I'm a Brit Living in Paris—5 Elegant Shoe Trends French Women Are Officially Backing for 2024

If you're a regular around these parts you'll know that I'm vehemently championing the wardrobes of French women. French style has become aspirational for its anti-trend element and when studying the nuances of French women's style, I've observed the timelessness when it comes to footwear. Like their apparel, there's an unwavering element to certain styles, which although may come in and out of fashion, are staples in a French women's arsenal. Take the Mary Jane flat. Its revival heavily inspired in 2023, however, the crossover strap iteration has been celebrated across France and championed for its feminine elements for decades.

The same sentiment applies to ballet flats. Miu Miu undeniably spearheaded the reimagined satin iteration, but ballet flats are known as the epitome of French style and are routinely paired with rigid denim for a dreamy juxtaposition. French women's shoe preferences are ever so subtle but there's a common theme — prioritising comfort and with a feminine lilt, by way of streamlined silhouettes. Aside from boots worn during the colder seasons, footwear airs on the side of flat. Most commonly worn heels are itty bitty with women preferring to wear minuscule kitten heels, gloved pumps with block heels or flat-surfaced espadrilles.

As we transition from winter to spring, you'll notice a slew of slingback and slip-on mules, ballet flats and loafers and continuing into the warmer months, you'll witness the integration of slip-on sandals, trainers (namely Adidas or Veja) and easy-to-wear thong sandals. It's like clockwork, but it's a recipe for success. Continue reading for a round-up of five shoe styles you're guaranteed to see on French women this spring, from your resident French style reporter.

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1. Pointed Mules

Style Notes: You'll be hard-pressed not to find a pair of mules in a French woman's wardrobe and I've been heavily leaning into this style since moving here. It bridges the gap between formal and dressy casual and it can easily be integrated into a transitional wardrobe. The most celebrated styles are pointed with a slight heel.

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2. Mary-Janes

Style Notes: We saw the resurgence of Mary-Janes seasons back but it's safe to say it's a forever staple for French women. What's current, however, is the adoption of micro trends onto classic silhouettes. For this reason, you'll see them donning mesh detailing, unique straps or fabric styles and I'm certain they'll be worn for years to come.

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3. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Contrary to popular belief, French women don't wear ballet flats all too often, as they prefer to wear trend-forward interpretations such as Mary Jane's or slightly elevated espadrilles. Having said that, they'll own at least one pair to wear when the occasion calls. I've seen many of my favourite French Saartorialists don Chanel's iconic ballet flats. It has a wonderful silhouette that's proven hard to replicate but if it's not in keeping with your budget, I've found some notable and equally chic contenders.

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4. The Micro Heel

Style Notes: You may notice that French women like to prop an outfit up with a little heel. No bigger than a couple of inches but with a statement effect, you'll see them styled with everything from straight-leg jeans to dresses. This category feels a little miscellaneous but all mini heels create a similar effect.

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5. Loafers

Style Notes: Although most French women's footwear bears a feminine silhouette, they're often spotted wearing loafers, particularly during the transitional months. Hardwearing, practical, yet chic, they've become the bedrock of a footwear capsule. Rigid denim (namely Levis 501s), a pale trench coat and a supple white t-shirt complete the uniform.

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