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

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 in my eyes. If French girls love them, I do too.
Although my exact pair has sold out (sorry), 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).
Ballet pumps were the height of cool circa 2008 thanks to Kate Moss and her weakness for Repetto. They may have lost their popularity for a few years, 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.
Keep scrolling to see and shop the best ballet flats from M&S.
Shop Marks and Spencer's Best Pumps:
There's something about suede that just looks extra elevated—and these get bonus points for being stain resistant.
Mary Janes are the other top flat shoe style that keeps making a comeback, and this silver pair is set to replace my evening heels this year.
If you're determined to have a little lift, these court heels will do the trick.
For a Parisian look, style with white socks and a mini skirt.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Next Up: The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week
Opening Image: @emilyjdawes
Emma is a freelance fashion editor with over 15 years experience in industry, having worked at The Telegraph, Grazia and, most recently, British Vogue. Emma was part of the founding team of Who What Wear UK, where she worked for six years as Deputy Editor and then Editor—helping shape the team into what it is today is one of the biggest privileges of her career and she will always see herself as aBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing girl, contributing to both the US and UK sites. Whether she's writing about runway trends or spotlighting emerging brands, she aims to write about fashion in a way that is democratic and doesn't promote over consumption.
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