I'm a Brit Living in Paris—6 Easy-to-Wear Trainer Outfits French Women Love
I have an admission, I'm now the proud owner of a cap. Hardly a groundbreaking statement, I know, but long-term readers may know my penchant for overdressing for the simplest of venues. You might be wondering what that has to do with trainers but you could say I've (somewhat) succumbed to the appeal of practicality at the ripe age of thirty-two and I think that my two-piece trainer collection may just follow suit. Despite French women's style being synonymous with dressing up and uniforms comprising jeans, wrap dresses and heels, it also centres on a practical approach to style.
Contrary to popular belief, the Parisian women I see day-to-day aren't always clad in the fanciest pieces, especially not when tending to errands—like frequenting markets or making a beeline for the morning's takeaway espresso. Instead, they often wear practical, easy-to-replicate outfits and trainers are a huge part of the uniform. Biking is a common mode of transport here and many French women I know cycle to and from the office in trainers. Their suave wardrobes encompass trainer outfits, and they are able to incorporate them into classic looks with little to no effort.
The popular trainer choices are streamlined and classic - Adidas Sambas and Gazelles, Vans, Converse and Veja being another well-loved European brand. Colour pallets usually lean towards neutral tones—spanning ecru to grey and plenty of black and white, of course. For ways to wear trainers with ease and sophistication this autumn, continue reading for six ways to elevate trainers.
See My Favourite French Women Trainer Outfits:
1. Baseball Cap + Navy Blazer + Straight-Leg Jeans
Style Notes: Trust French women to make a simple jeans and sweatshirt look chic. To get the look, simple add sunnies and a blazer, and opt for a dark wash denim as opposed to lighter hues.
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2. Red Jumper + Blazer + Leggings
Style Notes: Many of us assume French women's style is synonymous with muted colourways but I've noticed first-hand how much they appreciate pops of colour. I love the juxtaposition of cherry hues with ecru trainers. The addition of socks loans a sports luxe feel.
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3. Navy Jumper + Black Jeans + Vans
Style Notes: This gorgeous look is incredibly refined and oozes the simplicity that French style is most commonly associated with. You'll likely find these individual components in your wardrobe and to elevate dark tones add an accessory in a saturated hue. For outerwear, I'd recommend a camel trench.
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4. Knitted Dress + Monochrome Trainers
Style Notes: A knitted maxi dress paired with trainers is a fail-safe outfit combo come early autumn. Perfect for the weekend, work or a lunch date, it is equal parts comfortable and chic.
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5. Wide-Leg Trousers + Cropped Jacket + Tee
Style Notes: It's not just jeans French women pair their favourite trainers with, wide-leg trousers are also a solid option.
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6. Blazer + Shorts + New Balances
Style Notes: The striped shorts trends took over summer 2024. For those early autumn days when its not too chilly, simply throw on an oversized blazer and pair with your comfy new balance trainers for a chic 'off-duty model' look.
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Avalon Afriyie is a freelance writer and storyteller based in London. She specialises in sustainable fashion, health and the narratives of marginalised communities.
She has a background in fashion show production and styling, having previously worked on The Clothes Show and with the Lyst Group. Since graduating in 2013 with a BA (Hons) in English and contemporary media, she’s worked as a feature writer for an independent publication and a contributor for Quill’s creator network. She now marries her passion for words and style, writing for some of the most esteemed fashion and lifestyle publications,Best Knockoff Luxury Clothing
UK and Stylist.
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