Fashion

Ballet pumps are back, so here are 21 pairs that are approved by fashion editors

The shoe that the ‘it’ girls of Paris have worn since the dawn of time.

By Georgia Trodd and Alexandra Fullerton

28 March 2023

Ballet Pumps 21 Pairs Of Ballet Flats To Buy

Ballet pumps are a staple shoe style that never goes out of fashion, but this year has seen a resurgence of the classic flat - and we are here for it.

If you're a stan of the capsule wardrobe, it's likely you're aware of the elevation slipping into the classic footwear can bestow on any outfit. It's no coincidence that ballet flats are a favourite of style icons everywhere, including The Duchess of Sussex, who is a fan of Chanel’s iconic two-tone ballet flats. Gabrielle Chanel was an ardent ballet fan and advocated freedom and ease in women's dress, although it was Karl Lagerfeld who introduced the style that is now a signature of the maison.

So far, so chic. But how come ballet pumps are everywhere right now? The 2023 version of the iconic ballet flat stems from their appearance as a staple style at The Row - Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen's stealth chic label, famed for creating waitlist worthy footwear (find their ballet flats here.) And, as balletcore has pirouetted all over our feeds, we've noticed a whole array of sweet satin styles that wouldn't look out of place on a sprung floor dance studio... Miu Miu's pink satin flats with ribbons up the leg are a viral sell-out while their beautiful metallic gold version is 2023's take.

These Miu Miu ballet pumps are going viral, proving Balletcore is here to stay

And there are a few more affordable versions following their footsteps.

By Georgia Trodd

Image may contain: Clothing, Apparel, Footwear, Shoe, Human, Person, and Sock

How should I style ballet pumps?

Ballet flats are versatile, and that's key to their success. They suit any shape of jeans, from baggy jeans, skinny jeans, wide-leg or mom-style. They also suit any level of smartness, making a ball gown or fancy frock look casual and zhuzhing up your weekend basics.

If you want to echo Chanel's styling, look for quilted fabrics (New Look's version is a steal at just £17.99), contrast toes (like on ASOS's square toe offering) and an almond silhouette. For a more Miu Miu vibe, pale satin is a total mood. Mango's pink satin elasticated strap style is a clever high street find. To go full throttle on with the coquettish mood, Jimmy Choo's ballet flats have a pearl-encrusted strap too. Delightful!

Elsewhere, if you're after more even more footwear, we've got the best sandals for summer as well as kitten heels, mules, fashion trainers and comfortable wedding shoes to browse. Trust us, your feet will thank you for it.