Last year, ballet flats were declared officially back, and now its hard to imagine our wardrobes or our Instagram feeds without them.
Elegant and practical, versatile and comfortable - what's not to love? And with summer finally here, the transitional shoe has never been more in demand.
Like the resurgence of many other Y2K trends, ballet pumps instantly transport me back to my teenage years, but 20 years on they've had something of upgrade.
Of course, Chanel’s iconic two-tone pair has been around since the 1950s, but if you too still associate them with the unstylish era of wearing Juicy Couture tracksuits and a waist belt with literally everything, just take a look at Miu Miu’s super cute logo-jacquard strap ballet flats or the beautiful satin styles by The Row.
Most recently, mesh ballet flats and studded styles have dominated with the street style set. Seen on the likes of Alexa Chung and Jennifer Lawrence, I've since spotted lookalikes all over the high street, from Reformation to River Island.
Whether you're yet to rejoin team ballet flats, you want to add to your collection, or you're trying a pair for the first time (looking at you, Gen Z), I've found all of the chicest pairs to shop now.
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Celebrities and royals wearing ballet flats
From Aquazzura to Chanel and Everlane to Zara, Meghan Markle loves her ballet flats. She's been spotted in every style from two-tone with rounded toes to pointed slingbacks.
Alexa Chung demonstrates how to style ballet flats with a mini dress, looking so chic in her Miu Miu pumps and an oversized leather blazer.
Model Marlies Pia Pfeifhofer dresses down the same pair to perfection, wearing the Miu Miu ballet flats with white straight-leg jeans and a black tailored blazer.
How I chose the best ballet flats
- Style: There are so many different styles of ballet flats trending right now. From mesh to rhinestone-embellished and metallic silver to classic black, I've included them all in this edit.
- Price: Whether you're looking to spend less than £20 or upwards of £200, there's something to suit every budget.
- Brands: I've only included brands loved and trusted by the HELLO! shopping team. Many of these pairs also come with top reviews, and they're all fashion editor-approved.
& Other Stories Square-Toe Ballet Flats
Editor's note:
& Other Stories' very chic ballet pumps are modelled on classic Pointe shoe styles. Featuring a square toe, they're lined with soft nappa leather and secure with delicate Mary Jane straps.
Mango Metallic Mesh Shoes
Editor's note:
Mesh styles are super popular for summer and I love this Mango pair in silver. Since last year the high street brand has had one of the best collections of ballet flats, and you'll find every kind of shape, from ruched to ankle straps.
H&M Mary Jane Ballet Pumps
Editor's note:
At £18.99, H&M's suede style ballet flats look so much more expensive than their price tag. They have a classic Mary Jane design with square toes and a satin lining.
Everlane The Italian Leather Day Ballet Flat
Editor's note:
Meghan Markle-favourite Everlane does real Italian leather ballet flats in a whole range of shades. They come with a comfortable cushioned insole and an outsole made of low impact, recycled leather.
Reformation Bethany Ballet Flats
Editor's note:
From metallics to rhinestones, Reformation's Bethany ballet flats come in a variation to suit every style, and I'm obsessed with this white mesh pair for summer. They feature a rounded toe and buckled strap.
M&S Leather Square Toe Ballet Pumps
Editor's note:
Marks & Spencer's sleek leather ballet flats are so popular thanks to their stylish square toe and Insolia Flex technology, which ensures your feet are correctly placed for ultimate comfort. They're even available in half sizes so you can find the perfect fit.
New Look Leopard Print Ballet Pumps
Editor's note:
If you want to wear trending leopard print but keep it subtle, New Look's ballet flats will look amazing with everything from mini dresses to wide-leg trousers. They feature a flexible and comfy padded sole.
River Island Studded Mary Jane Ballet Pumps
Editor's note:
River Island's lookalikes for Alaia’s cult-favourite fishnet ballet flats come in black, white and beige, with the signature strap. The party-ready pair feature sparkling studs.
Stradivarius Studded Ballet Shoes
Editor's note:
These Stradivarius studded ballet flats come in a trending Mary Jane style with an adjustable strap. Reviews say they're super comfortable.
