Girls' Barefoot Ballet Flats (3)

Parties, weddings and school concerts. These keep the pretty ballet shape and give growing toes their space, so she can spend the whole afternoon running around in them.

Dress shoes that survive the party

Children’s dress shoes are usually the narrowest, stiffest shoes they own, bought for one occasion and worn until someone takes them off under a table. The shape is the problem: pointed at the front, rigid underfoot, and not built for a child who will inevitably end up dancing.

Barefoot ballet flats keep the look and change the fit. The toe box follows the natural spread of the toes, the sole bends with each step, and the whole shoe is light. She can wear them for the ceremony and still be running around at the reception.

For occasions and for school

Neutral shades work for school concerts, photographs and family events. Softer colors and metallics suit weddings and parties, where they pair with dresses and tights.

For everyday wear, sneakers and low-cut shoes are the practical choice, and school shoes cover the term.

Fit and staying on

A flat has less holding it than a strapped shoe, so the fit at the heel matters. Some models use elastic panels or a shaped topline to keep them secure during a lot of movement. Growing room at the front, heel staying put — the same balance as any slip-on.