Meghan Markle has proved that ballet shoes can be just as classy as heels

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were all smiles as they were spotted leaving a date night at a Michelin-star sushi restaurant in Montecito last month. 

Dressed in her classic Californian style, Meghan, 41, wore a brown long-sleeved dress, with matching open-toed sandals and a slicked-back low ponytail – as well as a white bucket bag and gold earrings.

While her ensemble was chic from head to toe, it was her classic pair of ‘Oran’ sandals by Hermes that truly stood out. 

The timeless £570 sandals which have been around since 1997 offered a simple yet effective design for the Duchess who typically favours minimalist pieces.

Featuring a simple design with one strap over the toes showcasing the Hermès ‘H’, the slip-ons made from tan leather and have white stitch detailing are so versatile and we can see why Meghan opted for them.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle (centre) seen leaving Sushi Bar Montecito in California last Friday with Cameron Diaz and Benji Madden (right) and bodyguard Dave Langdown (left)

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex smiling as they walked out of Sushi Bar Montecito

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex smiling as they walked out of Sushi Bar Montecito

The timeless Hermes Oran sandals which have been around since 1997 offer a simple design

The timeless Hermes Oran sandals which have been around since 1997 offer a simple design

Here The Mail’s new Royals section shows how Meghan flats have hit the heights:

Chanel Ballerina Flats 

Meghan first wore her beige and black Chanel Ballerina flats back in 2020 while out in Beverly Hills with her husband Prince Harry, and she has loved them ever since.

While on the higher end of her collection, the beautiful smooth beige lambskin leather with contrasting black leather cap toes are to die for. 

They are the perfect wardrobe essential for someone like Meghan, who will pair the shoes with a more casual ensemble and use them to tie together an overall sophisticated look.

While Meghan’s pair are no longer available to buy, Chanel is currently listing a similar pair for £910.

They are the perfect wardrobe essential for someone like Meghan, who will pair the shoes with a more casual ensemble

The beautiful smooth beige lambskin leather and contrasting black leather make the perfect pairing

Meghan wearing her Chanel Ballerina flats at the Invictus Games in Zuiderpark, The Netherlands in April 2022

Chanel CC Cap-toe Flats

Another favourite of the 41-year-old is her pair of black $345 Chanel Cap-Toe CC Ballet Flats.

These are perfect for any occasion – their patent leather cap toes and small embroidered CC logo set them aside from your everyday pair of flats. 

Meghan has been seen wearing these fashionable ballet shoes since back in 2014 and has loved them ever since. 

Meghan Markle looking effortlessly stylish dressed in her Chanel Cap-Toe CC Ballet Flats

Meghan Markle looking effortlessly stylish dressed in her Chanel Cap-Toe CC Ballet Flats

Their patent leather cap toes and small embroidered CC logo set them aside from your everyday pair of flats

Their patent leather cap toes and small embroidered CC logo set them aside from your everyday pair of flats

Rothy’s Black Solid Flats

Priced at £110 ($125) , Meghan’s Black Solid Flats are from Rothy’s, an environmentally-conscious company based in San Francisco whose products are made from recycled water bottles destined for landfill.

They have been dubbed by fashion bible Vogue as ‘among the most politically correct shoes on our beleaguered planet’.

The brand is a perfect fit for the mother-of-two, who has long championed environmentally-conscious labels like Stella McCartney, Theory and Hiut Denim.

The shoes come in a vast array of vibrant patterns and colours, but Meghan opted for classic black with a subtle blue lining as she and Harry made their way from Taronga Zoo to the Sydney Opera House during their 2018 Australian tour.

Harry and Meghan on South Melbourne beach in October, 2018

They have been dubbed by fashion bible Vogue as 'among the most politically correct shoes on our beleaguered planet'

The shoes come in a vast array colours, but Meghan opted for classic black with a subtle blue lining as she and Harry made their way from Taronga Zoo to the Sydney Opera House

Rothy’s Merino Shadow Flats

While Rothy’s are known for their sustainable approach to footwear fashion, they are also designed to be some of the comfiest shoes in your wardrobe due to their knit-to-shape technology and zero seams.

