Lauded as being effortlessly stylish, the French woman's fashion game is a code many attempt to crack, but few master. One enigmatic facet of their dressing prowess lies in their choice of footwear—specifically the flat shoes they wear. Flat shoes might have dominated this year but, to people in Paris, they've long been a staple in their wardrobes, one which they largely favour over heels. Okay, I'm generalising, but if you've been to Paris lately then I think you'll agree; no one wears flat shoes as well as French women. A blend of comfort and sophistication, flat shoes effortlessly capture the essence of Parisian allure.
More often than not, you'll find French women wearing flats shoes with jeans outfits. This strikingly simple combination might sound like a no-brainer, but their jeans-and-flat-shoe combinations are anything but basic or boring. From classic ballet flats to minimalist loafers, the choice of footwear becomes a canvas for expressing personal style, whilst the jeans add a casual je ne sais quoi to the rest of the look. Then, it's up to you—pop on a blue Oxford shirt, simple knitwear or a sleek blazer, because there's very little you can't style with this classic pairing.
For extra inspiration, I've assembled some of my favourite French-girl outfits that feature jeans and flat shoes. Something tells me these looks will come in handy for the season ahead.
1. Mary Janes
Style Notes: Nodaleto put mary janes back on the fashion map a few seasons ago with its chunky heeled styles, but French women have long worn theirs by way of a flat shoe. Right now, I'm seeing more and more Parisiennes opting for mary janes from brands Le Monde Beryl and Vibi Venezia.
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This is such a great price.
Agolde jeans get our editors' seal of approval.
The contrast edging looks so premium.
2. Mules
Style Notes: When it comes to flat shoes, none look quite as elegant as simple mules. Worn with a jersey top—in this instance, a long-sleeved, ballerina-style—this is a look you can rely on for errand running, coffee dates and meandering shopping trips.
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I own this and think it makes for a polished alternative to a boxy tee.
The high waistline on these jeans will give you a great silhouette.
These come in a handful of chic colours.
3. Ballet Shoes
Style Notes: Of all the French-style clichés there are, there is one that certainly rings true—people in Paris love to wear ballet flats, and do so regularly. Although they loan themselves to dresses and skirts, I'd argue they look their coolest worn with baggy denim.
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The perfect pre-slouched fit.
M&S jeans keep getting better.
A modern take on toe-cap ballet flats.
4. Minimal Loafers
Style Notes: London fashion people live in loafers, and their French counterparts are just as obsessed. Where ballet flats or mary janes can feel somewhat twee, a sleek pair of loafers will give your ensembles an androgynous feel.
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So cosy!
Cropped lengths will better showcase your flat-shoe moment.
These went straight to the top of my wish list.
5. Slingbacks
Style Notes: This season marks the return of the pointed flat, with many of these shoes coming with slingbacks as standard. Although they present the same clean finish as mules, the addition of a strap around the ankle makes them more secure and practical for longer periods of wear. Try styling yours with a pair of chunky socks—this will help you achieve that effortless French aesthetic that's hard to replicate.
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These look so comfortable!
An easy add-to-basket.
Rest assured, these shoes will never date.
6. Chunky Sandals
Style Notes: It's almost time to bring out your sandals. Start by pairing them with jeans and a blazer. Hello, trans-seasonal-outfit perfection.
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It's time to start bringing out the linen blazers.
These classic jeans come in an extended size range.
A pair that would already have me looking forward to summer.
Opening Image: @sylviemus_
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