Forget the Trends—These Are the 7 Classic Shoes French Women Rely On in Autumn

With autumn finally here, excitement is mounting for cold-weather dressing. Sunny days might soon be behind us, but the cloud of knitwear on the horizon certainly softens the blow (literally and figuratively).

Shoes sit right up there with woolly jumpers and oversized outerwear on the list of exciting early autumn purchases. From ankle boots to lug-sole loafers, there are plenty of cool and classic footwear options for the transitional months—ensuring you don’t have to go straight from sandals to ski boots. Step into October in dainty ballet flats or a subtle Western silhouette; whether you’ve started reaching for your blazers or are having a hard time letting go of pretty floral dresses, there’s a shoe out there to carry you through the awkward seasonal shift.

Wondering where to start? As always, we suggest consulting the Parisian masters. We’ll never stop waxing lyrical about the timeless allure of French fashion and the mastery of its pioneering designers, who repeatedly seem to hit the sweet spot between elegance and effortlessness. From high-end names like Chloé and Dior to fast-rising brands such as Sézane and Jonak, there’s a common thread among them that’s difficult to define but easy to envy.

Beyond the quintessential labels, it feels like all femmes Françaises have a knack for filtering through the stream of newness that arrives each season and pinpointing the items worth investing in. If you want to dress like those Gallic gurus you follow Instagram, this is the roundup for you. Scroll on to discover the French-girl autumn shoes you need, and when you’re done, start styling your ensembles with help from our favourite Parisian-inspired outfits.

1. Mary Janes 

Style Notes: One of the most noteworthy shoes of the season is the Mary Jane, but French women have long considered them an integral part of their shoe repetoire; one that transcends the seasons. Ensure yours withstand the cold weather with the addition of a cute sock.

2. Knee-High Boots

Style Notes: It doesn't get any classier than this look from Paris-based Sylvie Mus. Longline jacket? Check. Black knee-highs? Check. Effortless attitude from top to toe? Check.

3. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: If I could capture French style using just one outfit, this would be it. The blazer, blue jeans and ballet flats combination has been expertly executed by Paris resident Salomé Mory.

4. Retro Trainers

Style Notes: Understated and ultra comfy, Julie's beach getup is exactly the kind of low-key ensemble I lean towards. Those New Balance trainers would work with relaxed tailoring for smarter occasions.

5. Western Boots

Style Notes: The Wild West comes to France with Leia's elevated on-the-go look. Who says navy and black can't go together?

6. Sleek Loafers

Style Notes: If Annie Hall walked the streets today, I bet her style would look something like this. Switch in black loafers to make this outfit from Franny Fyne even more streamlined.

7. Two-Tone Pumps

Style Notes: Tamara Mory is my go-to for feminine fashion inspo with a Gallic spin, and this outfit is no exception. The subtly matching accessories and complimentary colour palette prove it's all in the details.

This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.