Must-Have Parisian Shoes Your Closet Needs
As someone who lives in America, but heart lies in France, I am always finding ways to incorporate Parisian & French style into my wardrobe. One of the easiest ways to do that is by incorporating Parisian shoes into your wardrobe.
That’s why, in today’s post I am going to share with you my favorite Parisian-style shoes that will have you channeling that effortless-chic style in no time.
This post is going to cover different style Parisian shoes, everything from the classic ballet flats to the perfect style summer shoes, fall staples, and the best Parisian shoes to wear on a night out.
These Parisian shoe staples are a must-have in every closet, whether you’re trying to channel the French-girl aesthetic, or make room for a capsule-styled wardrobe.
Here are 10 must-have Parisian Shoes to get that “effortless style” all French girls have!
Ballet Flats: The Classic Parisian Shoe
If there’s one thing Parisians do well, it’s combining comfort and style.
Since Paris is such an old city full of cobblestones, uneven surfaces, and stairs, the French have adopted comfortable shoes that don’t slow them down: Classic Ballet Flats.
This Parisian shoe staple comes in so many different styles, variety, colors, and brands. On my last few trips to Paris, these were the one shoe I opted for every single day.
Ballet flats are comfortable, low maintenance, and truly go with every single outfit. I love to wear them with dresses, skirts, trousers, and shorts.
Coco Chanel made these shoes an iconic Parisian staple. While I will always & forever adore the classic Chanel flats, I prefer to opt for more affordable options since I know I will be wearing them everyday and don’t want to worry too much about wear and tear.
Here are some affordable yet comfortable & chic ballet flats I own and love! Click to shop
White Sneakers: Casual Parisian Sleek
Yes, Parisians consider sneakers (specifically white sneakers or trainers) to be incredibly chic. Chances are, you already have a pair sitting in your closet, trés convenient!
A classic pair of white trainers can make any outfit look stylish, take a look at some inspo I love below!
These versatile shoes effortlessly bridge the gap between casual and polished, making them a staple in every modern Parisian’s wardrobe.
White sneakers complement a wide range of outfits. They can be perfectly paired with a dress (as pictured above), or even worn with tailored trousers for a smart-casual look. Alternatively, dress them down with vintage jeans or a matching set, and you’re good to go!
The beauty of white sneakers lies in their ability to add a youthful, fresh touch to any ensemble without compromising on style. The Madewell sneakers below are one of my favorite!
Here are some white trainers I’m loving this season. Click to shop
Espadrilles: The Perfect Parisian Summer Shoe
If there’s one shoe that screams “Parisian summer,” it’s the espadrille.
These breezy canvas shoes with their iconic rope soles are perfect for strolling along your favorite port or river, or sipping coffee at a sidewalk café. Parisians love them for their laid-back charm and versatility.
Espadrilles come in all sorts of styles – flats, wedges, and even ankle-tie versions. On my last summer trip to Paris, I spotted them everywhere, from the Marais to Montmartre.
What’s great about espadrilles is how effortlessly they dress up or down. Pair them with a flowy sundress for a picnic in the Tuileries, or rock them with cropped jeans for a casual day of museum-hopping.
While luxury brands like Chanel & Dior make gorgeous espadrilles, there are tons of affordable options that are just as chic. After all, part of that effortless French style is looking fabulous without trying too hard (or breaking the bank)!
Here are some gorgeous, comfortable espadrilles. Click to shop
Sandals: Effortless Elegance for Warmer Days
If there’s one thing Parisian style embraces, it’s effortless elegance in warm weather.
Since French fashion is all about looking chic without seeming to try too hard, sandals have become my go-to for channeling that effortless summer look. Parisian-inspired sandals come in a variety of styles, from minimalist flats to elegant heeled versions.
I’ve been LOVING the Hermès Oran sandal look, but you guys know I’m all about looking elegant and poised without having to spend an arm and a leg.
I found this incredible pair of Hermes-inspired sandals from Tuckernuck, and I’m absolutely obsessed! They’re in the cognac color, and give a very similar aesthetic to the $700 luxury designer shoe.
These sandals are just perfect for warm days, and can be worn in both the spring and summer. I love wearing them with cropped pants, flowing skirts, or even a casual shirt-dress (as pictured above) for a touch of Parisian flair.
Here are some of my current favorite sandals. Click to shop
Loafers: Comfort Meets Parisian Style
Loafers are the ultimate day-to-night shoe, easily transitioning from office hours to evening apéritifs.
