Shoes
Jan 26, 2023

Ever Since I Bought These £35 M&S Flats, I've Struggled to Wear Anything Else

by Emma Spedding

Marks and Spencer is one of our favourite places to shop for long-lasting wardrobe staples and has a strong track record of every day turning basics into cult items, whether it's their great jeans or that luxe-looking bag. I am most impressed by M&S' footwear department, and wear a pair of ballet pumps at least nine days out of ten, as they are the comfiest shoes I own. I've had them for over a year now, and they just keep on going…

These £35 pumps have a minimalist design and elevated feel thanks to the softened almond toe. There's something a little Phoebe Philo about this silhouette, no? And something a lot Parisian, which is always a winner n my eyes. If French girls love them I do too.

Although my exact pair has sold out (sorry), for this winter there are different iterations with slightly different toe shapes (square? almond? pointed? you decide) and a variety of cuts (you can find lower-cut and more rounded-out styles).

M&S Collection ballet pumps: Emily wears black ballet pumps with an elastic strap

Photo:

@emilyjdawes

Ballet pumps were the height of cool circa 2008 thanks to Kate Moss and her weakness for Repetto. Over the past five years, however, they have lost their popularity, but in 2022 ballet flats came roaring back to reclaim their status as a wardrobe staple, and fashion insiders are already picking up pairs. We find they look best when they have a more structured shape and a solid sole like the M&S pair. Because no one wants a soggy ballet pump like the unsupported styles that dominated in the noughties.