Retailing between £118 to £147, these Merino Shadow Flats are the perfect choice for someone like Meghan who is constantly on the go yet wants to have an eco-conscious outlook on their wardrobe.

The pointed-toe shoes give off a polished and modern look, made from a blend of premium merino wool and signature thread spun from repurposed plastic water bottles. The outsoles are also made from vegan leather

By opting for a darker shade, the classic flats complement any outfit and feature Rothy’s signature blue halo.

Meghan wore the shoes when she and Harry visited children at the Assistance League of Los Angeles Preschool Learning Center in 2020

Meghan wore the shoes when she and Harry visited children at the Assistance League of Los Angeles Preschool Learning Center in 2020

The pointed-toe shoes give off a polished and modern look

Merino Shadow Flats are the perfect choice for someone like Meghan who is constantly on the go

Aquazzura Deneuve flats

While the brand is undeniably Meghan’s go-to for heels, having worn a pair on her wedding day, Meghan also loves Aquazzura’s flats, which retail for around £500.

The Italian point-toe silhouette Aquazzuara Deneuve flats are made from a rich black suede and feature teardrop-shaped cut-outs at the sides along with minimalist gold block heels.

The delicate bow perched at the back of the flats ties together their chic detailing, making them the perfect pair to elevate any outfit.  

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex on the field prior to the start of the first of a two-game series between the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox at London Stadium on June 29, 2019

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex on the field prior to the start of the first of a two-game series between the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox at London Stadium on June 29, 2019

The Italian point-toe silhouette Aquazzuara Deneuve flats are made from a rich black suede and feature teardrop-shaped cut-outs

The Italian point-toe silhouette Aquazzuara Deneuve flats are made from a rich black suede and feature teardrop-shaped cut-outs

Aquazzura DJ Mules

For Meghan and Harry’s first royal tour, she proved that alongside her more formal outfits, casual clothes can look just as chic with the right accessories.

Appearing at Hervey Bay Airport in Queensland, she dressed up the jeans and shirt combo with the most gorgeous pair of Aquazzura DJ Mules, which are adorned with some striking silver studs.

The 860 (GBP £468) mules featured Meghan’s signature a pointed-toe to tie together the sophisticated look, fit for royalty.

Appearing at Hervey Bay Airport in Queensland, the Duchess, pictured, opted for her tried-and tested favourite shoes

Appearing at Hervey Bay Airport in Queensland, the Duchess, pictured, opted for her tried-and tested favourite shoes

They're by one of her go-to shoe designers, Aquazzura, and we love the pretty silver stud embellishment and sharply pointed toe

They’re by one of her go-to shoe designers, Aquazzura, and we love the pretty silver stud embellishment and sharply pointed toe

Birdies Blackbird Slippers

When it comes to flats, Meghan’s slippers by Birdies are without a doubt one of her favourites, and who can blame her?

As proven by the Duchess of Sussex, they are a timeless addition to any wardrobe thanks to the vegan velvet finish and minimalist slipper design – and to top it all off they are just as comfortable as they are stylish. 

The female-founded, owned, and run company is dedicated to championing women, so it’s no wonder that the philanthropist is a fan.

Meghan has worn the American brand’s shoes numerous times over the years, dating as far back as 2016.

Meghan Markle leaving her home in Toronto, Canada

The Blackbird slippers by Birdies are a classic choice

As shown by the Duchess of Sussex, these are a useful addition to any wardrobe thanks to the vegan velvet finish and minimalist slipper design

Sarah Flint Lily Flats

Meghan stays true to her favourites, notably the Sarah Flint Lily Flats.

According to Sarah Flint, the $365 shoe styled with a suede pointed-toe cap has been spotted on Meghan multiple times since 2016.

The chic black lambskin flat features a cotton tie which crosses over Meghan’s foot all the way up to her ankle – giving them an edge over the traditional ballet shoe. 

