We perhaps owe the entrance of ballet pumps into mainstream fashion to the legendary Rose Repetto. In 1956, she designed a pair for French bombshell Brigitte Bardot and the film, And God Created Woman. A year later, Audrey Hepburn strutted down the steps of the Louvre in Funny Face with a sultry red pair of Repettos completing her monochromatic look. The style enjoyed a resurgence in the 2000s, which are, decidedly, back. Ever since balletcore took off in 2023, I’ve been wondering how long the aesthetic would last this go-round. Happily for this ballet flat- and ballet pumps- addict, I don’t think they’re going anywhere anytime soon. Here’s everything you need to know about the ballet pump, plus 15 pairs you’re going to want to add to cart.
15 Pairs of Ballet Pumps That Channel Balletcore & Add Some Height
from tabis to doc martens
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Meet the Expert
Katie Schuppler is a Chicago-based fashion stylist specializing in closet cleanouts, personal shopping, lookbooks, e-styling and speaking engagements. She is a stylist for The Whitney Reynolds Show, based in the Windy City. Schuppler currently serves as the fashion director for Felix Magazine.
What Are Ballet Pumps?
The ballet pump has a heel—typically under three inches—but is otherwise indistinguishable from the ballet flats we all know and love. That means grosgrain trims, satin finishes, bows on the toes and, in some cases, straps. (Note that if they have a buckle, that puts them firmly in Mary Janes camp.)
How to Wear Ballet Pumps
Schuppler recommends styling the ballet pump similar to the way you would wear ballet flats. “We are seeing a lot of trendy celebs wearing them with ankle socks and straight-leg jeans,” she notes. “A more traditional and still on-trend way to wear them would be with a pencil skirt and blouse or with a pair of straight-leg jeans and your favorite T-shirt half tucked in. Throw on a long cardigan over that and a crossbody bag for a great ‘running errands’ look!”
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The Best Ballet Pumps at a Glance
The Mary Jane Ballet Pump
What I Like
- demure buckle
- versatile and walkable
What I Don't Like
- only one colorway
- may need breaking in
Margaux
Mary Janes are EVERYWHERE, with everyone from Taylor Swift to PureWow’s own fashion editor donning a pair. I love The Jane Heel by Margaux—namely for the ultra-comfy footbed (great for wide feet, flat feet and all feet in between) and 2.5-inch block heel. For me, block heels always reign supreme when it comes to comfort, and I have a different pair of 2.5-inch Margaux that I love, so I can attest to the actual walkability. The Jane comes in black patent leather that’ll mold to your foot with wear.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: US 3.5 to 14
- Colors: 1
- Materials: patent leather
- Heel Height: 2.5 inches
Best Classic Ballet Pump
What I Like
- adjustable sacchetto construction
- leather will stretch over time
- cute 1-inch block heel
What I Don't Like
- may run small
Margaux
Margaux’s The Ada just entered my closet and I can’t get enough. For starters, the leather is so soft—the brand says it will stretch over time. Second, I love the 1-inch heel, which feels like the definition of versatility and comfort with a dash of sophistication. The square toe also feels polished and tapered without squishing your toes into a V shape. One thing I did notice after weeks of wearing them is that they seem to run small. Though the leather should stretch, I found that the tightness stemmed from the non-stretchy grosgrain trim. I’d advise sizing up and/or speaking with a fit specialist to make sure you grab the right size.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: US 3 to 14
- Colors: 5
- Materials: leather
- Heel Height: 1 inch
Most Comfortable Ballet Pumps
What I Like
- expanded toe box
- anatomical arch support
- inset block heel
What I Don't Like
- runs small
Sarah Flint
Sarah Flint pumps have graced the feet of many a celebrity (Lady Gaga, Megan Markle and Amal Clooney, to name a few)—and for good reason. Lauded for marrying comfort and design, these Italian-made shoes are engineered for all-day wear. From the inset heel that helps with weight distribution to the anatomical arch support and expanded toe box, it’s no wonder they’re a hit. This pump comes in four fun (but neutral!) colors—you might need one of each.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: US 4 to 13
- Colors: 4
- Materials: Italian suede, leather
- Heel Height: 2.75 inches
The Fashion-Forward Ballet Pumps
4. Everlane The Ballet Slingback Heel
What I Like
- updated take on a traditional shoe
- low heel
- bow detail
What I Don't Like
- runs large
Everlane
If Taylor Swift’s shoe choices tell me anything, it’s that the slingback can always be applied to another style. Prime example: this little number by Everlane. “I like the idea of combining ballet pumps with another trend for this season like these slingbacks,” says PureWow Assistant Commerce Editor Natalie Labarera. She calls out the rich, on-trend chocolate shade and unconventional design as a perfect way to shake up a rather traditional silhouette.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: US 5 to 11
- Colors: 4
- Materials: leather, recycled polyester satin
- Heel Height: 1 inch
Repetto Ballet Pumps Lookalike
5. Steve Madden Red Patent Pumps
What I Like
- affordable
- cute bow detail
- low heel
What I Don't Like
- some say the footbed is hard
Steve Madden
If you have your eyes on a shiny pair of Repettos but don’t want to cough up $400, these Steve Madden pumps will do the trick. The similar design also has a grosgrain trim and dainty bow sitting atop the toe. Though the heel is a smidge higher, it’s hardly noticeable. Plus, these also come in fun colors like fuchsia, silver and beige.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: US 6 to 11
- Colors: 4
- Materials: synthetic upper
- Heel Height: 1.25 inches
Fashion Influencer-Approved Ballet Pumps
