The fashionable influence of ballet flats on an ensemble is undeniable. More often than not, they serve as the perfect final touch to an aspirational French-girl outfit. However, a new style in footwear is gaining popularity among women in Europe and America. (Think Kaia Gerber, Jennifer Lawrence, and Jameela Jamil.) Meet ballet pumps, a sophisticated and elegant alternative to the aforementioned flats we’ve all come to know and love.
For quite some time, ballet flats have been a dominant force in street fashion. Nevertheless, fashion enthusiasts have started to explore more refined and elevated options as understated luxury and opulent aesthetics become more popular, leading to the surge of ballet pumps.
Ballet pumps, also known as block-heel pumps, combine the graceful shape of classic ballet flats with the addition of a 1.5-inch heel or higher. Despite the heel, these shoes maintain comfort and versatility. They serve as an excellent choice for transitioning between seasons and effortlessly enhance a wide range of outfits, from relaxed pants and trench coats to A-line dresses and cozy cardigans. One popular styling choice that’s catching on is the preppy-athletic look, which involves pairing ballet pumps with a polo shirt, a skirt, and ribbed socks or a tailored blazer with a midi pencil skirt and metal-frame eyewear.
While some brands have offered ballet pumps for seasons, others have perfected their styles more recently. From Steve Madden’s cult-favorite Cherish heels to Prada’s cutout design that was seen on the runway and Jeffrey Campbell’s modern buckle iteration, ballet pumps have become a staple footwear style among our favorite retailers.
They’re ideal for the summer-to-fall transition, so read on to discover our edit of the best ballet pumps to shop now.
Shop our favorite ballet pumps:
Jeffrey Campbell
Trustee Pumps
These look so expensive. The toe shape is classic and elegant, and the rounded heel adds a touch of extravagance.
Steve Madden
Cherish Red Patent Slip-On Heels
A bunch of Who What Wear editors own these, which says a lot. The hardest part is choosing between cherry red, black, ivory, and silver.
Repetto
Camille Ballerinas
Repetto’s ballet pumps have taken TikTok by storm—over three million users have created videos about them. Grab a pair to see what all the hype is about.
This budget-friendly option provides the perfect look without emptying your wallet. It has all the ideal design elements, featuring a subtle square toe, a small block heel, and a tied bow.
These would work with everything from tailored pants to a maxi skirt.
This pair exudes modern style with its mesh design and rounded toe.
Your friends will say you look *so rich* when you wear these.
Jeffrey Campbell
Dancerie Cap Toe Pumps
The beige-and-black color-blocking is giving Chanel vibes without the Chanel price tag.
Vagabond Shoemakers
Debbi Pumps
I got these last month, and yep, they look just as expensive IRL as they do online.
Time and Tru
Ballet Block Heel Pumps
Run, don’t walk, because these are $20. Yes, you read that right.
Prada
Patent Saffiano Leather Pumps
I have an unhealthy fascination with these. The sleek toe and puffy triangle logo are pure perfection.
Everlane shoppers love these comfortable heels, which is why they keep selling out. Snag them while they’re still in stock.
Maeve
Heeled Ballet Pumps
This pair is perfect due to the white-and-black color-blocking, a fashion trend that gains popularity every fall.
This style is so simple yet so elevated. Take this pair to work, events, and everything in between.
Franco Sarto
Natalia Block Heel Pumps
Shoppers absolutely adore these shoes because of the on-trend square toe and beautiful bow detail, which pays homage to classic ballet flats.
COACH
Ava Signature Jacquard Pump
I’m not normally one for a logo on my shoes, but something about this designer pair feels tasteful.
Veronica Beard
Cecile Square Toe Pumps
It doesn’t get more fall coded than a pair of crocodile-print ballet pumps.
Ayede
Off-White Delia Ballerina Flats
I’m in my elegant era, and Ayede’s luxurious footwear fits the bill.
Prada
Modellerie Mary Jane Pumps
These Mary Jane ballet pumps are absolutely delightful. They feature a charming gold Prada logo on the toe and a luxurious gold buckle across the top of the foot, adding a touch of elegance to the classic design.
Calvin Klein
Lenott Pointed Toe Pumps
Calvin Klein’s iteration is a timeless choice. It’s replete with clean, minimalistic details, like the soft suede composition and low block heel.
MAISON MARGIELA
Tabi Split-Toe Leather Ballet Flats
The Maison Margiela Tabi style has captivated the fashion world, and its unique silhouette attracts fashion enthusiasts in droves. Whether it’s the iconic Tabi boots, elegant ballet flats, or stylish ballet pumps, this distinctive design has the power to instantly elevate anyone’s look to high-fashion status.
Kate Spade
Bowdie Leather Pumps
This preppy style would look so cute paired with a polo shirt, a pleated skirt, and socks.
I’ve had my eye on this pair for a while because of the soft suede composition and sleek V-cup vamp.
Jimmy Choo
Elme Square Toe Ballet Pumps
This style stands out from the rest because of its eye-catching pearl and crystal embellishments.
Gianvito Rossi
Piper Pumps
Gianvito Rossi is celebrated for its elegant, refined, and enduring creations, exemplified by this particular pair. In addition to being a favorite of Kate Middleton, the brand boasts a following among notable celebrities such as Dua Lipa, Chrissy Teigen, and Daisy Edgar-Jones.