Ballet pumps are the must-have shoe for Spring – these are my favourite pairs
BALLET pumps were huge in the noughties, but now they're back and back in a big way.
Ballet pumps are, quite simply, flat shoes that typically have a round toe, though some come square, and we're loving these too.
Over Fashion Week many were styling ballet pumps with jeans, as well as trousers, skirts and dresses, and now the versatile staple is creeping into our wardrobes.
While some ballet pumps may be an easy slip-on design, others have an elasticated strap across the bridge of the foot, or around the ankle to make for a secure fit.
Then of course comes the variety of fabrics, from mesh to leather designs, even embellished creations like those from Mango we adore.
Ballet pumps are not only comfortable (another reason we love them) but they can jazz up the simplest of outfits, whether you opt for a vibrant red hue to inject some colour into your closet, a leopard print for a playful aesthetic, or a beaded design for a more elevated look.
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Not sure which pair is right for you? These are our favourite ballet pumps on the high street.
Boden
Boden has titled its ballet pumps Mary Jane Flats, and we can only assume the reference to the sixties footwear design is because of the cross ankle strap and buckle fastening.
Boden's ballet pumps have a slight heel to protect our soles from slamming on the pavement.
Not only does this feature protect our feet from being flat to the ground, but it also adds extra height, which makes them ideal when paired with wide-length jeans, maxi skirts and dresses.
The toe is a hybrid between square and oval shape, which has interested us as they are a modern twist on the staple.
These Boden pumps are created using responsibly sourced leather for a soft body cushioning your skin, which is ideal for those with sensitive feet and susceptible to blisters, while the outer is made from animal print hide or a contrast between suede and leather - depending on the design you select.
I love the leopard print design as it makes an outfit more interesting and playful, plus it coordinates with any colour.
- Mary Jane Flats, £110 from Boden - buy here
Dear Frances
Dear Frances is an Italian sustainable brand that has been on our radar for quite some time, not least because it's a label popular with Kaia Gerber and Gigi Hadid.
There are many designs we love at Dear Frances, especially the Balla Mesh, which is on our radar because they are minimalist but super luxe looking - and unique from other designs thanks to the transparent mesh outer fabric.
The Balla Mesh has a higher price point, and while that is a huge factor to consider, we consider these shoes a timeless style to wear with any outfit all spring and summer long, so we think it's a worthy investment.
These pumps come in seven colours and prints, some of which are embellished, and could even make for the perfect footwear for your wedding reception, or a more elaborate affair, while the block colours can be paired with jeans or summer dresses.
- Balla Mesh, £350 from Dear Frances - buy here
New Look
New Look is one of the high streets' most popular shopping destinations and is perfect for shopping specific trends on a budget - proving you don't have to spend a fortune to look stylish.
Not only is New Look a more affordable shopping destination, but it is a trusted brand I go to for comfortable footwear I know I can wear all day long.
From the soft almond-shaped toe to the gentle leather fabric, padded back and lining for extra comfort, combined with the strap fastening, make this a failsafe pump to complete any look.
- Off White Leather-Look Strappy Ballerina Pumps, £25.99 from New Look - buy here
Mango
Looking for ballet pumps away from the classic black? Don't miss Mango's rhinestone-encrusted pumps.
If you are heading out for a special occasion, such as a wedding (whether it is your own or you are a wedding guest), for date night or a girl's brunch, these dazzling slippers are a sleek way to elevate the simplest look.
Why we love the Rhinestone ballerinas from Mango because the gems are not packed side by side, so it is more of a subtle glistening, which, embedded on top of a neutral mesh upper fabric stands out without being too OTT.
We would wear them with wide-leg jeans and a satin shirt for a cute date night, or with a smart co-ord.
- Rhinestone ballerinas, £49.99 from Mango - buy here
M&S
M&S is another firm favourite and their Spring trends are giving designer vibes but with more affordable price tags.
The Leather Square Toe Ballet Pumps are more sturdy than the former ballet pumps that would fold and fit in our bags many moons ago.
The sole is slightly elevated, the inner sole is made using Insolia Flex technology for an even more comfortable fit, while the upper is made from super soft responsibly sourced leather that is soft on your foot.
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When it comes to ballet pumps we instantly have visions of wet feet and a bit of a stink that comes with them after hours of wear when we were at school, but M&S has included an antibacterial finish to keep your feet fresh and clean.
- Leather Square Toe Ballet Pumps, £35 from M&S - buy here
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