4 Throw-On Flat Shoes Stylish French Women Are Wearing Instead of Heels

French women have long been revered for their effortlessly chic style, and when it comes to footwear, their choices are no exception. Flat shoes have become a staple in the wardrobes of many French women, even more so than high heels, embodying a sense of timeless elegance and practicality.

French women often opt for flats that offer comfort, allowing them to navigate the charming streets of Paris (and beyond) with ease. This emphasis on comfort doesn't come at the expense of style, as they favour flats that seamlessly transition from day until night. Another pattern I’ve noticed is the sheer versatility of the flat-shoe trends French women prioritise—they effortlessly complement various outfits, making them malleable to a multitude of aesthetics.

Scroll on to see the flat-shoe trends French women love to wear and are practically living in as we head into the new season.

1. LOAFERS

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(Image credit: @leasy_inparis)

Style Notes: Loafers are selected by dressers from around the world but, especially the French, for their polished yet comfortable design. Their sheer wearability makes them the first thing they grab for casual strolls, brunch dates and low-key dinners out. 

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2. FLAT MULES

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

Style Notes: Flat backless mules offer a breezy, chic allure that complements the equally effortless French-girl wardrobe. Their slip-on ease and understated charm make them the perfect shoe style for updating more casual ensembles; jeans, leggings, dresses, you name it! 

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3. MARY JANE FLATS

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(Image credit: @frannfyne)

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4. BALLET FLATS

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(Image credit: @annelauremais)

Style Notes: Classic ballet flats are a quintessential favourite among French fashion types. They present a certain Parisian charm and pair seamlessly with everything from tailored trousers to flirty dresses and, yes, miniskirts. 

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Next Up: I'm an Editor—9 New-In Buys I Just Added to My Autumn Wish List

Maxine Eggenberger
Deputy Editor

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over thirteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content specifically for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their SEO strategy and keyword planning, works closely with the beauty team on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media, including her own Who What Wear UK TikTok franchise, French Style Fridays. Previously, Maxine appeared on ITV's This Morning in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o.

Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship at Look magazine, she was offered a position on the brand's fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. Her passion and natural talent for writing and styling meant she swiftly rose through the ranks to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion and beauty writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief, overseeing both print and digital, before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others.

Maxine is based remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh where she spends her downtime renovating her house, walking her dogs, hosting friends and trying to master the art of making Old Fashioned cocktails.