Even if you barely follow French style, you probably at least know that French women love wearing dresses in the summer. (Learn more about what dress trends they're wearing this summer here.) And while it used to be the case that they'd typically pair them with espadrilles, 2024 has proved that times have changed.
I've seen several examples of French women wearing dresses since the weather warmed up, and the shoe trends I've spotted them wearing on repeat are vastly different. It shows that anything goes when it comes to what shoes you wear with dresses, and I love that for us.
Below, you'll see nine of the main summer shoe trends French fashion girls are wearing with dresses, and if it leaves you inspired, I've shopped incredibly chic versions of each trend.
1. Ankle-Wrap Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Ballet flats have been a thing for a minute, but I've seen several examples of French girls wearing ankle-wrap iterations with dresses lately. It's a fresh variation on a very saturated trend.
Shop Ankle-Wrap Ballet Flats:
These come in 3 different colours.
So pretty!
You can wear these well into autumn.
2. Western Boots
Style Notes: It may not be a typical summer shoe trend, but Western boots—especially with minidresses—are trending this summer, and French girls are embracing the fun look.
Shop Western Boots:
I love the embroidery on this pair.
These are so sleek.
A colour that will go with everything in your summer wardrobe.
3. Kitten-Heel Sandals
Style Notes: If you want to look instantly sophisticated and timeless, do as the French do and pair a dress with sleek kitten heels.
Shop Kitten-Heel Sandals:
A classic shoe that will pair well with all of your dresses.
So elegant.
Pale yellow is back again this season as a trending colour.
4. Sneakers
Style Notes: Sneakers with dresses is a defining look of the 2020s, and it's still going strong in Paris. French girls are especially into wearing retro sneakers like Adidas Sambas, and Asics, and Salomons.
Shop Sneakers:
This fashion-person favourite is constantly selling out, so act fast!
Asics is known for its comfy footwear.
A classic white trainer will never go out of style.
5. Fisherman Sandals
Style Notes: Because fisherman sandals are one of the biggest sandal trends of the year, it's not surprising that French women have embraced wearing them with dresses, especially for daytime.
Shop Fisherman Sandals:
A sandal you won't regret investing in.
M&S have some of the comfiest sandals on the high street.
Don't these look way more expensive?
6. Fancy Flip-Flops
Style Notes: Fancy flip-flops were once polarizing, but now they're acceptable. (If French women are wearing them with dresses, there's no denying it.)
Shop Fancy Flip-Flops:
A pop of red to wear with your white maxi dresses.
These are the epitome of quiet luxury.
I love a flared heel.
7. Mary Janes
Style Notes: Sweet Mary Janes and dresses go hand-in-hand, and this combo perfectly suits the classic French aesthetic. You'll get bonus points for adding white socks.
Shop Mary Janes:
A black mary jane is a versatile choice that will go with all of your dresses.
Metallics are not just for winter.
This mesh pair will immediately elevate any outfit.
8. Ultra-Minimal Sandals
Style Notes: Minimal sandals are great because they go with any dress style under the sun. It's a universally beloved style that makes the dress the focal point of your look.
Shop Ultra-Minimal Sandals:
These could easily be mistaken for designer.
Reformation has some great sandal options this summer.
Khaite is known for its minimalist designs.
9. Wedges
Style Notes: Last but not least, wedges are an easy way to make your dresses look fresh and forward this summer. French girls are especially gravitating toward sleek, non-bulky styles.
Shop Wedges:
Espadrilles are a forever summer staple.
These also come in black or white.
A neutral tone to go with everything.
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