Denim Dresses and Ballet Flats Is the Practical and Chic Combo I’ll Be Wearing All Summer Long

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This summer, I’ve been benching all my jeans and reaching for denim dresses to wear with ballet flats instead. It’s not that I’m totally retiring my favorite jeans, but they can be stifling and impractical on hot days.

Denim dresses, however, offer the best of both worlds: They’re just as versatile as any pant in my closet, but have the kind of lightness the season calls for. Pair them with a pair of comfortable and chic ballet flats, and it’s instantly a fresh and sophisticated look that works just as well as the office as it does on a date or a weekend hang. I’d argue that a denim dress and ballet flats is just as comfortable as any jeans and sneakers combo—if not more so in the summer.

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Christian Vierig/Getty Images

The best part of this outfit idea is that it can be interpreted in so many different ways. Whether you prefer a denim shirt dress or a strapless number, there is something for every taste, body, and occasion. As for ballerina shoes, the popular footwear comes in multiple colors, shapes, and finishes. So whichever way you go, you’re guaranteed a trendy, functional, and very chic outfit.

Still not totally convinced? Some inspiration for how to style denim dresses and ballet flats this summer, below.

A denim mini dress + colorful ballet flats

Jacopo Raule

A sleeveless mini is a great summer staple because it can be worn as is or styled with a blouse or T-shirt underneath for added personality. It’s also the perfect neutral base to go with your most colorful, attention-getting flats. You know those shoes that never seem to go with anything? Now they do.

Rails Pleated Denim Minidress

Betsey Johnson Laylah Ballet Flat

Denim shirt dress + neutral ballet flatsJoe Maher/BFC/Getty Images

The shirt dress is a classic in any form, but the structured silhouette works particularly well with a stiff denim fabric. It also walks the line between casual and elevated so well that you can wear it to the office or at a weekend brunch. A version with flutter sleeves, like the one pictured above, looks particularly fresh and feminine with ballet flats.

Ezapine Denim Shirt Dress

Coach Outlet C Rivet Mary Jane

White denim dress + ankle-strap ballet flatsHAMBURG, GERMANY – MAY 28: Marlies Pia Pfeifhofer is seen wearing oval tortoiseshell-framed sunglasses from Corlin, gold hoop earrings from Ole Lynggaard, an oversized brown suede jacket from Zara, an off-white denim A-line dress from Zara, a rectangular brown leather “Puzzle” bag from Loewe, two gold rings, and black suede Mary Jane ballerina flats from Chatelles on May 28, 2025 in Hamburg, Germany. (Photo by Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images)Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images

Replacing your favorite jeans with a denim dress can apply to white jeans too. A white denim dress is not only practical in the heat, but looks really stylish too. It doesn’t matter whether or not you choose a structured style or a looser fit, just look for one that suits your personality and needs.

Levi’s Denim Tee Dress

Loft Crochet Chain Ankle Strap Ballet Flats

Sleeveless denim dress + metallic ballerinasEdward Berthelot/Getty Images

For the hottest of days, a sleeveless dress is a must. Find one with a structured belt, and you won’t have to spend much time on accessories either—especially if you go for a pair of metallic ballet flats in silver, gold, or even copper tones. The contrast between the casual denim and the dressy shine of the shoe creates the perfect balance for a night out.

Petal & Pup Sleeveless Denim Mini Shirtdress

Free People Gemini Ballet Flats

Fitted denim dress + statement ballet flatsGotham

Going to a social event where you want to look sophisticated without sacrificing comfort? A denim dress with a fitted pencil skirt (and just enough stretch) enhances the figure and works for both day and night. Go fancier with the ballet flats here—whether it’s a pointy, sharp-toed pair, something with a delicate T-strap, or ankle wraps—to mimic the kind of elegance typically found in heels.

Free People Caitlin Denim Midi Dress

Loeffler Randall Ankle Wrap Ballet Flat

Flared denim dress + basic ballet flatsJeremy Moeller/Getty Images

If you’re looking for a more romantic look, try a dress with an A-line or flutter skirt that adds movement to the silhouette. A dress as statement-making as this requires a shoe that supports rather than stands out, though don’t be afraid to play with a little color or detailing that offers some personality without overtaking the outfit.

Levi’s Alessie Bustier Dress

Ann Taylor Woven Mary Jane Ballet Flats

A version of this story was previously published in Glamour Mexico.