French Women Are Done With Sandals—These are the Shoe Trends They're Wearing Instead

I hate to say it but sandal season is slowly slipping away. With unpredictable weather and the increasing likelihood of a downpour, the risk of soggy feet just isn't worth it. So, like many of us, I'm being nudged towards practicality and leaving my beloved sandals tucked safely in the wardrobe—at least for now.

After living in them all summer long, the thought of styling anything but sandals feels slightly disorienting. In need of inspiration, I turned to the ever-reliable French style set to see how they're transitioning their footwear for these in-between days. As always, they delivered—offering chic, weather-appropriate alternatives that still manage to retain a breezy feel.

From elegant slip-ons to timeless classics, I've rounded up the three key shoe trends French women are genuinely wearing in place of sandals right now—just look at the below for further proof.

3 Shoes French Women Are Wearing Instead of Sandals Now

1. Espadrille Wedges

Style Notes: With their rope soles and fabric uppers, espadrille wedges capture the essence of summer while offering more coverage than your average sandal.

Style Notes: Whether worn with classic blue denim, floaty white skirts, or cotton dresses, espadrille wedges hit the sweet spot between casual and polished that French women always perfect.

Shop Espadrille Wedges:

ASOS

Tyra Closed Toe Wedges

Style with a white cotton dress or pair these with your favourite jeans.

Nobody's Child

Olive Castaner Bilina Espadrilles

This warm shade of khaki is so easy to slot into a capsule wardrobe.

Loeffler Randall

Pamela Mignon Metallic Leather Platform Wedge Sandals

These also come in half sizes so you can find your perfect fit.

2. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: No roundup of French footwear would be complete without ballet flats. The go-to shoe for effortless elegance, this versatile staple is perfect for navigating late-summer dressing.

Style Notes: Soft, comfortable and enduringly chic, they're easy to style with mini skirts and tailored shorts now, and just as good with full-length trousers or jeans as the weather continues to cool.