If you’re a regular around these parts you’ll know that I’m vehemently championing the wardrobes of French women. French style has become aspirational for its anti-trend element and when studying the nuances of French women’s style, I’ve observed the timelessness when it comes to footwear. Like their apparel, there’s an unwavering element to certain styles, which although may come in and out of fashion, are staples in a French women’s arsenal. Take the Mary Jane flat. Its revival heavily inspired in 2023, however, the crossover strap iteration has been celebrated across France and championed for its feminine elements for decades.
The same sentiment applies to ballet flats. Miu Miu undeniably spearheaded the reimagined satin iteration, but ballet flats are known as the epitome of French style and are routinely paired with rigid denim for a dreamy juxtaposition. French women’s shoe preferences are ever so subtle but there’s a common theme — prioritising comfort and with a feminine lilt, by way of streamlined silhouettes. Aside from boots worn during the colder seasons, footwear airs on the side of flat. Most commonly worn heels are itty bitty with women preferring to wear minuscule kitten heels, gloved pumps with block heels or flat-surfaced espadrilles.
As we transition from winter to spring, you’ll notice a slew of slingback and slip-on mules, ballet flats and loafers and continuing into the warmer months, you’ll witness the integration of slip-on sandals, trainers (namely Adidas or Veja) and easy-to-wear thong sandals. It’s like clockwork, but it’s a recipe for success. Continue reading for a round-up of five shoe styles you’re guaranteed to see on French women this spring, from your resident French style reporter.
See the Five Elegant Shoe Trends French Women Are Backing for 2024:
1. Pointed Mules
Style Notes: You’ll be hard-pressed not to find a pair of mules in a French woman’s wardrobe and I’ve been heavily leaning into this style since moving here. It bridges the gap between formal and dressy casual and it can easily be integrated into a transitional wardrobe. The most celebrated styles are pointed with a slight heel.
Shop Pointed Mules:
VALENTINO GARAVANI
Rockstud 20 Embellished Leather Mules
Contrary to popular belief, French women are very fond of pops of colour. This season’s rouge is proving particularly popular.
Vagabond Shoemakers
Altea
The colour, rounded toe and contrasting heel is something to write home about.
COS
Pointed Mesh Slingback Kitten Heels
A netted variation for a trend-forward option.
Charles & Keith
Leather Kitten-Heel Pumps
This season, Charles & Keith have released a number of high quality leather accessories that I consider worth an investment.
Remain Birger Christensen
Matrix 35 Slingback
Remain Birger Christensen have cleverly integrated the mesh fabrication with this classic pointed mule.
2. Mary-Janes
Style Notes: We saw the resurgence of Mary-Janes seasons back but it’s safe to say it’s a forever staple for French women. What’s current, however, is the adoption of micro trends onto classic silhouettes. For this reason, you’ll see them donning mesh detailing, unique straps or fabric styles and I’m certain they’ll be worn for years to come.
Shop Mary-Janes:
LE MONDE BERYL
Leather-Trimmed Mesh Mary Jane Ballet Flats
Flabelus has been donned the new espadrille.
& Other Stories
Mary Jane Pumps
Wear these heeled Mary Jane’s with everything from jeans to frocks.
HUSH
Maeva Mary Jane Flats
Refresh your shoe wardrobe with ecru tones for spring.
John Lewis
Harrietta Mary Jane Leather Pumps
John Lewis’ Harrietta pumps are re-released each spring.
3. Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Contrary to popular belief, French women don’t wear ballet flats all too often, as they prefer to wear trend-forward interpretations such as Mary Jane’s or slightly elevated espadrilles. Having said that, they’ll own at least one pair to wear when the occasion calls. I’ve seen many of my favourite French Saartorialists don Chanel’s iconic ballet flats. It has a wonderful silhouette that’s proven hard to replicate but if it’s not in keeping with your budget, I’ve found some notable and equally chic contenders.
Shop Ballet Flats:
Arket
Leather Ballet Flats
One of the best ballerina flats on the high street.
The slightly squared toe and wooden heel makes all of the difference.
M&S Collection
Leather Bow Ballet Pumps
Why not opt for this classic style in a navy hue?
Jonak
Ballet Flats With Laces
As the owner of these flats, I can attest to the comfort. It’s no surprise as the brand started as an orthopaedic specialist.
ESSĒN
The Foundation Flat
Essen’s Foundation flat is now available in this peek-a-boo iteration.
4. The Micro Heel
Style Notes: You may notice that French women like to prop an outfit up with a little heel. No bigger than a couple of inches but with a statement effect, you’ll see them styled with everything from straight-leg jeans to dresses. This category feels a little miscellaneous but all mini heels create a similar effect.
Shop Micro Heel:
Mango
Pointed Toe Leather Shoes
A wonderful high street offering.
AEYDE
Delia Suede Ballet Flats
Summer suede is infiltrating our fashion feeds, whether it’s adhered to bags or footwear.
Sézane
Martina Heel Pump
Trust Sézane to bring a pop of colour to the party!
Arket
Ballerina Leather Heels
The block heel and gathered leather speaks to me.
Rouje
Nicoise Ballet Flats
Rouje’s Nicoise ballet flats epitomise French style and the colourways are even more impressive.
5. Loafers
Style Notes: Although most French women’s footwear bears a feminine silhouette, they’re often spotted wearing loafers, particularly during the transitional months. Hardwearing, practical, yet chic, they’ve become the bedrock of a footwear capsule. Rigid denim (namely Levis 501s), a pale trench coat and a supple white t-shirt complete the uniform.
Shop Loafers:
Gucci
Gucci Jordaan Leather Loafer
Gucci’s loafers come complete with the iconic horsebit adornment.
TOD’S
Kate Embellished Suede Loafers
The interlinking gold chain paired with the plush beige suede is complimentary.
& Other Stories
Equestrian Buckle Loafers
Every time I see these shoes, I confuse it for its designer inspiration.
The scrunched toe gives these moccasins a modern lift.
Mango
Leather Moccasins With Metallic Detail
I’m impressed by the quality of these loafers.
I’m continuing to back backless loafers this spring and what better colourway than bright beige?