Meghan Markle spotted heading to the Four Season Hotel to meet up with some friends in Toronto, Canada back in 2016

Meghan Markle spotted heading to the Four Season Hotel to meet up with some friends in Toronto, Canada back in 2016

When it comes to shoes, Meghan stays true to her favourites, notably the Sarah Flint Lily Flats

When it comes to shoes, Meghan stays true to her favourites, notably the Sarah Flint Lily Flats

Sarah Flint Grear Sandals

The Duchess of Sussex’s go-to sandal, the ‘Gear’ from Sarah Flint are chic strappy shoes which feature ankle ties and two leather straps.

The Grecian-inspired sandal looks perfect with just about any outfit, making them the essential dynamic wardrobe essential to suit both formal and casual events.

Meghan has been seen on numerous occasions wearing the sandals, teaming them with a gorgeous Reformation dress during a trip to Australia and with an off-the-shoulder mini dress on holiday with friends.

The shoe is stocked in a number of colours including the brown favoured by the Duchess and cost just under $400.

Meghan has been spotted on numerous occasions wearing the sandals, teaming them with a gorgeous Reformation dress during a trip to Australia

Meghan has been spotted on numerous occasions wearing the sandals, teaming them with a gorgeous Reformation dress during a trip to Australia

The Duchess of Sussex’s go-to sandal, the 'Gear' from Sarah Flint are chic strappy shoes which feature ankle ties and two leather straps

The Duchess of Sussex’s go-to sandal, the ‘Gear’ from Sarah Flint are chic strappy shoes which feature ankle ties and two leather straps

Sarah Flint Natalie Flats

For Meghan’s first official engagement with Prince Harry at the 2017 Invictus Games, she donned a pair of Sarah Flint Natalie Flats. 

The Natalie shoes are hand crafted of saddle calfskin leather and are styled with a pointed-toe, finished with a small bow on the toes. 

Meghan’s choice of flats looks both elegant and comfortable, the perfect shoe to wear with anything. 

According to the brand’s website, the camel-coloured, flat is still one of its best sellers and currently retails in a range of colours for $450.

Prince Harry  and Meghan Markle attending a Wheelchair Tennis match during the Invictus Games 2017

Prince Harry  and Meghan Markle attending a Wheelchair Tennis match during the Invictus Games 2017

The Natalie shoes are hand crafted of saddle calfskin leather and are styled with a pointed-toe, finished with a small bow on the toes

The Natalie shoes are hand crafted of saddle calfskin leather and are styled with a pointed-toe, finished with a small bow on the toes

Sarah Flint Lisa Flats

The shoe brand, which has boutiques in Dallas and Atlanta, has been a staple in Meghan’s wardrobe since the early days of her career on  the television show Suits. 

In 2015, Meghan donned a pair of classy Sarah Flint Lisa Flats as she posed for an Instagram photo captured by pal and designer Misha Nonoo.

The Lisa shoes featured a cobalt blue suede, a patent leather toe, and were topped off with a feminine ruffle embellishment at the vamp.

While these are sadly no longer available to buy from Sarah Flint, their prices ranged from $130 to around $295.

In 2015, Meghan donned a pair of classy Sarah Flint Lisa Flats as she posed for an Instagram photo captured by pal and designer Misha Nonoo

In 2015, Meghan donned a pair of classy Sarah Flint Lisa Flats as she posed for an Instagram photo captured by pal and designer Misha Nonoo

The Lisa shoes feature a cobalt blue suede, a patent leather toe, and are topped off with a feminine ruffle embellishment at the vamp.

The Lisa shoes feature a cobalt blue suede, a patent leather toe, and are topped off with a feminine ruffle embellishment at the vamp.

Everlane Editor Slingback

The Duchess of Sussex is a big supporter of conscious fashion, and Everlane’s use of ethical materials was likely key a selling point for her. 

She wore two shades of Everlane’s Editor Slingback, made from 100 per cent natural Italian suede, during her visit to South Africa in September 2019, swapping her high heels for practical flats.

As she arrived in Cape Town with Prince Harry and then a baby Archie, she looked effortlessly chic arriving at the airport in a light grey coat, white jeans and the nude Everlane pointed-toe flats.

Meghan then opted for the red version of the shoes with a blue dress from Aritzia’s in-house label Wilfred for a visit to an art studio.

