I have this recurring dream where I'm twirling around the streets of Paris at twilight, wearing a tulle Dior dress and sporting a beret in the deepest shade of noir, all the while carrying a baguette (bag or bread, either would suffice) in the crook of my arm. Of course, you can't twirl effectively in spindly stilettos, so my footwear of choice is another French-girl staple: ballet flats. Naturally, I wake to discover I'm not in Paris, that the Dior dress was merely on subconscious loan and, to my dismay, there's not a baguette ready to be devoured. However, much like Cinderella, I do have a pair of ballet flats that help me live out my Parisian fantasy in real life.
Back when I first moved to London, I wore ballet flats on repeat. My job as a fashion intern required me to hotfoot it to designer shops at a moment's notice to pick up clothing for shoots, which would inevitably need to be swiftly returned. Ballet flats allowed me to dash around the city at high speed while ensuring I looked as presentable as a sweaty 21-year-old could. However, just last week, I was shopping in Mango when I came across the perfect pair of ballet flats. It felt as if it was 2011 all over again. I slipped them on and instantly felt the comfort and Gallic charm. At a mere £50, they had to be mine.
As the week went on, I realised they went with everything I paired them with: statement skirts, tapered trousers, distressed denim, bright dresses, checks and velvet, to name a few. And I'm not the only one who's clocked on to their versatility. When we start to consider cooling temperatures everyone in the fashion world will pick up a pair, including Parisians who will no doubt wear them with chunky socks. If you haven't yet invested, I've done the hard work for you and found the very best ballet flats for every budget. Turns out that dreams really do come true.
Shop My Edit of the Best Ballet Flats:
The Best Ballet Flats Under £150:
These look incredibly premium.
Cream flats will add a fun touch to any simple jeans look.
Add a playful edge to a jeans and pretty top ensemble.
Perfect for work.
I'm seeing these with jeans, a relaxed grey sweatshirt and a trench at the weekend.
Animal print fans, these are for you.
I love the shape of these.
These come in four different colours and finishes.
The Best Ballet Flats Under £300:
The elongated toe is my favourite part.
A suede black pair will never go out of style.
These are classics, but I love the extra detail of the cross-foot strap.
With a touch of androgyny.
I personally love an elasticated strap over the foot.
This season's hottest take on the ballet flat.
Aeyde's Uma flats come in six chic colours including this metallic hue.
Keep an eye on the release of this chic style.
The Best Ballet Flats Over £300:
A patent style is a great choice for the evening.
This The Row pair is just pure luxury.
A milky offering with a pointed toe.
Manolos are always a great investment, and these are sure to be a favourite in your wardrobe for years to come.
Timeless.
Cool tones are becoming increasingly popular this season.
Suede flats are classic and always in style..
Well, I couldn't not include these viral shoes, could I?!
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