As the season begins to shift, I can't help but dedicate some time to rethinking my wardrobe.
I like to take this moment to highlight the heroes that have earned their place year after year, whilst also gently setting aside those pieces that haven’t quite been pulling their weight. Once I’ve mapped out where the gaps lie, the hunt for new-season inspiration begins, and there’s no source I return to more than French women.
Across my feed, I’ve noticed a handful of chic, versatile and elevated footwear choices making repeat appearances in Paris and beyond right now. Think classics reimagined with modern details, timeless shoes that promise longevity and subtle twists that will ensure your autumn outfits always look fresh.
Below, I’ve rounded up the six autumn shoe trends that French women are already wearing, and that I predict will soon be everywhere.
6 French-Girl Autumn Shoe Trends Taking Off Right Now
1. Knee-High, Pointed-Toe Boots
Style Notes: Early autumn always delivers some of the most exciting styling opportunities of the year. With temperatures hovering in that perfect in-between, layering becomes both practical and playful, and this is when I like to get the most wear out of knee-high, pointed-toe boots. Paired with knee-skimming skirts, they feel polished and easy. Aptly warm yet undeniably chic, this is the boot trend already dominating French capsule wardrobes and is guaranteed to become a mainstay in the coming months.
Shop Knee-High, Pointed-Toe Boots:
Honestly, these look more expensive than they actually are.
Style with a knee-length skirt or wear these under bootleg jeans.
In my opinion, every great autumn wardrobe starts with a pair of knee-high boots.
2. Glossy Leather Loafers
Style Notes: Few shoes feel as quintessentially autumnal as loafers, and this season, French women are gravitating towards glossy leather finishes. Patent loafers lend a subtle sheen that instantly elevates any outfit, whether they’re grounding casual denim or sharpening up wide-leg trousers.
Shop Glossy Leather Loafers:
Style these with fresh white socks to give your look a preppy finish.
I'm loving this slim-line silhouette for autumn 2025.
These also come in four other shades.
3. Black Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Ballet flats never really leave a French woman's wardrobe, but autumn gives them a renewed crop of styling options. Their closed-toe silhouette makes them a natural go-to when the chill sets in, and looking effortlessly chic with denim, midi skirts or tailored trousers, they’re the perennial favourite that French women lean on season after season.
Shop Black Ballet Flats:
These also come in beige, burgundy and brown.
Style with denim or pair with a swishy skirt.
Be quick! These are on their way to selling out.
4. Suede Boat Shoes
Style Notes: Boat shoes have been bubbling up for a few seasons now, but this autumn, suede variations are having a moment. With texture playing such a key role in autumn/winter 2025’s trends, suede brings a softer, cosier edge to the preppy silhouette.
Shoe Suede Boat Shoes:
These also come in 11 other shades!
Miu Miu's suede boat shoes are a fashion-person favourite.
Style these jeans or pair with slouchy linen trousers before it gets too cold.
5. Brown Boots
Style Notes: Chocolate brown is back as the shade of this autumn, and boots are the chicest way to wear it. If black feels too stark for autumn, brown boots offer a warmer, more luxurious alternative that still works with everything in your wardrobe.
Shop Brown Boots:
The square-toe design gives these a sleek, directional look.
Add a subtle wash of colour to your autumn rotation.
I can't see these staying in stock for long.
6. Kitten-Heel Slingbacks
Style Notes: Adding just the right amount of lift without sacrificing comfort, slingback kitten heels are the perfect shoe for dinners, workdays or evenings out. Paired with tailored jeans or pencil skirts, they hit the exact note of poise and ease that defines French style.
Shop Kitten-Heel Slingbacks:
Wear these with tights and a pencil skirt, or dress them down with jeans.
Whilst I love these for autumn, kitten-heel slingbacks are a wardrobe staple you can come back to year-round.
These also come in a glistening silver shade.
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