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 ' 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:

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