Instead of my usual post about the shoe styles French women wear in summer, I thought it would be more interesting to share a personal touch this time. I’m excited to present the shoes that I have purchased or plan to buy for this summer. Do let me know in the comments if you prefer this personal approach or a broader look at trends in France and Paris :).
In today’s post, I’m sharing my selection of six pairs of shoes that I absolutely love and will be wearing all summer long. There’s something for everyone: from city-appropriate sandals to on-trend espadrilles, très chic and trendy ballet flats, and stunning suede loafers and sandals. These choices are chic and timeless, perfect for the entire season and many more summers to come. Continue reading to discover and shop my carefully curated edit of shoe styles that, in my opinion, truly embody French chic this summer.
This post is not sponsored. I only share what I truly love. Some links are affiliate, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Merci!
P.S. I know ankle boots aren’t typically considered summer footwear, but could mesh ankle boots be an exception? For a special occasion where you want chic closed shoes, I absolutely love Chanel’s mesh ankle boots, like the ones the model is wearing in the feature photo of this post. I found a few pairs on Vestiaire Collective: here in black and leather and here in black and white. You’re welcome ;)!

- Espadrilles are one of my favorite shoes to wear in summer. This season, I purchased the Castañer Chiara 80 canvas wedge espadrilles in blush, which I wore to a wedding in Sevilla last month. They are super chic! I recommend opting for a size above your usual for better comfort. I also suggest a pair of flats like the Gea canvas espadrilles. While in Spain, I bought these beautiful Goya espadrilles, which are incredibly comfortable and very well-made. I love Castañer!
- As I mentioned in my previous post about the essentials in my French summer wardrobe, I have a thing for mesh ballet flats this season, especially the Magda Butrym embroidered mesh ballet flats, which I absolutely love! These are on my shopping list, and unfortunately, they are selling super fast. Currently, they are on sale at 25% off on SSENSE, or you can purchase them on Luisaviaroma. They are nearly sold out on the official brand website and on Net-a-Porter.
- The Chloé Rebecca leather sandals have been on my wishlist since last year! I absolutely love them and believe they are perfect for both the office and the city. You can pair them with wide-leg linen pants, bermuda shorts, or ecru denim. If your budget allows, I highly recommend them. If not, don’t worry—I found another great alternative just below!
- I absolutely love the A-EMERY Jalen sandals, which I discovered last year and plan to purchase this summer. They are a great option for city wear and a more affordable alternative to the Chloé Rebecca sandals. This summer, consider opting for a pair in nutmeg suede, or check out the gorgeous merlot pair, which will look stunning paired with khaki, beige, navy blue, or black bottoms.
- If you’re a faithful reader of Leonce Chenal, you already know about my love for loafers. I’ve always wanted a summer alternative to my favorite Tod’s Gemma Pensante loafers in a lighter fabric like suede. After a long search, I finally found the perfect pair: Scarosso’s Ludovica Electric Blue Suede Loafers! These stunning loafers in electric blue will add a vibrant touch to my predominantly neutral summer wardrobe.
- I purchased these beautiful Ancient Greek Sandals Victory of Samotrace sandals last year and wore them all summer on vacation. I love Greek-style sandals, which are flat and feature strappy heels. They pair very well with any dress and pants.
Et voilà! I hope you enjoyed this selection. I’d love to hear about your favorite summer shoes or any recommendations you have, so feel free to share in the comments below! Merci.