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 (meaning, yes, ballet pumps—like balletcore in general—are very on-trend in 2023). 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
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Published Apr 19, 2023
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Meet the Expert
Katie Schuppler is a Chicago-based fashion stylist.
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!”
Our Favorite Ballet Pumps at a Glance
- Sturdiest: Clarks Neiley Pumps
- Leather Ballet Pumps: Everlane Italian Leather Day Heel
- Gold Ballet Pumps: Ferragamo Vara Pumps
- Pink Ballet Pumps: Margaux The Heel
- Designer Ballet Pumps: Gucci Horsebit Leather Pumps
- Repetto Lookalike: Steve Madden Red Patent Pumps
- The Street-Style Pick: Miu Miu Satin Pumps
- Classic Black Ballet Pumps: Mansur Gavriel Block Heel Pumps
- Most Affordable: Born Ono Pumps
- For the Office: French Sole Trance Heel
- Most Practical: Soft Style Angel II
- Arch Support: Journee Collection Luu-M Pump
- Most Comfortable: Sarah Flint Round Toe Pump
- Chanel Lookalike: Ballerette Leather Flats
- Quintessential Ballet Pumps: Repetto Camille Ballerinas
- Why We Love It: quiet heel, grippy, rubber sole, plush insole
- Heel Height: 2.25’’
- Size Range: US 5 to 12
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.”
- Why We Love It: elastic back won’t rub, block heel
- Heel Height: 2’’
- Size Range: US 5 to 11
Looking for a day-to-day ballet pump? You’ve found it. Everlane’s Day Heel 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 at the company’s factory in Italy and come in a variety of neutral tones. True wardrobe staple right here.
- Why We Love It: lizard embossing, buckle bow
- Heel Height: 1.25’’
- Size Range: US 5.5 to 10.5
A pair of legendary Ferragamos is one of the ultimate fashion splurges. We’re head-over-heels for these lizard-embossed, Italian-made gold ballet pumps. With the block kitten heel and fashionable buckle bow, these shoes will be on rotation for every party and event on your social calendar.
- Why We Love It: inclusive sizing, many color options, padded sole
- Heel Height: 2.5’’
- Size Range: US 3 to 14
Makers of a classic ballet flat, Margaux also churns out a comfortable ballet pump. With its rounded but tapered toe and a heel that is both practical and stylish, the shoe is made to be worn all day. This style comes in 12 colors, including neutral ballerina pink and embossed python (if you’re feeling daring).
- Why We Love It: classic colors, gold hardware, goat leather
- Heel Height: 1’’
- Size Range: US 4 to 11
Google search data shows that Gucci ballet pumps are in demand, and we can’t get enough of this dainty pair. A one-inch heel makes walking a breeze, while the gold hardware adds a glamorous touch. Choose from white, black or neutral goat leather.
- Why We Love It: bold color options, bow detail, grosgrain trim
- Heel Height: 1.25’’
- Size Range: US 5 to 11
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 come in a denim option for a different spin on a beloved look.
- Why We Love It: street fashion favorite, ballerina toe, satin with classic bow
- Heel Height: 3.35’’
- Size Range: US 4 to 12
Bella Hadid kind of broke the internet when she wore Miu Miu’s ballet flats, and now people can’t get enough of the brand’s ballet pumps. With a satin finish, classic bow and nod to the real ballet shoe with a ballerina toe and branded elastic strap, these shoes make a statement. Did we mention the soaring 3.35-inch heel?
- Why We Love It: grosgrain trim, bow accent
- Heel Height: 2’’
- Size Range: US 6 to 11
You can’t go wrong with a classic black ballet pump, and leather goods maker Mansur Gavriel has one that’s sure to be an instant favorite. It’s got an inset, chunky heel and a nod to ballet shoes with the grosgrain trim and bow. Dress it up for dinner out or pair with a relaxed button-down on a day off. “Never been happier with an everyday purchase. So adorable and easy-peasy,” writes a Bloomingdales reviewer. “The bow detail is perfection. I love my flats and this the best iteration.”
- Why We Love It: piped trim, velvet options, supportive leather insole
- Heel Height: 0.5’’
- Size Range: US 6 to 10
Known for creating comfortable shoes, Born offers up a ballet pump with just a slip of a heel. The little height gives it a sophisticated look while keeping it something you’d wear all day. This model comes in five colors, including two velvet options, with the brand’s signature, supportive leather insole.
- Why We Love It: multiple colorways, padded footbed
- Heel Height: 2.25’’
- Size Range: US 6 to 11
This simple ballet pump will pair well with dress pants, skirts and dresses for a sharp and stylish office look. The sleek, tapered block heel is elegant but comfortable, and the rounded toe nods to the ballerina look. Choose from several neutral colors in suede and patent leather varieties.
- Why We Love It: stable heel, supported insole, variety of neutral colors
- Heel Height: 1.25’’
- Size Range: US 6 to 12
Ballet pumps aren’t known for their stellar arch support, but this Journee pump delivers. The padded insole will keep you on your feet all day without complaint. Just ask the reviewers. “I was amazed by the fact that the shoes never seemed to trap perspiration, in spite of my feet living overseas in countries with very hot climates,” a Zappos reviewer writes. “The padded insoles and ‘just right’ heel provided me with hours of comfortable walking.” The shoes come in seven different neutral colors in faux and leather options, with a durable polyurethane outsole.
- Why We Love It: thick kitten heel for balance, padded footbed
- Heel Height: 2’’
- Size Range: US 6 to 11
Ultimate comfort coming right up. Reviewers have praised these ballet pumps for the arch support, thanks to the generously cushioned insole. They’re even a hit with older buyers, proving trends aren’t just for the young folks. “Very nice shoes, very comfortable and a sturdy heel for us older ones!” a Zappos reviewer writes. Choose from three neutral colors and one daring shade of red if you’re feeling brave.
- Why We Love It: inclusive sizing, expanded toe box, inset heel
- Heel Height: 2.75’’
- Size Range: US 4 to 13
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 seven fun suede colors—you might need one of each.
- Why We Love It: Chanel-inspired, grosgrain trim, dual tone
- Heel Height: 1.5’’
- Size Range: US 4.5 to 11.15
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.
- Why We Love It: iconic French style, dainty bow detail, the original ballet flat
- Heel Height: 1.2’’
- Size Range: US 3 to 11
Where else to buy a ballet pump than from Repetto? 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.
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