9 best ballerina flats
Step out in classic, elegant flats this
autumn. IndyBest find pairs for work and play
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Your support makes all the difference.With this transitional weather, it’s tricky to know what to wear on your feet. Ballet pumps are the perfect compromise before we get into boots weather. We've trawled the high street and beyond to bring you pretty and practical pairs.
You can trust our independent reviews. We may earn commission from some of the retailers, but we never allow this to influence selections, which are formed from real-world testing and expert advice. This revenue helps us to fund journalism across The Independent.
1. Moda in Pelle: £69.95, modainpelle.com
These snakeskin-effect silver leather pumps are super-versatile. Metallics go with everything and though they’re embellished with blingy spikes and beads, the decoration is subtle enough to work with casual looks. Thanks to the padded leather insole, these are also really comfy.
2. Ella Soft Black Suede with Dark Red Patent Love Heart: £129, prettyballerinas.co.uk
Based in London, but made in Menorca, Pretty Ballerinas has a big celebrity following, including Olivia Palermo and Kate Moss. This black suede pair has an on-trend pointed toe and a fun red patent heart for a playful yet glam look.
3. Briella Black: £75, dunelondon.com
Dune’s Briella collection of flats and courts is reminiscent of Manolo Blahnik’s Hangisi satin shoes but without the designer price tag. This elegant suede pointed pair with a jewelled square brooch is available in five colours, but be quick, they’re selling out fast.
4. Wide Fit Tan Woven Pumps: £15, dorothyperkins.com
Have wide feet and struggle to find comfy shoes? Then these good-value ballerinas might be for you. They have the classic round toe, but the woven material adds texture. They’re faux leather but they don’t look cheap and for £15, they’re a steal (you get 25% off until this Sunday). They also come in black.
5. Blue Croc: £120, frenchsole.com
London-based French Sole is synonymous with ballet flats. This blue patent leather pair with a luxe mock-croc effect has the label’s standard shape - the front’s cut lower than usual so you reveal a bit of toe cleavage - and they’re a slim fit. Unlike many pairs with bows, this one can be adjusted for a perfect fit. They’re expensive, but we think they’re a smart investment - and they come in half sizes.
6. Miss KG Maye: £32, amazon.co.uk
These Chanel-esque quilted, monochrome ballerinas from Kurt Geiger’s diffusion line will go with everything. They also come in black.
7. Leather Round Toe Ballerinas: £28, next.co.uk
With their classic shape, and in an easy-to-wear colour, these nude leather ballet pumps are great value for money. The gold hardware on the bows gives them a luxe look and the footbed is cushioned for extra comfort. They also come in black.
8. Finest Ghillie Lace Up Flats: £28, topshop.com
Ghillies were originally designed for Irish dancing and now the pretty style (ballet flats with lace-up spaghetti straps) has taken the fashion world by storm. These poppy red ones have unusual serrated edging and will add a pop of colour to your autumn wardrobe. If you can stretch the budget, Topshop also has some great leather pairs.
9. Asos La La Ooh Ballet Flats: £18, asos.com
These ones are the classic soft ballerinas with a rounded toe, bow detail and a minimal heel, but the quirky French message on the toe makes these stand out from the pack.
Verdict:
Tophop's pretty, affordable ghillies will inject a bit of colour to your wardrobe and help you keep up with the fashion pack. If you're after a pair of classic ballerinas, then Next’s leather nude ones are a good buy.