I'll be the first to admit that as much as I love looking at a beautiful pair of heels, I've begun to fall out of love with actually wearing them. Whenever there's a special occasion, be it a party or dinner plans, I'll immediately opt for heels until I end up having to limp home in them afterwards, regretful of my decision. My day-to-day calls for practicality (in other words, comfort), and whether I'm heading into the office or rushing around doing errands at the weekend, I need a shoe I know I can rely on. So, what can I say? Flats can be a sensible and stylish option, so you don't have to compromise on the chic factor to save your feet.
I've already got a wealth of flat-shoe outfits committed to memory for when I need ease in an instant, but what about the days that could do with a little extra je ne sais quoi? Nobody does effortless elegance quite like the French, and to prove it, I’ve put together an edit of looks from some of the most stylish women in Paris and beyond. Consider this your handy cheat sheet to nailing French style with a comfortable twist, so that any time you need an easy yet polished look at a moment's notice, the inspo is here for your perusal.
From pretty ballet flats to styled-up trainers, keep scrolling for six incredibly chic outfits to wear with flat shoes. If any take your fancy, I’ve added my favourite pieces to replicate each look to save you some serious scrolling time. Bon chance!
1. Knit + Miniskirt + Pointed Flats
Style Notes: There's something about pointed-toe shoes that makes an outfit look instantly expensive, and flats are no exception. If you're looking for an ensemble smart enough for the office, allow me to suggest a pair of pointed flats and a miniskirt. This pairing toes the line between preppy and professional and feels less stuffy than a tailored suit.
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You'll wear this with everything.
Such a good shade of blue.
You can't argue with that price.
The best tights on the market, hands down.
They may be high street, but they look designer.
2. White Button-Down + Jeans + Trainers
Style Notes: I've been looking for a way to make trainers feel smarter, and as it turns out, the answer is simply a bright white shirt and indigo denim. Throw a jacket and a roomy tote into the mix and you've got an easy outfit that's ready for anything. Bonus points if you manage to get your hands on a pair of this season's trending trainers, too.
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So elegant for a casual jacket.
You won't find a better white shirt on the market.
2024's biggest jeans trend? Undoubtedly the barrel.
Act fast whilst they're still in stock.
Wear everywhere with everything.
3. Blazer + Miniskirt + Ballet Pumps
Style Notes: Spring has sprung (or at least it's trying to), and that means we're inching closer towards bare-legs season. As it turns out, the satin midi skirts we've been wearing for the past few years look just as good in mini length too, but especially when paired with a boxy blazer and cute ballet flats. It's balletcore-meets-business-class chic.
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If anyone ever asks me where to find a good blazer, this is my go-to suggestion.
Everyone should have one of these in their wardrobe for layering.
Cute as a button.
A teeny, tiny heel for the subtlest lift.
A cult favourite in the making.
4. Maxi Coat + Midi Skirt + Lace-Up Flats
Style Notes: When in doubt, add a long coat. Whether it's a winter wool or a spring trench, the longline silhouette always looks refined with a flat shoe. Take tips from Géraldine Boublil [pictured above] and dress up a casual knit with an interesting shoe for a look that could easily be from a street style shot.
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Hush coats are unsung heroes.
*Immediately adds to wish list*.
Just in case you don't already have a black, satin midi skirt.
Just as special as heels.
5. Oversized Button-Down + Jeans + Loafers
Style Notes: If there's one thing Parisians love, it's an oversized shirt, and here it appears again with straight-leg jeans and loafers. No notes on this perfectly executed ensemble, but if the weather isn't quite as good as it is in France, just add a cardigan to tie around your shoulders in case of emergency.
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Size up and wear loosely unbuttoned.
The ultimate basic.
Our editors agree that these are some of our favourite jeans ever.
You can wear loafers like this for a lifetime.
How to look like you've spent five figures without spending five figures.
6. Breton Top + Wide-Leg Trousers + Slingbacks
Style Notes: Think of French fashion and it's more than likely that Breton stripes and Chanel spring to mind. And whilst there's so much more to the country's style legacy, there's still something to be said about the longevity of this classic monochrome look. Does it look just as good in 2024 as it did in 1944? Absolutely, and we still haven't found a better pairing for a striped top than tailored trousers and two-tone pumps. If it ain't broke…
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Trust Sézane to nail the perfect Breton top.
I've been recommending these to everyone I know.
Yes, please.
A great all-rounder.
6. Midi Dress + Mules
Style Notes: It just wouldn't be the start of spring without with a pretty dress, and taking inspiration from Diane Kari [pictured above], we've decided to pair printed midi dresses with easy slip-on mules. Although this looks like the ideal outfit for lounging in the garden, it works just as well for brunch with friends or running errands—really anything that calls for you to get ready in 15 minutes but look like you took an hour.
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Reformation dresses never fail.
Finally back in stock (but selling fast).
Name a more iconic duo than a printed sundress and a basket bag.
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