INTRODUCING: THE BALLET SHOE 

The COS footwear collection is a fine balance of design and comfort, with styles that blend functionality with timelessness. A new series of ballet shoes embodies the ethos: defined by thoughtful craftsmanship and modern interpretations of classic silhouettes, the collection offers a refined take on sportswear codes for everyday dressing. 

Inspired by the world of dance, the design draws from movement with a soft structure, reimagined through the COS design lens in sleek satin and technical nylon, with leather and suede accents. A versatile silhouette, the COS ballet shoe transcends day-to-evening dress codes, working with casual weekend outfits and a curated travel wardrobe. 

Every detail is thoughtfully considered, from the split sole construction for ultra flexibility, to meticulous topstitching and finishes – each pair is designed for premium comfort and statement appeal. The collection spotlights distinct design codes, from the classic ballet flat and Mary Jane to the ballet trainer that strikes a contemporary note, minimally rendered in supple leather or technical nylon. 

COLOURWAYS & MATERIALS 

The colours of the collection evoke the ballet flat in soft neutrals – versatile black and rich Bordeaux for the autumn transition, while light-catching silver gives a modern twist. Classic iterations in smooth leather and lustrous satin pay homage to the original inspiration, while design-led variations explore patent leather, a suede and nylon hybrid trainer, tactile suede and pony-hair effect leather options and styles that explore delicate ruching techniques. 

THE CLASSIC BALLET FLAT 

Directly drawn from the original dance silhouette, the ballet flat is sculpturally simple with graceful lines and a rounded toe that follows the contours of the foot. Timeless yet modern, the COS ballet shoe collection offers premium options in buttery leather, statement patent leather and supple suede with neat topstitching and a square-toe version with buckled straps, available in a diverse range of sizes and colourways, while glossy satin ballet pumps with lace-up bows recall classic ballerina styles. 

THE MODERN BALLET TRAINER 

The ballet trainer, or ‘sneakerina’ – a portmanteau for part sneaker, part ballerina – combines a casual athletic silhouette with the elegant appeal of a classic flat, a natural fit for those looking to balance functionality with a touch of playful naivety. A hybrid design proven popular for its comfort, aesthetic and ability to be easily styled, the modern ballet shoe is imagined in a minimal tonal leather construction, or a perfectly balanced combination of technical nylon with suede trims, complete with split soles and laces that lend the shoe a refined yet sporty appearance. 

HOW TO STYLE BALLET SHOES 

The ballet flats trend can seamlessly translate to the everyday wardrobe. In summer, accompany ballet trainers with a silky slip dress for the ultimate contrast, pair the classic ballet flat with a sleek, yet feminine outfit of ‘90s-inspired pieces in neutral satin and silk, or simply style with everyday essentials by adding a pop of colour to a white T-shirt and jeans. On holiday, pair suede ballet flats or the Mary-Jane iteration with a lightweight maxi dress. And for the transitional months, the low-profile silhouette of ballet trainers can help play off preppy outerwear, styled with knitted socks.  

 
SIZING & FIT GUIDE 

Available in inclusive sizing, the COS ballet shoe collection is crafted for a comfortable fit that suits a variety of foot shapes. Although designed with a narrow silhouette, they fit true to size,f while lightweight, flexible soles offer all-day wearability. For half sizes, we recommend sizing up for the best fit. Keep your most frequently worn socks in mind when selecting a size. Finely woven cotton socks should fit comfortably in your normal size, while thicker wool and cashmere styles may call for a little extra space for optimal comfort. 

HOW TO CARE FOR SUEDE & LEATHER BALLET SHOES 

Everything in our collection is crafted with timelessness in mind. Preserve the look and quality of your suede and leather shoes with these simple care routines.   

COS SUEDE BALLET SHOE CARE:  

Suede shoes embody timeless design and texture – the material's delicate nap requires a gentle approach. To keep them looking their best, follow these thoughtful steps for care and maintenance.    

HOW TO CLEAN SUEDE BALLET SHOES

• Ensure the shoe is completely dry before cleaning.    
• Clean by brushing away any superficial dirt using a slightly damp cloth or suede brush.   
• For stubborn marks, use a specialised suede eraser to lift stains without damaging the material.  
• If deeper cleaning is required, consider a suede cleaner applied sparingly with a soft cloth.   
• Follow the grain of the suede with a gentle amount of pressure.     
• For tougher stains, seek a specialist suede cleaner service.  

HOW TO PROTECT SUEDE BALLET SHOES

• Prevention is an essential step in suede shoe care. Apply a protective suede spray before wearing your shoes for the first time. This invisible layer repels water and resists dirt, helping maintain their natural finish. Reapply periodically, especially after cleaning.   
• Store away from direct sunlight and heat, such as radiators.  
• For longer storage, wrap shoes in tissue paper and place in a shoebox.  
• Rotate your suede shoes regularly to allow them to rest between wears.   
• If the shoes get wet, let them air dry naturally, avoiding direct heat sources that can stiffen the material.   
• To maintain their shape, insert shoe trees or stuff them with paper while drying. 

COS LEATHER BALLET SHOE CARE:

Leather shoes are an enduring choice, valued for their perennial appeal. With the right care, they can remain a cornerstone of your wardrobe for years.  

HOW TO CLEAN LEATHER BALLET SHOES 

• Spot clean leather with a slightly damp cloth.   
• For a more thorough clean, use a mild leather cleaner applied gently in circular motions.  
• Buff using a specialist leather balm to condition the leather and keep it supple.  
• Allow them to dry naturally, avoiding heat sources that could dry out the leather.    

HOW TO PROTECT LEATHER BALLET SHOES 

• Protection begins with preparation: apply a quality leather protector before wearing your trainers for the first time. This acts as a barrier against water and stains without altering the material’s natural texture. 
• Repeat this step periodically, especially after cleaning.  
• Wooden shoe trees help retain leather’s shape and reduce creasing that can happen with wear.