I love how they add a touch of sophistication to any outfit while keeping things comfortable for long days of city walking.
Parisian-inspired loafers come in various styles, from classic leather to trendy patterns and materials. Some of my favorite brands to buy classic loafers are Sam Edelman and Quince.
These versatile slip-ons have become a staple in the French fashion scene, offering a polished look without sacrificing ease. These are the perfect transitional spring to fall shoe as well.
Loafers are the key to a timeless look, a must-have Parisian shoe staple! Click to shop.
Mules: The Loafer Backless Alternative
Similar to the loafer, these backless beauties have taken the French fashion world by storm. They offer a perfect blend of sophistication and ease, making it a great alternative to the loafer.
This shoe is a Parisian classic, as they are easy to wear and you can wear them with everything from cropped jeans to flowing midi skirts. They can truly be worn with so much!
Mules are the ultimate throw-on-and-go shoe, ideal for those mornings when you want to look put-together without spending too much time or effort.
I love how they can instantly elevate a simple outfit, adding that ‘je ne sais quoi’ to even the most basic ensemble.
Here are some of my favorite mule styles below. Click to shop
Stacked Heels: Retro-chic Comfort for Parisian Sidewalks
If there’s one thing I noticed about Parisians, or French women in general, it’s that they prioritize a very classic and practical style.
Rather than walking around in stilettos or pointed heels, which would make for a great enemy on Europe’s cobblestoned streets, these women opt for a more stacked heel.
These retro-inspired shoes offer a perfect balance of height and stability. Parisian-style stacked heels come in various forms, from sleek ankle boots to chic sandals and pumps. I love how they add a touch of elevation to any outfit without the wobbliness of stilettos.
Stacked heels are a godsend for navigating city streets while maintaining that coveted French allure. If you’re the type with a curated ‘capsule wardrobe’ look, stacked heels are the perfect Parisian shoe style to add to your collection.
These two stacked heels below are my current favorites in my collection. Click to shop.
Knee-High Boots
This has to be my all-time favorite shoe for the colder, winter months. There is nothing like an iconic boot moment, and these knee-highs will have you turning heads, especially when paired with the right outfit.
The thing about knee-high boots is that they truly can be the ‘main character’ of any outfit. You can wear them with short or midi dresses, over a pair of fitted jeans, with mini or longer skirts, sweater dresses, and they would look simply iconic with a coat dress.
I own a pair of classic black knee-highs that I bring out every winter season, and apart from minor scuffing, they’ve held up great for the last 3 years. My favorite way to style them is with long coats and short dresses.
Knee-high boots come in dozens of styles and colors, but my go-to’s are the classic black ones in a leather swatch; they are so timeless. Stuart Weitzman is known for their beautiful, classic knee-high boots, but if you don’t want to splurge on the price tag, here are some great alternatives!
Beautiful & Affordable Knee-high boots. Click to shop.
Ankle Boots: The Timeless Parisian Shoe
A classic shoe for the autumn and winter seasons are most coveted by French classic shoes.
Pointed-Toe Pumps:
I absolutely love a good heel, and nothing screams ‘Paris’ like the perfect pointed-toe pump. How’s that for a tongue twister?
While dressing down is ironically the ultimate form of chic in Paris, there is something to be said about the iconic pumps that Parisians strategically pull out from the depths of their closet, and wear for a soirée on the town.
Now let’s talk kitten heels. Kitten heels are all the rave, and it’s not hard to see why. They give off an elegant vibe with the pointed toe shape, but the real beauty of this shoe is that they’re comfortable to walk in.
With a heel that’s designed for longer distances, and, dare I say, made for walking, kitten heels are the perfect option for a dressy, going-out Parisian shoe. Remember, true Parisian style starts at the base of comfort.
The perfect kitten heels that were made for Paris. Click to shop.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a trip to the City of Lights, or simply want to infuse your everyday look with a touch of French elegance, these shoes will assimilate easily into your life.
Mix and match them with your favorite outfits to create that coveted put-together-yet-effortless appearance that Parisians do so well.
Ultimately, true Parisian style is about confidence and comfort. Choose shoes that make you feel fabulous, and wear them with the nonchalant grace that Parisian women do.
With these 10 Parisian-inspired shoes as your closet staples, you’re well on your way to mastering that effortless French style we all want to emulate. Bonne chance et bon style!
