Words by Nicola Campbell-Turnbull

Ballet pumps are back with a bang! From Audrey Hepburn elegance to noughties cool, here’s why these flats are your go-to for effortless between-season style—and our top picks, from high street to designer, for you to shop now.

My favourite flats are back and I am oh-so grateful. These pretty little shoes were, once upon a time, my footwear heroes. I pretty much had a pair for every day of the week. Statement leopard ones from French Sole, swishy satin ones from Pretty Ballerinas and classic black ones from M&S. Ballet pumps were the shoes that took me everywhere. Synonymous with timeless elegance and effortless style, now these chic flats are making a comeback in a big way. And, as we transition between seasons, ballet pumps are proving the perfect in-betweener shoes once again. They can help us all for navigate unpredictable weather, as well as seamlessly blend comfort with that coveted ‘off-duty’ aesthetic.

I fell in love with ballet pumps when I fell in love with Audrey Hepburn’s iconic on-screen grace in Roman Holiday. Then when Kate Moss adopted them as part of her laid-back cool look of the noughties I adopted them too. And I didn’t look back because ballet pumps tick all the boxes for style and practicality. Whether paired with tailored trousers, midi skirts, or barrel-legged jeans, they add a subtle polish that works for both casual and more dressed-up looks.

The ballet shoe revival brings modern updates, from square-toe designs to luxe finishes like satin and studded patent leather. So while the classic rounded silhouette remains our firm favourite, there’s now a ballet pump for every look you want to channel. Whether you’re aiming for Hepburn’s timeless femininity or Moss’s effortlessly edgy vibe, ballet pumps are the ultimate go-to transitional shoe. Step-point-curtsy and off-we-go.