French Women Know That These 5 Sandal Styles Will Never Look Dated

Shop their summertime go-tos.

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French influencers wearing sandals.
(Image credit: @sylviemus_; @vikilefevre)
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One of the signature characteristics of the often discussed and emulated French-girl style is classic footwear. While shoes certainly aren't an afterthought for French women, they tend to stick to their tried-and-true favorites year after year—especially when it comes to summer sandals. There are a handful of specific sandal styles that they gravitate toward, and they all have that understated, elegant quality that permeates through a Parisian's wardrobe.

Now that it's officially sandal season, you're likely shopping for a new pair or two, and you'd be wise to look to the French to narrow down the options. They have great taste, and they're picky—a winning combination, if you ask me. Accordingly, I've pinpointed five specific styles that'll complement a wide variety of spring and summer outfits and never look dated. If that's your goal when shopping for new sandals, keep scrolling to see examples of the five styles every well-dressed French woman owns and shop excellent options for each.

Minimalist Mules

Subtle sandals that won't compete with your outfit but still look chic and stylish are a French wardrobe essential, and minimalist mules fit the bill in every way.

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French influencer wearing sandals.

(Image credit: @vikilefevre)

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Leather Thong Sandals

While thong sandals haven't always been a French-girl staple, they've certainly become one in recent years, and I believe the style is sticking around for awhile. Instead of ultra-casual flip-flops, they gravitate toward elevated leather ones.

French influencer wearing sandals.

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

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Crisscross Kitten Heels

When French women want to dress their outfits up a bit without appearing like they're trying too hard, they opt for kitten heels with crisscross straps. The '90s-inspired sandal style may seem a bit specific, but trust me—I often spot it on the feet of French women.

French influencer wearing sandals.

(Image credit: @tamaramory)

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D'Orsay Sandals

D'orsay sandals are classified as two-piece sandals with a somewhat covered toe and a heel that's either fully covered or has a slingback strap. They're shoes that just look very European, and I can't put a finger on why. French women often swap ballet flats for them in the summer, as they have a similar look.

French influencer wearing sandals.

(Image credit: @erinoffduty)

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Strappy Heels

Strappy heels are a mainstay in a French woman's shoe collection, and I have a feeling most own both dressy and casual versions of the style. They add a trend-forward element to an outfit without actually being trendy.

French influencer wearing sandals.

(Image credit: @sabinasocol)

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Allyson Payer
Allyson Payer
Senior Editor

Allyson is a senior editor for Who What Wear. She joined the company in 2014 as co-founder Katherine Power's executive assistant and over the years has written hundreds of stories for Who What Wear. Prior to her career in fashion, Allyson worked in the entertainment industry at companies such as Sony Pictures Television. Allyson is now based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She holds a BFA in theater arts. Her path to fashion may not have been linear, but based on the number of fashion magazines she collected as a child and young adult, it was meant to be.