French Style
May 25, 2023

It's Official: This Is How French Women Are Styling Flat Shoes This Summer

by Avalon Afriyie

Flat shoes are a long-standing style staple for French women. Karl Lagerfeld's Chanel ballerina dates back to 1984. It pioneered the flat footwear innovation, with plenty of ballet flats following in its wake. The swoon-worthy shoe set the precedent for flush-to-the-ground variations and struck an appreciation for elegant and understated styles.

The creation was worn by many, from Bridget Bardot to modern-day style mavens—including French editors and influencers. The two-toned flat swiftly became synonymous with Parisian flair and it engineered the appeal of easy-wearing styles. The popularity of ballet pumps is prevalent on the cobbled streets of France. Brands from Repetto to French Sole have long-produced chic almond toe flats and retailers continue to fuel that demand and churn out classics.

Quintessentially French designers have cornered the footwear market and it doesn't stop at ballet flats either. The variety of flats extends to buckled loafers, slingbacks, open-back flats, sandals and jute espadrilles. Following the lead of Chanel, the Hermes Oran sandal has also proven to be a popular style with French natives.

It's the way French women wear flats that give the down-to-earth renditions that much more flavour. Comfort is pivotal, as is the art of subtle mark-ups—like contrast colour toe caps and horse-bit adornments.

French women experiment most with accessories, so it's no surprise to see modern footwear updates trickling onto the streets of France. Ruched ballet flats, chunky loafers and low platform flip-flops are among some of the latest introductions. Although they aren't the minimalist styles we're accustomed to seeing on French women, they complement feminine silhouettes and are equally suited to straight-leg jeans and blouses.

If you're looking for some chic fashion inspiration, or need reminding that flats are indeed cool, keep scrolling for eight French-inspired outfits. When experimental accessories adhere to comfort, there's no getting in the way of French women!

French women style flats: @louloudesaison in a sleeveless knitted dress and sandals

Photo:

@louloudesaison

Style Notes: Knit dresses are my go-to all year round. As demonstrated by Chloé, you can extend the wear of knitted styles during the summer months by going for a lightweight, sleeveless number and pairing it with slip-on sandals.

Shop the Look:

H&M Rib-Knit Dress

The perfect throw-on dress.

St. Agni Woven Leather Slides

Woven Leather Slides

The charm of a woven shoe is well suited to the French style aesthetic.

French women style flats:

Photo:

@annelauremais

Style Notes: This outfit is evidence that basics are the building blocks for an understated look. Tuck the T-shirt into the skirt and wear it with an overshirt and classic basket to emulate the ultimate (and fuss-free) French style. The magic is in the accessories. The raffia bag and nude flats soften the look through the use of subdued colours, supple textiles, and natural fibres.

Shop the Look:

Everlane The Boxy Oxford

The Boxy Oxford

Wear with mini skirts, linen trousers, jeans and leggings.

Arket Racer Tank Top

I like the delicate look of a thin strap vest.

Arket Cotton Twill Mini Skirt

Cotton Twill Mini Skirt

A French wardrobe classic for everyone!

Loewe Anagram Leather-Trimmed Raffia Basket Bag

Anagram Leather-Trimmed Raffia Basket Bag

Throw in everything from suncream and a book to your makeup bag and charger.

Mango Bow Leather Ballerina

Bow Leather Ballerina

Mango have been nailing the ballet flat trend this year.

French women style flats:

Photo:

@frannfyne

Style Notes: Denim dresses have been a staple piece for French women for years, but it's not until recently they've really made their way into the mainstream. Perfect for any awkward, in-between weather, they look great with trainers, sandals and, as Frann proves, loafers.

Shop the Look:

COS Denim S Dress

Denim Shirt Dress

I've recommended this dress for a few months now and I still attest to the quality and fit.

The Row Half Moon Leather Shoulder Bag

Half Moon Leather Shoulder Bag

Such a chic bag that I know you'll love forever.

Hereu Alber T-Bar Leather Loafers

Alber T-Bar Leather Loafers

Hereu is one of my favourite brands for footwear.

French women style flats:

Photo:

@melodiebance

Style Notes: The LBD is a classic, but the cutouts offer a fresh update. Team with two-tone ballerinas because two classics are better than one.

Shop the Look:

Anthropologie Lara Cut-Out Midi Dress

Lara Cut-Out Midi Dress

The perfect way to wear cutouts casually.

M&S Collection Leather Bow Ballet Pumps

Leather Bow Ballet Pumps

Chanel made sure the two-toned flat would become a forever staple, and this Marks and Spencer pair certainly fits the bill.

French women style flats:

Photo:

@leasy_inparis

Style Notes: The perennial loafer is a Parisian footwear staple. Paired with jeans, a tweed jacket and a fresh white T-shirt, it makes the ultimate transeasonal outfit. J'adore!

Shop the Look:

Mango Pocket Tweed Cardigan

Pocket Tweed Cardigan

So expensive looking.

Arket Crew-Neck T-Shirt

Crew-Neck T-Shirt

If you're in the market for a good quality T-shirt that holds its shape, I solemnly vouch for this one.

Arket Jade Cropped Slim Stretch Jeans

Jade Cropped Slim Stretch Jeans

I've tried these on and they are just perfect.

Gucci Jordan Loafer

One of the most iconic shoes around.

French women style flats:

Photo:

@tamaramory

Style Notes: When it comes to summer dressing, nothing is easier, and chicer, than a white dress. Make like Tamara and pair yours with chunky flatform flip flops and basket bag for an easy look that works every single time.

Shop the Look:

Reformation Jessi Linen Dress

Jessi Linen Dress

This dress is a hardworking piece for every type of occasion, from a beach day to a summer garden party.

Loewe Small Leather-trimmed Basket Tote

Small Leather-trimmed Basket Tote

As per, the OG Loewe basket needs no introduction.

M&S Collection Leather Flatform Flip Flops

Leather Flatform Flip Flops

These M&S platforms are amongst some of the top contenders this season.

French women style flats:

Photo:

@saraloura

Style Notes: This outfit comprises head-to-toe basics which look great together and interchanged. A minimalist strappy sandal always looks polished and put-together. Just tie the straps high or low, depending on your preference.

Shop the Look:

H&M Oversized Linen Shirt

Oversized Linen Shirt

H&M's linen offering this year is 10/10/

Mango Linen-Blend Wrap Skirt

Linen-Blend Wrap Skirt

The epitome of a basic with a very subtle twist (in the form of a tie).

Porte & Paire Suede Sandals

I never thought I'd say this about a pair of strappy sandals, but these are actually stunning.

French women style flats:

Photo:

@emmanuellek_

Style Notes: I'm loving this whole look, which is perfect for summer evenings in the city or on holiday. Emmanuelle pairs her slinky black mini with simple slides, but you could also swap in heels to level up the look.

Shop the Look:

Reformation Marlowe Dress

You can always rely on Reformation for great dresses.

COS Leather Slides

There's something so cool about a chunkier pair of slides.