What Shoes Do Parisian Women Wear? 6 Timeless Styles French Women Swear By
If there’s one thing living in Paris teaches you quickly, it’s this: your shoes matter more than your outfit.
Paris is a walking city. You take the metro, climb stairs, cross cobblestones, and wander for hours — and yet Parisian women still look polished, never like they dressed for a hike.
So what are the shoes Parisians wear every day? The answer isn’t trendy or flashy. French women rely on a small rotation of timeless, comfortable, and versatile shoes that work with almost everything in their wardrobe.
What Shoes Do Parisian Women Actually Wear?
The shoes Parisians wear aren’t statement pieces or trend-driven buys. They’re understated, well-made, and chosen for real life. Think neutral colors, low-to-mid heels, and silhouettes that work from morning café to evening apéro.
Most Parisian women rotate through a small collection of classic Parisian shoes that pair easily with jeans, dresses, tailored trousers, and coats. These are shoes that make every outfit look more refined — without trying too hard.
If you’re building a French-inspired wardrobe, start with the clothing foundation in my guide to 10 Parisian Style Staples You Can Add to Your Closet Right Now.
The 6 Essential Parisian Shoes
These are the core styles you’ll see on repeat across Paris — from students in the Marais to elegant women in Saint-Germain.
Ballet Flats
No shoe is more iconic among the shoes Parisians wear than the ballet flat.
Soft, simple, and endlessly wearable, ballet flats are a cornerstone of French girl style. They’re worn with straight-leg jeans, midi skirts, tailored trousers, and bare legs in summer.
Look for leather or suede in neutral shades like black, beige, or navy, with minimal hardware. I personally own the iconic Cendrillon Ballerina Flats from Repetto, which I find versatile and always elegant.
They’re comfortable enough for everyday walking and polished enough to elevate even the simplest outfit — especially with classic denim like the styles in my guide to the best Parisian-style jeans and how to wear them.
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Leather Loafers
Loafers are the slightly more structured cousin of ballet flats — and a major part of the everyday shoes Parisians wear.
They add instant polish to jeans and a sweater and are perfect for transitional seasons like spring and fall. Parisians tend to choose classic leather styles over chunky or heavily embellished versions.
I personally own the classic Weston Mocassin 180 in black and these Bougeotte loafers in a light beige suede.
You’ll often see them styled with straight jeans, tailored trousers, or oversized blazers — the same effortless silhouettes featured in many French fashion brands Parisians love.
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Minimal Leather Sneakers
Yes, sneakers are absolutely among the shoes Parisians wear — just not the gym kind.
The typical Parisian sneaker is clean, streamlined, and neutral. Think smooth leather, low profile, and little to no visible branding. These are also the best shoes for walking in Paris when you want comfort without sacrificing style.
They pair beautifully with cropped jeans, long wool coats, and casual dresses. If you want to find brands that fit this aesthetic, I’ve shared my favorites in the best French sneaker brands that Parisians actually wear.
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Ankle Boots (Bottines)
From October to April, ankle boots are everywhere. Known in French as bottines, they’re one of the most practical shoes Parisians wear in cooler weather.
Flat or with a low block heel, they work with tights and skirts, dresses, or tucked-under jeans. Classic choices include black leather or dark brown in smooth or slightly matte finishes.
I personally own and love these (I have the Taupe and the Black) and find I can dress them up or down, and are perfect if I’m not in a mood for heels — if you’re a half size like I am, make sure to size up. For dressier looks, I’ve also been reaching a lot for these, and also love these and these.
They’re also essential if you’re dressing for unpredictable weather — like in my guide on how to dress for the rain like a Parisian.
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Simple Leather Sandals
In summer, the shoes Parisians wear shift to minimal leather sandals — nothing too strappy, flashy, or high.
Flat sandals or very low heels in tan, brown, or black are the go-to. They’re worn with linen trousers, floaty dresses, and denim shorts, always looking relaxed but intentional.
I’ve had several pairs of these for years and reach for them each year. For dressier looks, I always find that a simple black heeled sandal works best to elevate looks. These are current favorites.
These are the Paris summer shoes that feel effortless rather than beachy — and they work perfectly with the light layers I recommend in what to wear in Paris in the summer.
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Low Elegant Heels
For evenings, dinners, or events, French women usually opt for low, elegant heels rather than towering stilettos.
Think kitten heels, slingbacks, or low block heels. These styles are feminine and refined, but still realistic for walking short distances on Paris streets.
These and these are more affordable favorites.
You’ll often see them styled with silk scarves or structured handbags — two accessories that instantly elevate an outfit, as I share in my guides to French silk scarf brands and Parisian handbag styles.
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How Many Shoes Do French Women Own?
Despite the stereotype of the endlessly stylish Parisienne, most French women have a relatively small, practical shoe wardrobe.
A typical capsule of the shoes Parisians wear might include:
- 1 pair of ballet flats
- 1 pair of loafers
- 1 pair of minimal sneakers
- 1 pair of ankle boots
- 1 pair of sandals
- 1 pair of low heels
That’s it — six pairs that cover almost every occasion.
The Parisian Shoe Color Palette
Just like the rest of a timeless French wardrobe, the shoes Parisians wear stick to a restrained palette.
Most common colors include black, camel or tan, brown, and white (mainly for sneakers). Occasionally you’ll see deep red or burgundy, but bright or flashy colors are rare for everyday wear.
This limited palette is what makes French outfits look cohesive and easy — and why accessories like scarves and handbags often become the subtle statement pieces instead.
Best Shoes to Wear in Paris (If You’re Visiting)
If you’re planning a trip, choosing the right shoes is essential. The shoes Parisians wear are also your best guide to blending in and staying comfortable.
Best Shoes for Walking in Paris
Minimal leather sneakers, well-broken-in loafers, and comfortable ballet flats are ideal. You’ll walk more than you expect, so choose supportive, flexible soles and avoid brand-new shoes.
Shoes for Paris in Summer
Leather sandals (flat or low heel), ballet flats, and lightweight sneakers work beautifully. Avoid flip-flops — they’re considered beachwear, not city wear.
Shoes for Paris in Winter
Waterproof or treated leather ankle boots are best, along with leather sneakers paired with thicker socks. Paris winters are damp, so grip and durability matter.
Shoes Parisians Rarely Wear
There are a few styles that stand out immediately as “tourist shoes” in Paris.
French women generally avoid heavy athletic running shoes for everyday wear, platform party heels during the day, and flip-flops outside of very casual summer settings.
It’s not about strict rules — just a preference for shoes that feel polished, understated, and city-appropriate.
Parisian Shoes FAQ
What shoes do French women wear daily?
Mostly ballet flats, loafers, ankle boots, and minimal sneakers in neutral colors.
Are sneakers OK in Paris?
Yes — as long as they’re simple, clean, and not overly sporty.
Can you wear heels in Paris?
Yes, but low, elegant heels are far more common than very high stilettos.
What are the best shoes for walking in Paris?
Leather sneakers, well-made loafers, and comfortable ballet flats are ideal for long days on foot.
Parisian style has never been about owning more — it’s about choosing well. And when it comes to shoes, French women prove that a small rotation of timeless, comfortable, beautifully made pairs is all you really need.
Whether you’re building a capsule wardrobe or figuring out the best shoes to wear in Paris, these six styles will carry you through nearly every season and situation — effortlessly.
