French style is all about timeless pieces that last – especially shoes. The French know that the right pair of shoes can make all the difference to completing a look but more often than not, French women don’t have a giant shoe collection or buy into trends, and instead opt for a minimalist capsule of versatile, quality, and comfortable pieces (especially, Parisien women whose primary mode of transport is walking the streets of the city’s arrondissements).

Fortunately our latest designer, aeyde (although actually German), has released a collection of shoes that check all the French style boxes. Marrying modernity with exceptional quality and sustainability with accessible luxury, aeyde was created after Creative Director Luisa Dames struggled to find high-end footwear that was both kind on the earth and on the eye. Each shoe is crafted by Italian artisans in timeless designs including mules, boots, and sandals to ensure these shoes will be a staple in your wardrobe season on season.

We’ve rounded up five essential shoes that you’ll wear on repeat and styled it with a look that is “tres chic” as the French say. So whether you’re looking to dip your toe into French Style or update your entire shoe collection with pieces that will support you for years to come – check out our list that works for women of all ages — French, Australian or from wherever you hail from.

 

 

The Ballet Flat

Only the French could move denim cut-off shorts from the casual dressing department to elegant and elevated. If you ever thought your shorts were for trips to the beach or the shops – guess again. The key? A ballet flat! Ultra feminine it adding a suede ballet flat along with a button up to your favourite cut-off will transform your look and make you feel like an off-duty Parisian model. Pair with a pair of classic sunglasses and a tailored blazer for some extra sophistication.

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The Loafer

French women love loafers; they're endlessly comfortable and their closed in toe makes them great for transitional weather. Unlike the ballet flat, the loafer is more of a masculine shoe that adds a polished vibe to any outfit. We love adding some street style to our look by choosing a patent black loafer and black straight leg jean and pairing it with the quintessential Breton striped or long tee in dark navy. For some extra Frenchy-ness add a simple gold pendant necklace and red lip.

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The Heeled Mule

The mule is not only elegant it comes with every woman’s best friend – a block heel. French women never compromise poise and feeling confident for looking “sexy” but struggling to walk in sky high stilettos. This heeled mule gives you the best of both worlds with some medium height but flat sandal comfort. In terms of styling, the slip–and–mules combo made its way into French It Girls outfit rotation a few years ago, and we predict that this outfit formula will continue to stand the test of time. It hits that perfect bullseye of feminine, practical, and easy to wear. Slip skirts and dresses also come in endless combinations of prints and colours and you can dress them up/down with band tees, silk camis, or even play with volume and add oversized trenches, chunky knits or jackets.

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The Slip On Sandal

Loved by women all over the world for their ability to be slipped on and off with ease, these are an elegant alternative to flip flops or chunky platform slides. To give your slip-on sandals some extra French Girl style – think tonally. Pair them with feminine sundresses in white linen or pastel prints and a textured bag. We love these slides by aeyde that are made from 100% Italian leather and feel as buttery as a boulangerie croissant.



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Et voila! If any of these have stolen your heart – shop our French Style shoe edit below! Need help with creating a new capsule collection of other timeless classics? Our expert stylists are always on hand to help you find the perfect looks that you love.


 

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