As we head into spring and the weather gets warmer, even though I’m an admitted denim lover, I don’t want to fall into the habit of resorting to jeans for every outfit. I’ve recently developed a new love for leggings and have finally accepted that they don’t just need to be reserved for my Pilates class. How did this ifinay arise? Well, it all depends on the French.
If there’s one thing French women do exceptionally well, it’s make even the simplest outfit look polished and intentional. When it comes to styling French women’s leggings, a big part of the outfit comes down to shoes. Think classic ballet flats and pared-back loafers, or knee-high boots and sandals.
Was there a conspiracy? Keep scrolling to discover five shoe trends that French women wear with leggings, then shop the best styles for each trend.
Trends of shoes worn with leggings by French women:
1. Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Ballet flats are a must-have in any capsule wardrobe, so it’s no surprise to me that Franny paired them with leggings. Whether it’s the classic leather style, or you opt for a mesh option instead, they’re such a versatile shoe that can really be worn with anything.
Shop what’s trending:
Alohas
Rosalind Black Leather Ballet Flats
I have these in brown and I’m trying to convince myself that I don’t need every other color too.
These look far more expensive than the high-street pair.
le monde beryl
Stella Zebra-Print Calf Hair Mary Jane Ballet Flats
A pair of Le Monde Beryl ballet flats are at the top of my wish list.
dear francis
bat mesh, cobalt
Cobalt blue is a big trend for spring.
just a little
leather ballet flats with applique
The gold appliqué is such a sleek detail.
2. Knee-high boots
Shop what’s trending:
massimo datti
leather riding boots
A simple black riding boot is such a versatile option.
totem
Croco-Embossed Wide Shaft Boots Dark Brown
Chocolate brown gives a smoother finish than black.
The subtle gold hardware detailing is such a charming touch.
A pointed kitten heel boot is perfect for an elevated look.
AEYDE
Medea Suede Knee Boots
These Ayde boots are a true transitional option.
3. Stray
Style Notes: I developed a new obsession with loafers when I bought my first pair last year, and I’ve been wearing them ever since, but I never thought about pairing them with leggings. I love how Anne-Laure has worn hers with a chunky sock and a pared-back style loafer and kept the rest of her look more simple to ensure the loafer doesn’t look too formal for the leggings.
Shop what’s trending:
ysl
Le Loafer Spl in shiny leather
These Saint Laurent loafers are at the top of my wish list.
and other stories
penny loafers
Thanks to this pair, I have also been inspired to style my loafers with skirts.
Tory Burch
leather penny loafers
The simplicity of these Tory Burch pair is so sleek.
jimmy choo
alice loafer f
Warm weather and rainy fall is the green light to bring back suede loafers.
A faux crocodile adds instant texture to any outfit.
4. Trainer
Shop what’s trending:
selfridges
MR530 Logo-Embossed Leather and Mesh Low-Top Trainers
For those who want a chunky trainer and leggings look.
whistle
Soft Suede Unlimited Sneaker
Adidas Originals
SL 72 OG trainers in brown and cream with stitching detail
Trying to convince myself I have enough trainers and No This pair is needed.
MS
leather trainer
A great high-street option.
Loewe
Ballet Runner 2.0 Logo-Applied Leather, Shell and Suede Sneakers
An attractive monochrome option.
5. Strappy Sandals
Shop what’s trending:
jill sander
leather slingback sandals
You can always count on Jil Sander for dreamy minimalist style.
The chocolate brown trend isn’t going anywhere.
massimo datti
Strappy Mid-Heel Sandal
A black strappy sandal is a capsule wardrobe essential.
Improvement
Serenity Bare Sandals
I love adding a pop of red to a neutral outfit.
Mango
strappy heel sandals
An attractive high-street option.
