It's Official: This Is How French Women Are Styling Flat Shoes This Summer (2024)

Flat shoesare a long-standing style staple for French women. Karl Lagerfeld'sChanel 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 wasworn 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 flatseither. The variety of flats extends to buckled loafers, slingbacks, open-back flats,sandals and jute espadrilles. Following the lead of Chanel, theHermes 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-legjeansand blouses.

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

See How French Women Are Styling Flat Shoes For Summer:

1. Head-to-toe Neutrals With Slip-On Sandals

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:

2. Blue Shirtand White Skirt With Nude Ballet Flats

Style Notes: This outfitis 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:

3. Denim Midi Dress and Loafers

Style Notes:Denim dresseshave been a staple piece for French womenfor 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:

4. LBD With Two-Toned Ballet Flats

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:

5. Tweed Jacket, Jeans, a White T-Shirt and Loafers

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 transeasonaloutfit. J'adore!

Shop the Look:

6.WhiteDress and a Basket Bag With Flatforms

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:

7. White Shirt, Wrap Skirt and Ankle-Tie Sandals

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:

8. Black Mini Dress And Slides

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:

Next Up:The Simple Top French Women Wear With Jeans, Skirts and Trousers