French Women Know That These 5 Sandal Styles Will Never Look Dated
Shop their summertime go-tos.
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 tend to gravitate toward, and all have that understated, elegant quality that permeates through a Parisian's wardrobe.
Now that it's officially sandal season, chances are that you're 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. So, 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.
Shop Minimalist Mules
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.
Shop Leather Thong Sandals
Criss-Cross 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 criss-cross straps. The '90s-inspired sandal style may seem a bit specific, but trust me—I often spot them on the feet of French women.
Shop Criss-Cross Kitten Heels
D'Orsay Sandals
D'Orsay sandals are classified as a two-piece sandal with a somewhat covered toe and a heel that's either fully covered or with a slingback strap. They're one of those shoes that just look very European without being able to put a finger on why. French women often swap ballet flats for them in the summer, as they have a similar look.
Shop D'Orsay Sandals
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.
Shop Strappy Heels
