With autumn just around the corner, emotions fluctuate between sadness over summer’s imminent departure and mounting excitement for cold-weather dressing. Sunny days might soon be behind us, but the cloud of knitwear on the horizon certainly softens the blow (literally and figuratively).
Shoes sit right up there with woolly jumpers and oversized outerwear on the list of exciting early autumn purchases. From ankle boots to lug-sole loafers, there are plenty of cool and classic footwear options for the transitional months—ensuring you don’t have to go straight from sandals to ski boots. Step into September in dainty ballet flats or a subtle Western silhouette; whether you’ve started reaching for your blazers or are having a hard time letting go of pretty floral dresses, there’s a shoe out there to carry you through the awkward seasonal shift.
Wondering where to start? As always, we suggest consulting the Parisian masters. We’ll never stop waxing lyrical about the timeless allure of French fashion and the mastery of its pioneering designers, who repeatedly seem to hit the sweet spot between elegance and effortlessness. From high-end names like Chloé and Dior to fast-rising brands such as Sézane and Jonak, there’s a common thread among them that’s difficult to define but easy to envy. Beyond the quintessential labels, it feels like all femmes Françaises have a knack for filtering through the stream of newness that arrives each season and pinpointing the items worth investing in. If you want to dress like those Gallic gurus you follow Instagram, this is the roundup for you. Scroll on to discover the French-girl autumn shoes you need, and when you’re done, start styling your ensembles with help from our favourite Parisian-inspired outfits.
Style Notes: Early autumn allows for experimental layering. Take note from Anne-Laure’s juxtaposition of loose knitwear with short shorts and dainty Mary Janes. Pop on a pair of tights if you’re feeling the chill.
A classic Mary Jane investment.
The perfect cherry shade.
These would look great with spotted tights on cooler days.
Opt for flats if you spend a lot of time on your feet.
Style Notes: It doesn’t get any classier than this look from Paris-based Sylvie Mus. Longline jacket? Check. Black knee-highs? Check. Effortless attitude from top to toe? Check.
Boots you’ll hold on to for years to come.
Reformation doesn’t just make pretty dresses.
I adore the skinny heel on this & Other Stories pair.
French girls are often spotted in suede.
Style Notes: If I could capture French style using just one outfit, this would be it. The blazer, blue jeans and ballet flats combination has been expertly executed by Paris resident Salomé Mory.
These are the ultimate slip-on-and-go shoes.
This Arket pair comes in four cool shades and textures.
Soften things up with suede.
So nostalgic.
Style Notes: Understated and ultra comfy, Julie’s beach getup is exactly the kind of low-key ensemble I lean towards. Those New Balance trainers would work with relaxed tailoring for smarter occasions.
Comfort in footwear form.
The autumnal hues work all year round.
Wear with light-wash denim and a vest top for ’90s appeal.
Simple, sustainable and set to be your new go-to.
Style Notes: The Wild West comes to France with Leia’s elevated on-the-go look. Who says navy and black can’t go together?
This silhouette feels familiar yet fresh.
I can imagine styling a boho look around these boots.
I’m into this two-tone colourway.
Isabel Marant’s cowboy boots will always reign supreme.
Style Notes: If Annie Hall walked the streets today, I bet her style would look something like this. Switch in black loafers to make this outfit from Franny Fyne even more streamlined.
The buckle detail feels very French.
Such gorgeous chain detailing.
Burgundy is just as sleek as black.
Arket’s leather footwear never disappoints.
Style Notes: Tamara Mory is my go-to for feminine fashion inspo with a Gallic spin, and this outfit is no exception. The subtly matching accessories and complimentary colour palette prove it’s all in the details.
Contrast these delicate shoes with wide-leg trousers.
Try out the two-tone trend with this affordable pair from Marks & Spencer.
So elegant.
The trend in boot form, courtesy of Toteme. Up next, Here’s How French Girls Are Wearing the Anti-Skinny Jean Trend. This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
