It’s the moment your 2000s-era self has been waiting for: the ballet pump is back in style. 

It makes sense because, for the last few years, Y2K fashion has been on almost every runway and influencer we can think of. But, before the 2000s, the ballet shoe was loved in the ’50s by fashion muses Audrey Hepburn and Brigitte Bardot. Both wore designs by Rose Repetto, and the style subsequently became a must-have, with the likes of Jane Birkin and Caroline de Maigret flying the shoe’s flag through the ensuing decades.

And in 2023, what defines a ballet shoe has become somewhat elastic – there are heeled versions, Mary Jane hybrids, squared-toes and slingbacks – but one thing remains salient; they all echo the delicate silhouette of a real dancing shoe. Here, we’ve found the 10 most beautiful styles to buy on Sloane Street. 

Chanel’s two-toned flats were imagined by founder Coco in 1957 and they remain the crème de la crème decades later – their contrasting toe-cap has been emulated by many others since, but never outdone. We love this shimmery pair, which also includes another of the maison’s longstanding signatures: tweed.

 Ballet shoes with iconic emblems and patterns that have endured for decades make a sound choice – after all, they’re proven to be timeless. Burberry’s flats incorporate its vintage check, while Dior’s elegant slingbacks are decorated with the Plan de Paris motif – inspired by the area around Dior’s Avenue Montaigne HQ – and a star for luck on each of the leather soles. Gucci’s low heels feature the signature horsebit that its founder first placed on a pair of shoes in the ’50s, and Saint Laurent’s retro ‘Anaïs’ slingbacks (hello, the ’80s) are detailed with its famed monogram, created by graphic designer Cassandre in 1961. Consider Valentino’s bold rockstud-trimmed red satin ballerinas, too – the brand’s iconic hardware is lacquered to ensure each stud stays shiny even after lots of wear. 

A pointed-toe silhouette feels ultra feminine and elongates the leg, as you’ll see from Ferragamo’s fuzzy leopard-print pair. The bold pattern is enough to set off even the simplest outfit. Then there is Di Minno’s sparkly pair, which will feel like a disco on your feet. They’re perfect for dancing the night away without the regular breaks that stilettos call for.

Still in search of the perfect pair? Giorgio Armani’s nappa leather flats might be just the ticket. The delicate ankle chain strap epitomises the Italian band’s signature minimalist elegance, and we think these will prove a universally wearable addition to your collection.

And finally, the shoe of the moment: Bottega Veneta’s mesh pumps have rarely been absent from our Instagram feed this summer – Rihanna, Hailey Bieber, Camille Charrière and Pernille Teisbaek have all added them to their wardrobes. Invest in this crystal-embellished flat pair and stroll down Sloane Street knowing you’re wearing shoes approved by the fashion crowd.