Let's be real for a second. If you told anyone in 2015 that we’d be frantically refreshing pages for a pair of hidden-wedge trainers in 2026, they’d have laughed you out of the room. And yet, here we are. Isabel Marant pink sneakers are having a massive, somewhat confusing, and totally delightful "second coming."
It’s not just nostalgia, though that’s definitely part of the fuel. It’s the fact that Isabel Marant basically cracked the code on how to make a shoe that looks like a marshmallow but makes your legs look like they belong to a runway model. Whether it’s the original Bekett, the newer Balskee, or those low-profile Beths with the velcro straps, the pink iterations are currently the "it" item for anyone trying to escape the boring beige "quiet luxury" trap.
The "Ugly Sneaker" That Won’t Die
Isabel Marant herself didn't even like heels. That's the irony. She wanted height without the pain, so she stuffed some cork into a sneaker and changed fashion history in 2009. Fast forward to today, and the Isabel Marant pink sneakers are the ultimate rebellion against the minimalist, clinical white sneaker trend that’s dominated our closets for too long.
People are gravitating toward shades like "Shell Pink" and "Faded Pink" because they act as a neutral but with actual personality. Honestly, they’re easier to style than you’d think. You’ve probably seen the Bekett popping back up on the Lyst Index—it hit number five recently—proving that the wedge trainer is no longer a "dated" relic. It's a statement.
The Breakdown: Which Pink Is Which?
If you’re looking to buy, the sheer number of models can be a headache. You’ve got the:
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- Bekett: The OG. Suede, hidden wedge, chunky velcro. In "Pale Pink," it looks soft but feels substantial.
- Balskee: The Bekett’s younger, taller sister. It’s got a more aggressive platform and a 10cm heel. It’s for when you want people to notice your shoes from a block away.
- Beth: These are the flat ones. No wedge here. They have those cute scalloped edges and three velcro straps. The "Shell Pink" version is a darling of the "ballet-core" crowd who still want the structure of a real shoe.
- Ewie: A more recent addition. It’s a sporty mesh-and-suede hybrid. It feels more like a traditional trainer but keeps that Marant "boho-chic" DNA.
Why Everyone Is Sizing Up (And You Should Too)
Here is the thing most people get wrong: the sizing. Marant is notorious for being... let's call it "optimistic" about foot size. Most users on Reddit and luxury forums will tell you the same thing: size up. If you’re a true EU 38, don’t even look at the 38. Get the 39. Especially with the Beth and Bekett models, the toe box can feel a bit narrow. If you have wider feet, you might even need to go up a full size and a half. It’s annoying, I know, but spending $600 on shoes that pinch your pinky toe is worse.
"Our fit experts say this runs small; order one whole size up." — Actual advice from Nordstrom’s product page.
Styling the Pink Palette Without Looking Like a Cupcake
The fear with pink sneakers is always the "toddler" look. You don't want to look like you're heading to a 5th birthday party. The trick is contrast.
Pairing Isabel Marant pink sneakers with raw denim or charcoal grey oversized trousers is the move. The Duchess of Edinburgh was recently spotted swapping her heels for refined trainers to relax a sharp tailored look. It’s about that "high-low" mix. Marant’s whole vibe is "I just woke up and threw this on, but I also own a vineyard in Provence."
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Material Matters: Suede vs. Leather
Most of the pink models use a heavy amount of suede. It looks incredible, but it’s a magnet for scuffs. If you’re going for the "Faded Pink" suede, buy a protector spray immediately. Seriously. Don't step outside until you've coated them. One rainstorm in London or New York and your $700 investment looks like a sad, damp rag.
The Reality of the "Hidden" Wedge
Is it actually comfortable? Sorta.
If you’re used to flat Sambas or Jordans, the 5cm to 10cm elevation in a Bekett or Balskee will feel weird at first. Your weight is pushed forward onto the ball of your foot. It's a "sneaker" in name, but a "wedge" in physics. They’re great for a brunch or a gallery opening. They are not for hiking or a 12-hour shift on your feet.
How to Spot the Fakes (Because They Are Everywhere)
Because these shoes are back in high demand, the "super-fakes" have flooded the market. If you’re buying second-hand on places like Vinted or Depop, look at the "Marant" logo on the tongue.
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On real pairs, the stitching is dense and the "M" has a very specific, slightly curved shape. The velcro should feel "heavy." If the straps feel thin or like they might snap off, they probably aren't the real deal. Also, check the weight. A real Balskee is surprisingly heavy because of the high-quality rubber and leather. If it feels light as air, it’s a red flag.
Why 2026 Is the Year of Pink Footwear
Fashion is swinging back toward individualism. We’re tired of looking like clones in the same three pairs of white leather low-tops. The Isabel Marant pink sneakers offer a bit of "ugly-cool" that signals you know your fashion history but don't take it too seriously.
They represent a time when fashion was tactile and a bit experimental. In a world of digital perfection, a chunky, pink, suede-velcro sneaker feels refreshingly human.
Actionable Next Steps for the Aspiring Marant Owner
If you’re ready to pull the trigger, follow this checklist to ensure you don't end up with buyer's remorse:
- Check your current EU size and add exactly one full size. If you are a US 8, you are usually a 38, so order a 39.
- Browse the sale sections first. Since pink is considered a "seasonal" color by some retailers (even though it's a perennial favorite), you can often find Beths or Ewies for 30-40% off at places like Mytheresa or SSENSE during the off-season.
- Invest in a suede cleaning kit. Specifically a crepe brush and a translucent eraser. This is non-negotiable for the "Shell Pink" suede.
- Try them with socks first. Marant sneakers have a leather lining that can be "grabby" on bare skin, which leads to blisters. A thin, high-quality cotton sock is your best friend during the break-in period.
Buying a pair of these isn't just a purchase; it's joining a very specific club of people who value height, comfort, and a bit of Parisian weirdness. Just remember: size up, spray them down, and wear them with confidence.