When I think of French women’s style, it’s about elevated basics: tailored jackets, perfect jeans, glossy ballet flats. Leggings don’t exactly spring to mind. Perhaps it’s because I reserve mine for lazy days or trips to the gym—but there’s something about their ultra-casual nature that feels distinctly non-French.
Still, even the chicest Parisians must occasionally succumb to the comfort only a pair of leggings can provide. So, I set out to uncover exactly how French women are styling theirs this season—and, more specifically, which shoe they’re wearing with them.
I quickly came to realise that French women aren’t wearing their leggings with trainers or loafers—they’re tucking them neatly into knee-high boots for a silhouette that feels streamlined, sophisticated and—somehow—unfailingly Parisian.
Perfecting the pairing, most French women keep their leggings jet-black, pairing them with equally dark, tonal boots in either glossy leather or soft suede. The combination creates a long, lean line that looks deliberate rather than relaxed.
Once the foundation is set, the rest of the outfit flows. A polished white shirt elevates the look, while an oversized bomber or wool coat adds a layer of cool. It’s simple, it’s sleek, and it’s proof that even the most comfort-driven pieces can feel sophisticated with the right styling cue.
Below, shop my edit of the best leggings and knee-high boots below.
Shop Leggings
Style these with knee-high boots or pair them with trainers for a comfortable two-piece you can reach for every weekend.
The zipped cuff adds an elevated element that stops these from looking too casual.
These come in 4 different leg lengths, so you can find your perfect fit.
While I love these in the classic black, they also come in a rich chocolate brown.
Style these with the matching sports bra or pair it with a boxy tee.
Shop Knee-High Boots
A classic pair of block heeled, knee-high boots will never go out of style.
Style these with leggings or pair them with a swishy skirt.
The pointed-toe finish gives these such a sleek feel.
The 3-inch heel adds a little extra height without sacrificing any comfort.
From October—March I practically live in knee-high boots, and these are some of my favourites.
-
Forget *It* Styles: These Back-to-Basics Sneakers Make Black Leggings Look Cool and ClassicThese shoes have been around for over 15 years.
-
Hold the Hoodies and Puffers—L.A. It Girls Are Wearing *This* Anti-Trend Item With LeggingsIf anyone knows a good legging outfit, it's Kaia Gerber.
-
3 Low-Effort Winter Outfits I'm Copying From Women in Stockholm, Oslo, and AmsterdamNo plane ticket required.
-
I Just Saved $767 on an Elevated Winter Wardrobe (Thank You, Amazon)Can't get over these Cyber Monday deals.
-
Is Being French Still a Style?A reflection on myth, inheritance, and what remains of it in 2025.
-
Plaid Comes Back Every Fall, But These 5 Outfits Make It Look Thoroughly FreshMad for plaid.
-
Every Celeb From J.Lo to Kate Middleton Knows to Put on This Classic Outfit When They're Unsure of What to WearDon't worry. This look will save you every time.
-
6 No-Brainer Winter Outfit Ideas for When You "Have Nothing to Wear"They're all built around elevated wardrobe essentials you probably already own.
