Ballet Pumps Are Trending (Again) At Copenhagen Fashion Week And We’ve Found The Very Best Pairs

Ballet pumps might not have the swagger of cowboy boots, or the sex appeal of stilettos, but somehow they’ve still managed to edge out the competition as the coolest shoe of summer 2024.

Copenhagen Fashion Week only started yesterday but the footwear must-have has already emerged as ballerinas, with street-stylers wearing every variation imaginable from sheer mesh pumps to balletic sneakers to logoed flats to Maison Margiela's Tabi, the most directional ballet pump of all.

The A-list has been repping the ballet pump for some time now, gravitating towards styles with designer pedigree (naturally). Zoë Kravitz favours The Row, whose buckled ballerinas are the definition of stealth wealth. Alexa Chung is a long-time fan and stans the satin version by Miu Miu, posting sunset selfies in balletic positions last year while on holiday in Amalfi. Sofia Richie, meanwhile, has fallen hook, line and sinker for the fishnet and studded takes from Alaïa, which kick-started the trend for mesh footwear that's hit the high street with full force.

Because, yes, there's a ballet pump for all budgets. If you want a no-frills classic with ‘forever buy’ credentials in soft leather, try Everlane, Arket and Zara. For sustainable ballet slippers that you can throw in the washing machine (yes, really), head to Rothy's, who uses 10 plastic bottles to make its knitted Mary Janes.

For styling tips follow the street stylers of Copenhagen, who paired theirs with everything from white summer dresses and puffball midi skirts to elegant capri pants. Because their personality is pretty (and just a little prissy), a general rule is that ballet pumps need a bit of toughening up. So instead of wearing them with something overly soft, send mixed messages with the addition of a bright red sock, a lived-in leather jacket or low-slung tracksuit bottoms.

One more thing: it might have been cool in school but don’t squish down the backs with your heels. These new-gen ballet pumps deserve respect.

Shop: The Best Ballet Pumps

Natalie Hammond is Grazia’s Senior Fashion News Editor. She loves winter, hates summer and can often be found writing about the weather (and what on earth to wear).