Finding the perfect ballet slipper in Paris

The ballet shoe

Pink or blue, heeled or flat, the ballet shoe from Paris is always a classic.

It’s often said that every little girl dreams of becoming a ballerina. But now, in 2025, girls (and women everywhere) have the freedom to imagine themselves in any role they choose. One thing, however, remains timeless: the ballet flat.

Originally created in France in the mid-18th century to echo the grace of ballerinas, ballet flats quickly transcended the stage and became a fashion essential. They are now a cornerstone of the French wardrobe, available in countless variations and at every price point.

In 1956, Brigitte Bardot commissioned Rose Repetto to design a street shoe version of the ballet slipper—marking the debut of the now-iconic Repetto flat. Just a decade later, in 1967, Catherine Deneuve wore Roger Vivier’s Belle Vivier in Belle de Jour, cementing the shoe’s place in cinematic and fashion history.

Ballet shoes of all colors and prices can be found in shops around Paris.

In the early part of the 20th century, in New York City, the dance shoe company Capezio made the first known version of the ballet flat for street wear.  Fashion designer Clare McCardell ordered them to accessorize every look from her 1941 runway show which showcased separates and loungewear, perfectly matched with the casual yet classy ballet flat.  The style of shoe was also made in France by Rose Repetto, who to this day has the largest selection of the classic look.  In 1956 she made a custom red pair for French actress Brigitte Bardot which she wore in the film “And God Created Woman”.  Finally in 1957 when Audrey Hepburn, already a style icon for her little black dress in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”, ordered a custom pair from Repetto for her role in “Funny Face” the fate of the shoe was sealed: it became an instant staple for everyone looking for that French Chic style.

The latest selection at Repetto, from August 2025

Brands I love who carry the perfect ballet slipper:

J Crew

Repetto

Tory Burch

Roger Vivier

Chanel