Why Bella Hadid’s Ballet Sneakers Keep Selling Out—and How to Wear Them

The ballet-sneaker hybrid is officially fashion’s new obsession, and Bella Hadid’s favorite Vivaia Sneakerinas are leading the charge toward comfort and chic.

By Medha deb
Created on

Ballet sneakers are more than just a fleeting social media trend; they’re the footwear sensation shaking up the intersection of comfort and street style. Spearheaded by Bella Hadid, whose penchant for blending balletcore with ‘90s cool has sent searches for these hybrids soaring, the Vivaia Sneakerina now sits at the top of every on-trend wish list.

The Rise of the Ballet Sneaker: A Hybrid Revolution

Ballet flats and chunky sneakers have long danced on opposite ends of the fashion spectrum. But in 2025, the two merged in an unexpected fusion. The result? Lightweight sneaker-ballet hybrids—daintier than sporty runners, comfier than classic flats.

  • Chic enough for Paris, yet pragmatic for pounding city sidewalks.
  • Recommended by A-listers and fashion editors alike.
  • Searches for “ballet sneakers” climbed over 1000% this season.
  • Bella Hadid, Charli XCX, Lola Tung, and other celebrities have propelled this shift by choosing accessible styles over high-end alternatives.

Unlike some viral trends that sizzle out, the ballet sneaker shows real staying power. Designers are releasing new iterations, and street style photos from Paris to New York highlight their versatility.

The Vivaia Sneakerina: A Cinderella Story

While luxury houses experiment with avant-garde ballet shoes, it was Bella Hadid’s repeated outings in the Vivaia Satin Cristina Sneakerinas that made this particular pair unmissable. When Hadid was spotted in Paris and New York in her satin pair, the street style photos went viral, and the shoes themselves sold out within a week of their February debut, only to be restocked again and again.

  • Ultra affordable: Under $130—making them accessible to a wide fashion audience.
  • Material: Satin upper for a delicate finish, daintier than bulkier rivals.
  • Design details: Double lace-up feature and a bendy construction set them apart.
  • Also available in: A sportier, eco-conscious Re-Nylon version (the Yancy style), expanding the lineup for varied tastes.

Why Everyone Wants Them: Fit, Feel, and Function

Curiosity led not just trendsetters, but also editors and everyday buyers to try out the Sneakerinas. The verdict:

  • First impressions: Like walking on plush slippers—luxurious yet practical.
  • Comfort: Cushioned sole, no blisters, and no painful break-in period.
  • Lightweight build: Seriously bendable and packable, ideal as a backup shoe for busy days.
  • Machine-washable: Satin holds up in a wash, a blessing for city dwellers wary of street grime.
  • Breathability: No more sweaty feet after hours of wear (a frequent complaint with flats and sneakers alike).

One recurring critique: The delicate satin ribbon laces, while chic, have a tendency to come untied—but this fix is quick and minor compared to the overall comfort and appeal.

The Appeal of Celebrity Style and Accessibility

Part of the Vivaia Sneakerina’s magic is that it isn’t just an “influencer shoe.” While high-end versions exist, Bella Hadid’s accessibility-first approach democratized the look:

  • Budget-friendly: Under $130, versus designer ballet sneakers at several times the price.
  • Repeated restocks: Each celebrity sighting triggers renewed sell-outs.
  • Celebrity styling: Hadid styled hers with everything from low-rise jeans and cropped tanks to full denim looks, offering endless inspiration for regular wear.

How to Wear Ballet Sneakers: Styling Tips

The beauty of the ballet sneaker is found in its wardrobe versatility. Incorporate them into looks ranging from casual to polished:

  • Classic jeans and cardigan: Echoes Hadid’s everyday approach and is suitable for office or errands.
  • With dresses and tights: Channel a “downtown ballerina” edge for dinner or event nights.
  • Sneaker-meets-street: Try pairing with loose-fit trousers or tailored shorts for a sleek, sport-inspired silhouette.
  • Office casual: Opt for neutral colors with business separates to keep things both professional and modern.
  • Throw in your bag: Their packable construction makes them perfect as a stylish backup or emergency “commute shoe.”