What I Like
- walkable block heel
- square toe
- foam insole
What I Don't Like
- sizing can be inconsistent
Franco Sarto
I feel like every friend I know who’s in the fashion space has taken Franco Sarto shoes out for a spin and had good things to say about them. At one point, I also had a pair and can attest that the footbed is definitely cushy. Not only are the shoes stylish (Natalia ballet pumps a prime example), but the prices are also extremely approachable, with many options under $200. The only thing to take note of is that the sizing can be inconsistent. Some reviewers report that the shoes run large; in my experience with the brand, I thought they ran small.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 12
- Colors: 2
- Materials: faux leather
- Heel Height: 1.75 inches
Eco-Friendly Ballet Pumps
What I Like
- upgraded footbed
- fun colors
- block heel
What I Don't Like
- runs small in width
Rothy's
When PureWow editors reviewed Rothy’s heels, we were blown away. From a sustainability standpoint, Rothy’s factory has an amazing zero-waste program at its factory, where it works to divert waste from the landfill, incinerator and environment. From a fashion and comfort standpoint, the Mary Jane Heel is a real stunner. First, it comes with Rothy’s updated footbed, dubbed the In Love Insole. It’s definitely a step up from previous footbed iterations, which I’ve found thin. These are sturdy and comfortable. Second, the 2-inch block heel is the maximum height for all-day wear and style. Third, the stretchy strap keeps the shoe on your feet. (This style in particular runs true-to-size, but as a wide-footed person ordering the size up alleviates the width problem, but makes the shoes a bit loose.) There are five fun colors, including cream cap-toes that evoke a certain iconic French fashion house.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: US 5 to 13
- Colors: 5
- Materials: recycled plastic bottles
- Heel Height: 2 inches
Grunge Ballet Pumps
8. Dr. Martens Elphie Virginia Mary Janes
What I Like
- grunge twist on the ballet style
- signature stitching
- platform sole
What I Don't Like
- may need to be broken in
Dr. Martens
For those of you who identify more as a Wednesday than a Brigitte Bardot, Dr. Martens serves up some platform Mary Janes that allow you to partake in the ballet pumps trend while still keeping your (dangerous) edge. There are four available colors: black (duh), baby pink, deep cherry red and leopard. With the brand’s signature grooving pattern, welt stitching and a buckle that’s dainty but not too dainty, these shoes are ready for a not-so-delicate romp.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: US 5 to 11
- Colors: 4
- Materials: leather
- Heel Height: 1-inch platform
Shock-Absorbing Ballet Pumps
What I Like
- quiet heel
- grippy, rubber sole
- plush insole
What I Don't Like
- rubber doesn’t look as chic
Clarks
These Clarks Neiley pumps have a walkable 2.25-inch heel and rubber sole that offers traction on slippery floors. Reviewers appreciate that the heel is quiet when walking and note that they are incredibly comfy. “These are the shoes you can wear all day and forget that you are wearing heels,” writes one Clarks reviewer. “The shock absorption is phenomenal, and you don’t have to worry about damaging the heels when walking outside because they have rubber soles and heels.” I had a pair of Clarks that I wore to the death and concur: the footbed is like no other.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: US 5 to 11
- Colors: 6
- Materials: leather
- Heel Height: 2.25 inches
No-Frills Ballet Pumps
What I Like
- low heel
- square toe
- simple, versatile construction
What I Don't Like
- few colorways
Everlane
Looking for a day-to-day ballet pump? You’ve found it. Everlane’s The Ballet Pump is an easy slip-on, perfect for pairing with your favorite jeans and a half-tucked blouse for a day of errands. The shoes are ethically produced using leather certified by the The Leather Working Group, which audits the supply chain to ensure best safety and manufacturing processes. The shoes are available in black, blush tan and classic red suede—true wardrobe staple right here.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: US 5 to 11
- Colors: 3
- Materials: leather
- Heel Height: 1 inch
The Platform Ballet Pump
11. Larroudé x Libertine Olivia Pump
What I Like
- beautiful quality and construction
- block heel for stability
What I Don't Like
- difficult to break in
Larroudé
Larroudé seems to be loved by everyone, from Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez to Katie Holmes. For the lovers of platform shoes, the brand might just make the ultimate ballet pump. Four towering inches, a 2-inch platform and sturdy rubber sole make these a cross between the coquette and hipster. As someone who owned a pair of block-heeled Mary Jane pumps from Larroudé, I do think the quality of the shoes are top-notch. However, the patent leather can be quite stiff, so expect an extensive break-in period. If you have wide feet, you may also want to consider trying a half or full size up.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: US 5 to 11
- Colors: 3
- Materials: patent leather
- Heel Height: 4 inches
The High Fashion Ballet Pumps
12. Maison Margiela Tabi Ballet Pumps
What I Like
- distinctive style
- low heel
What I Don't Like
- toe partitions may not be suitable for every foot
Bloomingdale's
You’ve seen these all over the internet. You followed the Tabi thief saga on TikTok. And now, you’re influenced. You need some Tabi ballet pumps. Here they are. (Coupled with a slingback style, no less.) Made by Maison Margiela (the fashion house behind the iconic glass makeup look by Pat McGrath), the shoes feature the signature hoof-like split-toe cut. They come in black or silver gray with topstitching and a barely-there knot that is, I guess, the high-fashion stand-in for a typical bow. Tabis don’t come cheap, but they are a piece of the fashion zeitgeist…if you dare.
