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.
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!