Styling Do’s and Don’ts

  • Do let the shoes shine as a statement piece by keeping the rest of the look streamlined.
  • Do mix textures and layers, especially with transitional weather.
  • Don’t pair with ultra-chunky oversized soles—reserve the ballet sneaker for cleaner lines.
  • Don’t be afraid of color: pastel pinks, silvers, and classic black all work beautifully.

The Staying Power of the Ballet Sneaker

Ballet-meets-sneaker isn’t a passing fad, thanks to a few key factors:

  • Practicality: Lightweight, packable, and easy to maintain, they fit the needs of city dwellers and commuters.
  • Stylistic choice: Blends the current balletcore movement with sports-luxe sensibility.
  • Seasonless: The look works year-round—pair with socks for fall, barefoot in summer.
  • Cultural momentum: With celebrities from Bella Hadid to Lola Tung stepping out in new colors each month, the craze isn’t slowing.

Trend Comparison: Ballet Sneakers vs. Other Popular Styles

FeatureBallet Sneaker (Vivaia Sneakerina)Classic Ballet FlatChunky Sneaker
ComfortExcellent – Cushioned, breathableHit-or-miss, often thin solesSupportive but heavy
Style VersatilityWorks with most outfitsBest with formal/casualBest with sporty looks
AccessibilityUnder $130, wide availabilityWide, many price rangesOften pricier
Trend CycleOn the rise – viralClassic – always in styleSustained but variable
MaintenanceMachine-washableUsually spot-clean onlyDurable, harder to clean

FAQs About Vivaia’s Ballet Sneakers

Q: What makes the Vivaia Sneakerina different from traditional ballet flats?

A: The Sneakerina combines the delicate look of ballet flats with the supportive, cushioned sole of sneakers. While ballet flats often have thin insoles and less structure, the Sneakerina prioritizes comfort for all-day wear.

Q: Are the Sneakerinas suitable for long walks or commuting?

A: They are not positioned as performance athletic shoes, but their cushioned sole and lightweight build make them excellent for city walking and daily wear. Many urban dwellers use them as a reliable commuting shoe.

Q: How do I clean Vivaia Sneakerinas?

A: They are machine-washable, a unique advantage for satin shoes. Simply remove the laces and follow care instructions for gentle cleaning.

Q: Do they work for wide feet?

A: Reviewers note the flexible construction and secure fit. However, those with particularly wide feet might prefer to size up or look for the Re-Nylon versions, which offer more stretch.

Q: Are they available outside the U.S.?

A: Vivaia ships internationally. The styles favored by Bella Hadid can be found both on their official website and larger marketplaces, though the most popular colors often sell out quickly.

Where to Buy and What to Know Before They’re Gone

The unprecedented demand for Sneakerinas following high-profile sightings means they rarely stay in stock for long. Here’s what you should keep in mind if you’re planning to grab a pair:

  • Most popular styles: The Satin Cristina and the Re-Nylon Yancy are both in high demand.
  • Pricing: Both iterations usually retail around $119–$160, undercutting designer competitors.
  • Restock alerts: Sign up for notifications from the Vivaia website or affiliated retailers to know when your preferred style returns.
  • Authenticity: With the trend so hot, make sure to purchase from authorized sellers to avoid knockoffs.
  • Colorways: New launches appear regularly, following the latest fashion trends and celebrity picks.

Final Thoughts: Why the Ballet Sneaker Trend Is Here to Stay

This isn’t just a celebrity moment; the ballet sneaker is redefining everyday style. Comfort, affordability, and a fashion-forward edge converge in the Vivaia Sneakerina—proving that sometimes, the most exciting trends are also the most wearable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What other celebrities are wearing ballet sneakers?

A: In addition to Bella Hadid, Charli XCX, Amelia Gray, and Lola Tung have all been spotted in various iterations of the ballet sneaker, further fueling demand and trend momentum.

Q: What are some other brands doing ballet-sneaker hybrids?

A: Similar styles have appeared in collections from Simone Rocha, Puma, Adidas (Taekwondo Mei), and Miu Miu, but the Vivaia sneakerina remains the most accessible and trend-driven option for 2025.

Q: Will ballet sneakers go out of style?

A: While all trends evolve, the ongoing demand, celebrity endorsements, and designer investment in the silhouette point toward lasting popularity—especially as wardrobes prioritize comfort as much as style.

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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