I Ordered 9 Ballet Flats, but Only Kept This Pair From Charles and Keith

I’m in the midst of a wardrobe crisis triggered by the fact that I’m just a few months shy of my 30th birthday. My style has not really evolved in a decade, and that makes me feel somewhat stagnant. I need a slight tweak—or at least, more of a variety—to mirror the supposed wisdom and maturity I’ve gained. Randomly, this is where Charles and Keith’s Satin Bow Mary Jane Flats come into play. 

Despite the fact that ballet flats have been everywhere over the past year (and will continue to be), I have not worn the style in literal decades. It’s always seemed oppressively uncomfortable and impractical for someone who has flat-ish feet, a heavy gait, and gets in their daily 10,000 steps. But I wanted a pair of aesthetically light, non-steel-toed shoes (I’m partial to Dr. Martens) that represented a literal step forward for me. After experiencing the chicness and comfort of the  Charles and Keith Satin Bow Mary Jane Flats, I get why the brand is popular with celebrities like Nicole Kidman, Oprah, and Jennifer Lopez.

Charles and Keith Satin Bow Mary Jane Flats

I put myself through a non-metaphorical Cinderella experience; I ordered, test drove (relax, only around the house), and returned nine pairs of ballet flats before finding this pair. The problems across the pairs were the same: the soles were flat and thin, which was painful for even moderately prolonged walking, the shoes were too narrow and creased near the toes, and the backs were rigid like wood. 

These Charles and Keith ballet flats are the opposite of all that—and then some. Not only do they hug my feet but don’t suffocate them, but there was no breaking-in period. Additionally, the thin insoles are surprisingly supportive, and they keep their shape regardless of the mileage I subject them to. The big bonus is that thanks to the Mary Jane strap, they look cute with socks, thus fulfilling a lifelong wish of channeling Eloise. 

I’m still not universally convinced of the practicality of ballet flats, but I am lifting my ban on the style, at least for Charles and Keith. Below, shop more comfy flats from the brand.

Metallic Bow Pointed-Toe Ballet Flats

Lyric Linen and Satin Bow Slingback Flats