Fast Facts
- Size Range:
- Colors: 2
- Materials:
- Heel Height: 1.25 inches
Stiletto Ballet Pumps
13. Sophia Webster Pirouette Pumps
What I Like
- almond toe
- bow detail
- satin finish
What I Don't Like
- limited colors
Sophia Webster
Personally, I don’t typically opt for stilettos, but there needs to be at least one option for the daring among us. Sophia Webster’s Pirouette Pumps offer a towering, skinny 4-inch heel. The satin upper lends the shoes an elegant finish, topped (literally) with a crystal-embellished bow on the almond toe—which should give your toes some wiggle room.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: US 6.5 to 10
- Colors: 1
- Materials: stain, leather
- Heel Height: 4 inches
Quintessential Ballet Pumps
14. Repetto Camille Ballerinas
What I Like
- iconic French style
- dainty bow detail
- the original ballet flat
What I Don't Like
- footbed is a bit hard
Repetto
Where else to buy a ballet pump than from Repetto? I’d be completely remiss to skip over the brand that made this style an icon. Approved by the likes of Brigitte Bardot and Audrey Hepburn, Repetto is credited with bringing the ballet shoe into the fashion realm. The patent-leather Camille ballet pump comes in a smattering of colors and looks just like a dainty ballet shoe. The very manageable heel gives you just enough lift with a nod to the brand’s well-loved Cendrillon flat.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: US 3.5 to 11
- Colors: 4
- Materials: patent leather
- Heel Height: 1.2 inches
Chanel Lookalike
What I Like
- Chanel-inspired
- grosgrain trim
- dual tone
What I Don't Like
- no free shipping/returns
Ballerette
This Roman brand has been all over my social media feed, and I’m definitely smitten. As the name suggests, Ballerette specializes in ballet-inspired shoes. And for the Chanel fanatics who are looking to not pay $800 for a pair of flats, the lucky day has arrived. Ballerette’s two-tone ballet pumps are a nod to Coco’s well-loved design, complete with a bow. A white/black and all black variation are available, too.
Fast Facts
- Size Range:
- Colors:
- Materials:
- Heel Height: 1.5 inches
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Ballet Pumps Called?
Ballet pumps are simply a cross between the ballet flat and heel. Heel heights can range anywhere from 1 inch to over 4 inches. There are traditional silhouettes and fun iterations like the Mary Jane and the slingback.
Are Ballet Pumps Back in Fashion for 2025?
Ballet pumps—and ballet flats in general—have been “back” in fashion since at least 2021 with the reemergence of balletcore. Their popularity has continued to rise, thanks to trends like the “ballet body” following the rise of Ozempic, quiet luxury and pop stars like Sabrina Carpenter who have re-popularized the coquette look.
How Much Do Ballet Flats Cost?
There’s no average price for ballet flats, and the cost will be determined by the brand (especially if you’re paying for a logo), materials and craftsmanship. On this list, I’ve rounded up options as low as $16 and as much as $1,120.
Are Ballet Flats Good for Your Feet?
Out of all possible shoe options, ballet flats are not the best for your feet. “The inherent lack of support in ballet flats can lead to undue strain on the arch of the foot, leg muscles and even lower back, potentially causing conditions like arch pain, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis and back pain,” Dr. Najwa Javed previously told PureWow. However, for those who cannot wear heels, ballet flats are a better option when it comes to formal wear.
