If you were wondering if French women wear sneakers—and even on the streets of Paris—the answer is yes, definitely! Sneakers or trainers are an essential shoe style that is found in every French woman’s closet. If you went to Paris, you might have seen that uncomfortable high heels are not very “French.” Hardly any French woman decides to choose high heels for the whole day. Instead, in Paris, it’s far more common to see women wearing comfortable flat shoes such as ballet flats, loafers, and sneakers.
Indeed, since Paris is a city where the locals walk everywhere, sneakers are probably the most stylish and comfortable shoes to wear every day. It’s impossible not to see several pairs of white sneakers topping off chic outfits in the streets of Paris. And since sneakers no longer carry the casual, lazy-day stigma they did in the past, now, a simple pair of white sneakers can look stylish wherever you look.
Which sneaker style to look for?
To complement dress-down pants and make their outfits look smarter, French women opt for sneakers that make their feet look thin, small, and classy. On the contrary, French women avoid any type of sneakers that are too wide, cushy, or comfy-looking, such as chunky “dad” sneakers, running shoes, or multi-color sneakers. As for the color, the French prefer to opt for a white, light beige, or light gray pair of sneakers, as anything that is too colorful is considered garish. Basically, they wear discreet-looking and versatile sneakers that can go with any type of outfit. Keep scrolling below to see the chicest pair of sneakers to add to your wardrobe this season.
Independent and unsponsored, this article is written with curiosity and discernment. Some links are affiliate, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase, always at no cost to you.
The Chicest Sneakers to Shop Right Now
How French Women Style Their Favorite Sneakers
One of my French style tips is to mix dressed-up pieces like a trench coat or a blazer with more casual items like a pair of white sneakers. It’s the perfect balance to make your outfit look “chic-décontracté” (smart casual). Opt for minimal plain white sneakers that make your feet look thin, small, and classy. Keep scrolling below to see the five ways French women dress comfortably and elegantly by combining elegant outfits with casual shoes like sneakers.
1. With a Trench Coat

2. With a Black Suit

3. With Grey Dress Pants

4. With White Pants

5. With a Camel Wool Coat

Et voilà! I hope this guide will help you find the perfect pair of sneakers! Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions.