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

February 01, 2022 at 08:00AM

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 a grey jumper or a beige wrap coat. 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…

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These £35 pumps have a high cut and a gentle V towards the toe, which make them appear more elevated that the classic almond toe. There’s something a little Phoebe Philo about this silhouette, no? I personally stick to a plain black pair, but there are many other colours and finishes to choose from, like woven silver or soft suedes. Going into autumn 2021, there are also different iterations with slightly altering 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. Over the past five years, however, they have lost their popularity, but ballet flats remain a chic classic that fashion insiders are steadily returning to. 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 £35 pumps. 

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Next up, the major shoe trends of 2021.

This piece was published at an earlier date and has since been updated. 

Author Emma Spedding | Whowhatwear
Selected by CWC