Apparently, it's time to bid farewell to your loafers (although we'll never part with our Birkenstock Bostons), as millennial-style pumps—otherwise known as ballet flats—are making a comeback and require a spot in your spring capsule wardrobe...
We know what you're thinking—how can this controversial 2000s fashion trend, along with denim maxi skirts, be back in style already? Well, we likely have the rise of the balletcore aesthetic to thank (or blame, depending on your pump stance) for that one. Regardless though, they're back with the likes of Gigi and Bella Hadid, Lily Rose-Depp and Alexa Chung all making a very strong case for them.
So, for anyone looking to style their sheer dress or silver fashion staples with an extra pop of 2000 nostalgia, or wanting to channel their inner ballerina, here's what you need to know about these practical flats and how to style them.
How to wear ballet flats and pumps for spring 2023
For anyone who doesn't know, pumps are traditionally flat or kitten-heeled, leather shoes, that slip onto the foot and often feature a little bow. They're very reminiscent of a ballerina's pointe shoe, hence why they're also commonly dubbed 'ballet flats.'
They usually have a flat, thin sole (so be warned—they're not the most supportive shoes in the world) and are perfect for warmer weather, when you're not in the mood for toe-barring sandals but don't want to melt by wearing a heavier sneaker.
And while you might be getting flashbacks to wearing said pumps with skinny jeans, big belts and long necklaces—don't worry, for now, it's just the shoes that are back in style and they can actually look pretty darn cute when paired with mini skirts and wide-leg pants...
How to style ballet flats
From our TikTok and Instagram scrolling, we've spied the fashion enthusiasts pairing their flats with wide-leg jeans and pants, along with flowing midi skirts and dresses.
As mentioned, thanks to the viral status of all things balletcore, legwarmers and pump combos are also on the rise. There's also demand for flats with chunkier heels, which are perfect to wear with slip dresses and blazer outfits for a pop of sophistication. Or you can take styling cues from Bella Hadid and pair your flats with loungewear, for a more low-key, comfy look.
Styling-wise, pumps are actually quite versatile as you can dress them up and down. If you opt for a chunkier pump or a heeled pump, they're the perfect shoe to wear with a sleek pair of cigarette trousers and midi skirts.
Alternatively, if you're wanting to rep the OG, flat ballet flat, you can pair them with jeans or opt for tights and a skirt—like this look from Gigi Hadid...
As far as Gigi Hadid's outfits go, this is one you can easily replicate! We'd also recommend like Gigi, that you opt for a neutral color, like black or cream (or pink if you really want to embrace the Y2K vibes), so you can style them easily with your other staple pieces.
Alexa Chung is also a great source of inspo, if you're looking for tips on styling pumps for an occasion or date night...
MIL's edit of stylish pumps for spring
So, if we've inspired you to hop on this latest shoe trend—here's where you can snap up some pumps of your own, in prep for the warmer months...
Happy spring shopping!
-
I am blush *obsessed* and this easy multi-use pick always gets me complimentsAs a self-proclaimed blush connoisseur, I swear by ILIA's cheek and lip stick and hopefully, when my work is done, you will too.
-
Emma Chamberlain just debuted the ultimate sexy chic updo—and the wispy look is perfect for fallIf you've been looking for a new, signature hair look for fall, Emma Chamberlain may have just come *through* for you...
-
Everyone wants Golden Goose sneakers for an edgy fall look—but we found the perfect lookalikes for over $500 lessGolden Goose sneakers are *in* for fall—but they don't have to use up your savings...
-
Hailey Bieber gives us a lesson in fall dressing with this edgy Quiet Luxury look—here's how to copy it IRLHailey Bieber just served a masterclass in making Quiet Luxury edgy with four of our fave autumnal style trends...
-
TikTok has found the perfect $30 replica of the viral SKIMS maxi dress—and yes, it's *just* as flatteringLooking for a new maxi dress to layer this fall? These SKIMS dress dupes deliver max style and fit, for $40 less then the OG!
-
I'm obsessed with the COS quilted bag and plan to make it my whole personality this fall—but this $24 swap looks just as expensiveI seriously haven't left the house without my COS quilted bag and have no intention in changing that for the rest of 2023...
-
These Quiet Luxury jewelry picks look *so* expensive and will elevate your outfit with minimal effortLooking for some staple chic accessories to pair with your capsule wardrobe? These Quiet Luxe jewelry pieces are a must...
-
The Totême scarf jacket is back for fall 2023—and we've found the *ultimate* affordable swaps for itThe Totême scarf jacket was the must-have Autumn/Winter pick for 2022 and it's making a very chic comeback...
-
Prada loafers are the *ultimate* IT-girl shoe for fall—but I've found some equally chunky and chic swaps for $1000 lessLooking for a pair of Prada loafer dupes? These five statement pumps definitely fulfill the assignment...
-
Rosalía just wore one of fall's biggest trends while hanging out with Kylie Jenner at Milan Fashion Week and we're obsessedRosalía just gave sweater vests her seal of approval, so here's how to copy her Quiet Luxury look...
