This French-Girl Shoe Trend Is All I Want to Wear This Spring

Ballet flats are less a trend than an icon. Over the years, the dainty shoes have become full-fledged classics. And not just the past few years—Chanel’s version has been popular since 1957 when Audrey Hepburn first wore it on the set of Funny Face. So just a casual 65 years being one of fashion’s most coveted shoes, then. If you were debating whether you’ll get enough wear out of an investment pair, that fact just might help make the decision for you.
Chanel's iconic ballet flats are so timeless.
Their popularity is undoubtedly thanks in part to Chanel’s iconic iteration and the effortless French-style connotations that come with it. But it’s also a result of how versatile ballet pumps can be. Dressed up or down, they add a polished finishing touch to any outfit—from a casual T-shirt and cropped jeans to a miniskirt—and I’ll happily claim that a better spring shoe has never existed. As boot season comes to an end, but it’s not quite time to get your toes out in sandals, ballet flats provide the perfect transitional solution.
As consistently timeless as they are, like any fashion piece, ballet flats have seen their place as the industry’s most coveted spring shoes fluctuate season on season. The last few years, for example, loafers have pipped them from the top spot. But for 2022, the ballet pump is well and truly back in the limelight, having been not only featured on plenty of runways but also reinvigorated by the street style set and influencers alike.
Lorna wears the Aeydē ballet flats.
I don’t know about you, but I’m currently in that stage of not having a clue which shoes to wear as I reach the door each morning, so I thought it would be the perfect time to round up the very best spring ballet flats around right now in case you’re in a similar position. I’ve added a mix of iconic investments and more affordable high-street options below. Keep scrolling to shop!
Shop the Best Spring Ballet Flats
Up Next: These 5 Sandals Will See You Through the Entire Summer

Emily Dawes is an editor, stylist and writer with over 12 years in the industry. Known for impeccable taste, our readers trust her advice, especially in her column, expensive-looking high street buys. Working forBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK since 2020, Emily has been a contributing editor, branded content editor and affiliate editor. Now, as senior shopping editor, she leads the e-commerce content strategy. After obtaining a BA in English and American Studies from Nottingham University, Emily landed at The Mail on Sunday’s YOU. As the magazine’s fashion editor, she travelled the globe to style and direct fashion editorials and celebrity cover shoots. As a freelancer, she has styled Grazia cover shoots, developed brand marketing and content plans and worked with VIP clients including Elizabeth Day.
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