Another NYFW post...
This week at NYFW, one shoe silhouette kept popping up again and again: the sneaker–ballerina hybrid. Think of it as a mash-up of a sporty trainer and a dainty flat — sleek, unexpected, and weirdly everywhere.
From Miu Miu’s gymnasium ballerinas in suede and mesh, to wallet-friendly, Gu’s square-toed slip-ons, to Puma’s Speedcat Ballets (arguably the most popular style), the hybrid feels like the perfect update to the ballet flat revival we’ve been seeing for the past few years. My personal favorite? Miu Miu’s bleached nappa ballerinas — slightly deconstructed, perfectly undone, and begging for a sock moment!!!!
What I love most about this trend is the versatility. I’ve seen them styled downtown with micro-shorts and oversized shirts, with midi skirts and tanks, and everywhere in between. They’re the kind of shoe that transforms depending on how you pair them — and that’s where our socks come in.
A cushioned court sock or a ribbed grip sock gives this shoe more edge, adds texture, and makes it that much more wearable from Pilates class to the after-show dinner. Socks not only balance the proportions but make the look feel intentional — not like you just slipped into ballet class by mistake.
How we'd style these sneakers with Café Après socks.
If you’re ready to test-drive the sneaker–ballerina hybrid, here’s how we’d pair them with some of our Café Après favorites:
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Puma Speedcat Ballets × The Spottswood Crew
A retro-sporty shoe deserves a retro-sporty sock. The full-foot grip on Spottswood adds security while the stripe detail plays up the track-inspired silhouette. -
Miu Miu Bleached Nappa Ballerinas × The Perry Ankle Grip
These undone, deconstructed flats feel effortless — pair them with Perry’s cushioned footbed and ribbed arch support to echo that balance of nonchalance and structure. -
Gu Square-Toe Slip-Ons × The Court Quarter
Sleek lines deserve a touch of texture. Livingston’s cushioned toe and heel give polish to Gu’s architectural minimalism, while still making it comfortable enough to run around the city.