I Live in Paris and These Are the 3 Summer 2024 Shoe Trends

After enduring the rainiest spring Paris has seen since 1886, we can finally see the sunlight at the end of this (soggy) tunnel—and Parisians couldn’t be more excited for summer temperatures. Since these past few months of drizzles have allowed for only closed-toe shoes and water-repellent, springtime stompers, French girls have been quick to slip on their new summer footwear this warm, sunny week. 

Clunky shoes for sloshing around the city have officially been banished to the backs of closets. Now, the front row’s reserved for ladylike steppers for flouncing down the street. Think: sweet Mary Jane flats, dainty, Carrie Bradshaw-like heels, and trendy woven shoes. Below, shop the summer shoe trends all Parisians are wearing right now:

Sweet Mary Jane Flats

When sneakers inevitably lose their appeal in high temps, Mary Janes can make a good replacement. With many styles offering almost as much comfort and support as your Adidas Gazelles, a pair of flat Mary Janes can be your go-to shoe for trotting around the city. If comfort is your priority, go for Sam Edelman’s leather Mary Janes, which are “supportive, well cushioned, and surprisingly light,” per shoppers  or these classic satin flats from Amazon, which offer padded, anti-fatigue soles for extra comfort. For a pair that’s a little more elegant, the new Tory Burch Cap Toe Mary Jane Flat make a good choice, and if you’re leaning more towards trendier pieces, you’re sure to love Mango’s ballerinas with a chunky buckle or Free People’s daisy-studded mesh ones.

Dainty Kitten Heel Sandals

Perhaps it’s because Sex and the City finally made its way to Netflix, but French girls aren’t shying away from dainty heels that look like ones Carrie Bradshaw would wear. These shoes have a more sensible heel that makes it easier to trek through the city, plus a delicate silhouette that elevates any outfit. In these shoes, you, like Carrie, can walk 48 blocks—but they won’t cost you $400. For example: Try Steve Madden’s kitten heel flip flops in classic black, Mango’s tangerine ones for a louder hue, or a pair of metallic strappy heels from Amazon. Looking for sturdier options? Reach for Jeffrey Campbell’s satin heels with an itty bitty heel, or Reformation’s fashion forward, barely-there option.

Trendy Woven Shoes

Woven shoes are a bit of a French girl staple—probably because they pair well with cropped jeans, mini tees, and a basket for a handbag (did I conjure an image of Jane Birkin for you?). For leather options, try Jeffrey Campbell’s cognac mules or Madewell’s coffee-colored ballet flats, both of which are sleek enough to wear to the office. If you’d like a lighter, more casual pick, go for Steve Madden’s flat slides or for a super comfy option,Sam Edelman’s Rowan sandals, both made for lake and beachside living. And in case you prefer a little height to your shoes, Cushionare’s braided heels make a fun, more formal pair for you to wear to this season’s backyard soirées.