Harry and Meghan  during a visit to Auwal Mosque, the oldest mosque in Cape Town, 2019

Harry and Meghan  during a visit to Auwal Mosque, the oldest mosque in Cape Town, 2019

The Duchess of Sussex is a big supporter of conscious fashion, and Everlane’s use of ethical materials was likely key a selling point for her

The Duchess of Sussex is a big supporter of conscious fashion, and Everlane’s use of ethical materials was likely key a selling point for her

Sam Edelman Sally Flats

The classic ballet flat will never go out of style, and Meghan’s Sam Edelman’s Sally flats are the perfect example of a timeless piece.

Meghan stepped out in the £80 nude suede flats on a 2019 tour to South Africa.

The slip-on flats with just a quarter inch heel were the perfect choice for her day-to-evening outings, looking polished yet practical for a lot of walking.

While Meghan favoured the dynamic oatmeal shade, the flats also come in an array of different colours and textures – from black leather to lilac suede.

While Meghan favoured the oatmeal shade, the flats also come in an array of different colours and textures

Harry and Meghan visiting the Bo Kaap area in Cape Town, on September 24, 2019

The classic ballet flat will never go out of style, and Meghan’s Sam Edelman’s Sally flats are the perfect example of a timeless piece. Pictured: Meghan wearing the shoes during a visit to Cape Town in 2019

Emme Parsons Laurie Sandals

Meghan was first spotted wearing her brown Emme Parsons ‘Laurie’ sandals for Prince Harry’s semi-final Polo match in June 2022.

The popular gold-stone sandals, which are almost always nearly sold out in every size, feature a toe ring and straps that can be worn at the back of the heel like a slingback or over the foot as a slide.

The £250 shoe is a comfortable summer shoe you can walk miles in while on holiday.

Meghan watching  Harry play a polo game at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club in 2022

Meghan watching  Harry play a polo game at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club in 2022

The popular gold-stone sandals, which are almost always nearly sold out in every size, feature a toe ring and brown straps

The popular gold-stone sandals, which are almost always nearly sold out in every size, feature a toe ring and brown straps

J.Crew Leather Lace-up Sandals

These Leather Lace-up Sandals from J.Crew are one of Meghan’s more affordable pairs for the price of £88. 

They are everything you would need from a sandal, from their gorgeous strappy look to the chic leather lining – they make the perfect summer footwear.

Meghan was first seen wearing the shoes when making her way through the airport in Austin, Texas, on June 10, 2017.

Meghan spotted catching a flight at the airport in Toronto, Canada, while wearing her sandals

Meghan spotted catching a flight at the airport in Toronto, Canada, while wearing her sandals

These Leather Lace-up Sandals from J.Crew are one of Meghan's more affordable pairs for the price of £88

These Leather Lace-up Sandals from J.Crew are one of Meghan’s more affordable pairs for the price of £88

Valentino Garavani Stud Mule

The Duchess of Sussex looked incredibly chic for a brunch date in LA in March this year in her $1,338 Valentino Garavani Stud Mules.

She wore an all-black outfit made up of a rib knit, button-trim skinny trousers and a cashmere Max Mara coat. But it was her accessories that really caught our attention.

Her Valentino Garavani white shoes are the perfect alternative to heels – just as sleek thanks to the pointed-toe and gold Rockstud detailing, but a whole lot more comfortable.

Meghan Markle smiles as she is photographed outside the restaurant in California in March

Meghan Markle smiles as she is photographed outside the restaurant in California in March

Her Valentino Garavani white shoes are the perfect alternative to heels

Her Valentino Garavani white shoes are the perfect alternative to heels

Brother Vellies Huarache Flats

Whilst we love the Duchess of Sussex dresses up to the nines in her beloved luxury labels, we equally are in awe when she cuts a casual figure.

She looked effortless from head-to-woven-toe, in a pair of skinny jeans, tucked in a white tee, straw hat and Brother Vellies Huarache Flats at a traditional 4th of July parade in Jackson Hole last year. 

She dusted these staples comprised of handwoven braided leather out of her 2019 wardrobe, dubbed ‘huaraches’ and crafted in Mexico.

