People in Paris Consistently Wear These 6 Flat Shoes With Jeans in Autumn

Lauded as being effortlessly stylish, the French woman's fashion game is one many attempt, but few master. One enigmatic facet of their dressing prowess lies in their choice of footwear, specifically the flat shoes they wear.

Flats might have dominated this year, but to people in Paris, they've long been a footwear staple, 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, they effortlessly capture the essence of Parisian allure.

More often than not, you'll find French women wearing flat 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 nonchalant 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 them (or you); pop on a blue Oxford shirt, a simple knitwear piece 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 outfits from chic French women that feature jeans and flat shoes. Something tells me these looks will come in handy for the season ahead.

1. Button-Down Shirt + White T-Shirt + Cuffed Jeans + Mary Janes

Style Notes: There's something undeniably French about elevating the most classic of basics. Layering a crisp button-down shirt over a simple white tee makes the jeans-and-flats formula feel that little bit more intentional, whilst the neat cuff of the jeans shows off the Mary Janes perfectly—a shoe the French have firmly kept on the map. The result? A look that feels unfussy but quietly polished.

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2. Long-Sleeved Top + Waist Belt + Straight-Leg Jeans + Mules

Style Notes: Here's where proportions come into play. French women are masters at using accessories to shape an outfit, and the addition of a belt over a slim long-sleeved top instantly gives straight-leg jeans that all-important waist definition. With pared-back mules, the silhouette reads sleek without being over-styled—proof that subtle tweaks can make denim feel instantly refined.

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3. Black T-Shirt + Cardigan + Wide-Leg Jeans + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: The French woman's wardrobe is full of little styling tricks, and here's a clever one: wearing a cardigan draped and tied across the body, rather than worn in the usual way (as an alternative to a jumper). It feels more low-key and cool, and with a plain black tee and wide-leg denim, the whole look comes together in that effortless, slightly undone manner the French do so well. The ballet flats in the look pictured here (Chanel, no less) keep things pretty and soft.

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4. Turtleneck + Flared Jeans + Loafers

Style Notes: A turtleneck paired with flares is one of those combinations that never loses its polish, especially when finished with a classic loafer. It's a nod to retro styling, but the clean lines keep it firmly modern. French women often lean on these time-tested silhouettes, knowing they require very little else in the way of accessories to look chic. It's about letting the cut of each piece do the work.

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5. Denim Shirt + Wide-Leg Jeans + Slingbacks

Style Notes: Double denim might feel tricky, but French women prove it's all about balance. A dark indigo shirt paired with lighter jeans creates just the right amount of contrast, giving the outfit depth without feeling too matchy. Adding slingbacks instantly shifts it from casual to polished in the kind of effortless high-low styling way the French have long mastered.

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6. Cropped Jacket + White T-Shirt + Baggy Jeans + Trainers

Style Notes: Yes, trainers absolutely count as flats in the French wardrobe playbook—especially when they're a pair of Sambas. Unlike chunkier sneakers, these have a lower profile, giving the same streamlined effect as a ballet flat or loafer whilst still bringing a sporty edge. Worn with baggy jeans, a clean white tee and a neutral jacket, they keep the look relaxed but not sloppy.

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Opening Image: @sylviemus_