The ballet flat epidemic gripped London with unimaginable force. Notting Hill transformed into a sea of Alaïa-inspired flats while Hackney dwellers became walking PRs for Puma’s silver ballet sneakers. Born in 2024, the trend has refused to slow down. This year has already witnessed the ascension of Aloha’s tie-front variations, in addition to The Attico’s mesh Nomad sneakers which are taking the luxury sphere by storm.
However, this season there’s a new kid in town. Introducing block heeled ballet pumps - the low-heeled slip-ons peppering the wardrobes of every It-girl across town. Championed by brands such as Repetto, Stuart Weitzman and Tory Burch, these modest yet girlish pumps effortlessly marry nostalgic school-girl style and practical polish.
There’s something undeniably retro about the sweet shoe. The design evolved from classic ballet flats, gaining popularity in the 1960s thanks to designers like Roger Vivier and Ferragamo. Revived in the 1990s and again in the 2010s, the shoes remain a chic, wearable staple that serve up preppy style with every step.
© GC ImagesThe A-lister set seem to think so too. Fashion pioneers including Alexa Chung, Devon Lee Carlson, Olivia Rodrigo, Iris Apatow and Laufey have been long-standing fans of the block heeled ballet flat - but Kaia Gerber is the one vigorously flying the flag for the shoe in 2026.
Not only has the model-turned actress been spotted on several occasions sporting her beloved blocked slip-ons, but she has officially teamed up with Repetto to release a capsule collection of sweet new kicks that radiate Parisian chic. Inspired by the iconic Cendrillon ballet flats, the silhouette comes in a vibrant lipstick red colourway - the perfect pop of colour for any spring wardrobe.
© GC Images
© @alexachung
© @laufeyFeminine and easy-to-wear, these celeb-approved heels are here to stay. Discover how to style them below and slip into SS26 with feminine flair.
How to style block heeled ballet flats:
Upper East Side Style
Style some classic black block heel pumps with a touch of gingham and some ankle-length socks for a thoroughly Gossip Girl-inspired look.
Mesh Magic
For those who want to steer away from bold palettes, slip into some knee-length mesh socks to elevate your pretty pump look.
Pink Accents
Infuse your wardrobe with some early Aughts elegance by adding a baby pink accent to your outfit. Take it one step further and match your handbag to your shoes for a true Y2K feel.
Bloomer Beauty
Like ballet flats, bloomers are here to stay. Double down on trends and pair these two girlish staples to craft a highly romantic yet playful aesthetic.
Animal Print Perfection
A lick of animal print goes a long way - it also makes for the ultimate modern contrast to the classic cut of block heeled footwear.
Sporty Spice
Contrast is key when it comes to styling out block heel flats. Take heed from the outfit above, which merges sporty themes with sweet balletcore motifs.
Boyfriend Chic
A pair of boxer shorts, the kind that look borrowed from your boyfriend’s wardrobe, exude effortless cool. Elevate the look with polished pumps to add a touch of sophistication (and a little extra height).
Dreamy Denim
Nothing beats a clean-cut pair of jeans. The retro slacks radiate off-duty cool and pairing them with a bright red pump will take you from office to after-hours drinks with ease.
Shop our favourites:
Camille Ballet Flats
Repetto x Marine Serre
Dotted with Marine Serre's signature crescent moon emblem and finished with a rich, inky black backdrop, these Repetto ballet flats have been topping our wish list for quite some time now.
Ballet Slingback Pump
Dior
Complete with the maison's iconic Dior monogram in a classic blue colourway, these designer puppies are a preppy lesson in luxury occasionwear.
High-Heel Ballerinas
Massimo Dutti
Crafted from supple sheepskin, these black block heeled ballerinas from Massimo Dutti are an absolute failsafe. Perfect for in-office styling all year round.
Nicoise Pumps
Rouje
Feel pretty in pink thanks to Rouje's adorable Nicoise Pumps which featured a suede, rose-hued exterior and sweet bow accents.
Low Heel Mesh Fabric Ballerinas
Prada
One for the designer fiends, Prada's mesh options are ideal for braving the London heatwave this summer. We'd style ours with a simple black mini dress or capri pants.
Valet Du Roi Ballerina
Valentino
A stunningly playful pick crafted from textured ponyhair, Valentino's luxury animal print ballet pumps are set to turn heads.
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