The shoes are a casual slip-on flat and feature an enclosed toe along with a cleated rubber sole. 

She looked effortless from head-to-woven-toe, in a pair of skinny jeans, tucked in a white tee, straw hat and Brother Vellies Huarache Flats at a 4th of July parade in Jackson Hole last year

She looked effortless from head-to-woven-toe, in a pair of skinny jeans, tucked in a white tee, straw hat and Brother Vellies Huarache Flats at a 4th of July parade in Jackson Hole last year

She dusted these staples out of her 2019 wardrobe, dubbed 'huaraches' and crafted in Mexico

She dusted these staples out of her 2019 wardrobe, dubbed ‘huaraches’ and crafted in Mexico

Jimmy Choo ‘Attila’ Flats

Meghan has often been spotted wearing the stylish pair of Jimmy Choo ‘Attila’ Flats, from meeting fans at Pearson International Airport in Toronto to a Wes Gordon runway show during MADE Fashion Week in 2015.

The nude suede shoes provide the perfect addition to any neutral-coloured ensemble, and Meghan wears her signature pointed-toe accessory so well.

While the Duchess’ shoe is no longer available, Jimmy Choo still sells the style in a range of different colours.

Meghan was spotted wearing the stylish pair of Jimmy Choo ‘Attila’ Flats to a Wes Gordon runway show during MADE Fashion Week in 2015

Meghan was spotted wearing the stylish pair of Jimmy Choo ‘Attila’ Flats to a Wes Gordon runway show during MADE Fashion Week in 2015

The nude suede shoes provide the perfect addition to any neutral-coloured ensemble

The nude suede shoes provide the perfect addition to any neutral-coloured ensemble

Prada Brown Velvet Flats

When attending the Prada The Iconoclasts event at the Prada store in Soho in New York City, Meghan donned a fashionable pair of Prada shoes.   

The gorgeous pair are a brown suede colour and are trimmed with diamantes along the rim and on the strap. 

When attending the Prada The Iconoclasts event at the Prada store in Soho in New York City, Meghan donned a fashionable pair of Prada shoes

When attending the Prada The Iconoclasts event at the Prada store in Soho in New York City, Meghan donned a fashionable pair of Prada shoes

Nicholas Kirkwood + Erdem Croc Flats

Meghan stunned in a pair of Nicholas Kirkwood + Erdem Croc Flats while attending the Misha Nonoo fashion show in New York City back in 2015.

She dressed to impress in her embellished leather black croc embossed shoes as she paired them with a sleek black outfit.

Designed for Erdem’s Fall ’14 runway show, the £325 flats are spliced with clear PVC and embellished to mirror the bold feel of the collection. 

To top it off, they are finished with black glitter and midnight-blue crystals.

Meghan stunned in a pair of Nicholas Kirkwood + Erdem Croc Flats while attending the Misha Nonoo fashion show in New York City in 2015

Meghan stunned in a pair of Nicholas Kirkwood + Erdem Croc Flats while attending the Misha Nonoo fashion show in New York City in 2015

Designed for Erdem's Fall '14 runway show, the £325 flats are spliced with clear PVC

Designed for Erdem’s Fall ’14 runway show, the £325 flats are spliced with clear PVC

Tieks Matte Black Ballet Flats

Meghan’s Matte Black Tieks are described by the brand as the most versatile flats in the world. 

Having been made from the finest Italian leathers, they are designed to fold and fit anywhere for those on the go and are wearable all day, every day.

This little black shoe is effortlessly versatile, bringing style and comfort to any wardrobe.

As one of Meghan’s older pairs of shoes, she was seen wearing the ballet flats back in 2012 for the HBO Luxury Lounge event at the Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles.

As one of Meghan's older pairs of shoes, she was seen wearing the ballet flats back in 2012 for the HBO Luxury Lounge event at the Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles

As one of Meghan’s older pairs of shoes, she was seen wearing the ballet flats back in 2012 for the HBO Luxury Lounge event at the Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles

Meghan's Matte Black Tieks are described by the brand as the most versatile flats in the world

Meghan’s Matte Black Tieks are described by the brand as the most versatile flats in the world

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