womenswear. Creating a dedicated capsule collection with travel in mind (who remembers Naomi’s iconic plane cleaning video?), the aesthetic feels classic, cool, and sophisticated. For those who enjoy timeless BOSS tailoring, the collection includes an ’80s-style oversized gray pinstripe suit, alongside a more versatile single-breasted black blazer. However, if you enjoy a less formal look while country hopping, the capsule also includes leopard-print hoodies and leggings, alongside more smart-casual premium basics like cashmere knits and Oxford shirts.
Naomi x Boss Full-Length Bodysuit in Stretch Jersey, $, available at Boss
PUMA X lemlem
Working together for the second time, sporting supergiant Puma has teamed up with sustainable clothing brand lemlem to bring 14 new pieces to the activewear space. The pastel-colored collection was inspired by Ethiopian hand-woven patterns, making it sure to stand out among a sea of average work out outfits. Outside of the range of high-impact sports bras and graphic leggings, the collection also includes a new set of sneakers, the PRW NITRO™ SQD LEMLEM sports shoes. Available in a lilac, rose quartz, and chartreuse colorways, the collection is made for those who like their activewear both fun and functional.
Puma x Lemlem Low Impact Bra, $, available at lemlem
Puma x Lemlem High Waist 7/8 Tights, $, available at lemlem
Puma x Lemlem Sweatband Set, $, available at lemlem
Martine Rose x Clarks
While Clarks may have once been synonymous with sensible school shoes, in recent years the brand has become a go-to for fashion types thanks to the popularity of the “Wallabee” silhouette and collaborations with famous faces. For February, the British brand is enlisting British-Jamaican designer Martine Rose as guest creative director for a brand-new bed-inspired collection. The nostalgic collaboration (which takes note from archival 1980s Clarks advertising) plays with the concept of comfort, spotlighting puffy Oxfords and padded sandals. But despite its soft, pillowy feel, the looks are all about making a statement, with the pink snake-print lace ups and maroon loafers standing as our personal favorites.
Martine Rose x Clarks Martine Rose Loafer 2, $, available at Clarks
Simone Rocha Launches "The Valentine Bag"
Straight off the back of a hugely successful Couture Week collection with Jean Paul Gaultier, Simone Rocha is launching sweet treats for Valentine’s Day. The Irish designer is bringing love in the form of a top-handle Valentine bag featuring the brand’s signature floral pearls. Available in two sizes, the handcrafted leather bags come in four different colorways, including classic cream and baby pink, alongside moodier iterations like oxblood and jet black. Each bag comes with two customizations: a crystal beaded charm (complete with the designer’s synonymous bow) or a pearl crossbody strap. Happy Love Day, indeed.
Simone Rocha Valentine Bag With Beaded Flower, $, available at Simone Rocha
Hair by Sam McKnight Launches Love Me Do Nourishing Oil
When we think about some of the world’s most famous faces, such as Princess Diana, Kate Moss, and Lady Gaga, one thing they all have in common is their hairstylist: Sam McKnight. A legend in his own right, McKnight has been behind some of the most iconic, high-profile magazine covers and runway looks. Now, his namesake brand is launching a “foolproof” hair oil that’s perfect for the dry winter season. The serum-oil hybrid includes three seed oils for extra nourishment and deep, penetrating conditioning so your hair can wave goodbye to flyaways and welcome in weightless shine.
Hair By Sam McKnight Love Me Do Nourishing Shine Oil, $, available at Hair by Sam McKnight
Coachtopia Friends Product Drop
February may be synonymous with romance, but Coach’s sister line, Coachtopia, aims to celebrate friendship this Love Month with the launch of their Friends collection. Designed by Coachtopia beta community member Sabrina Lau, the capsule toasts to the importance of BFFs via a range of ready-to-wear and accessories. For those looking for heart-adorned pieces, don’t fret: The collection includes a selection of graphic tees, hoodies, and even a puffy lime heart skirt. Another highlight is a range of handbags designed by Marissa Crider of Offbeat Sweet constructed from post-consumer waste.
Coachtopia Cropped Tee: Floating Heart, $, available at Coach
La Roche-Posay Launches Mela B3 Serum
French pharmacies are known for their gentle but effective ingredients, and La Roche-Posay is perhaps the most recognizable of the bunch. For winter, the brand launched an anti-hyperpigmentation serum that aims to correct the appearance of dark spots (even if they’re longstanding) and skin unevenness. Working alongside well-known skin saviors such as niacinamide, retinol, and hyaluronic acid is Melasyl™, a new, multi-patented ingredient described as an active “melanin trapper.” The powerful yet lightweight serum brightens the most stubborn dark spots while maintaining the ever-important skin barrier. Expect visible results in just 12 weeks.
La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Dark Spot Serum, $, available at La Roche-Posay
Veronica Beard Debuts Handbags
Known best for its dickey jackets and classically cool denim, New York-based fashion brand Veronica Beard is expanding its offering with the introduction of handbags. Having forayed into footwear in 2017, the brand’s newest non-apparel launch includes seven silhouettes in a range of sizes, colors, and fabrics such as leather, canvas and raffia. The standout design, the Goody Bag, boasts a drawstring top handle and three distinct colorways (including an eye-catching olive green). It is designed as a practical addition to any wardrobe as it can be worn as a crossbody or shoulder bag. “When we started designing handbags, we thought a lot about what would complement our customer’s lifestyle. We want to give her the dream handbag, crafted with luxurious materials and finishes, a bag that is chic, timeless, and versatile,” cofounder Veronica Miele Beard said in a press release.
Veronica Beard Crest Lock Bucket Bag, $, available at Veronica Beard
L'Agence Debuts First Swimwear Collection
L'Agence — known for its effortless blend of laidback California vibes and Parisian sophistication — is kicking off pool season early. The L.A.-based brand just launched a 58-piece swimwear collection inspired by ’70s-era glam and scenic Côte d'Azure. Find bikini separates and one-pieces — most of which are made with shaping fabric and feature underwire support — as well as cover-ups that can also be worn going out and crystal-embellished mesh sarongs. Prices range from $100 to $425.
This candle isn’t new — in fact the Dublin-based company dates back to 1488!! — but they are 1000% worth a shoutout. The weighty pieces look like stunning centrepieces, the scents are subtle but robust (my fave, Dublin Dusk, has notes of oud, cedar and ginger) and they last way longer than a typical Bachelor relationship. (P.S. That long burn time is partially due to a two-day pouring technique.) I’ll take 100, please.
