Sorry for them, but sandals no longer rule the streets of Paris. Between the endless appointments, the slippery pavements and the pedicures that we put off, many prominent French girls have put their bare feet in the closet. The toes still breathe, but out of sight. And there, the summer wardrobe changes everything.
On the spring-summer 2026 catwalks, Vogue France has already spotted boat shoes, chic espadrilles or couture flip-flops that steal the show from minimalist sandals. In real life, especially in Paris, it is mainly very classic models revisited which stand out as alternatives to sandals. Not necessarily the ones you think of first.
Why prominent French girls are letting go (a little) of their sandals
The simplest reason is often self-confidence. Grazia recalls that a study relayed by ELLE shows that, a figure which explains the success of closed but light summer shoes. Add to that the office dress codes that ban exposed toes, the air conditioning on full blast, the crowded subway… All of this makes you want shoes with more coverage but still summery.
There is also a real desire for a different style. Very minimalist flat sandals have been seen everywhere. The houses cited by Vogue France, from Jacquemus to Céline, are now focusing on open moccasins, heeled espadrilles and polished boat shoes. Parisiennes follow, but in a streetstyle version: they take these classics and adapt them with raw jeans, midi skirts or linen shorts.
Classic shoes that replace sandals on Parisiennes
When it comes to flats, three trends are seen everywhere. Mesh flats, these fishnet ballerinas, sometimes red, let air circulate while hiding the toes. The sporty ballerinas mix a sneaker silhouette and ballerina details, a true French girl hybrid. Soft-girl sneakers, pastel sneakers with fine and sometimes gathered lines, allow you to stay in sneakers but with a lighter look than a massive dad shoe.
For those who want something more dressy, ruched loafers and open moccasins (mules type inspired by the Celine, Tod’s or Calvin Klein fashion shows) frankly replace sandals in the office or in the restaurant. Pointed slingbacks cover the forefoot while revealing the heel, perfect with straight jeans or a wrap dress. Added to this are fisherman sandals with a round toe, very closed at the front, and closed-toe wedges which take over from espadrilles for those who like to gain a few centimeters without showing their toes.
How to choose your sandal alternatives according to your style
Everything starts from what we want to hide… or not. If you don’t like your toes or haven’t had time to do your pedicure, mesh flats, gathered moccasins (open or closed) and pointed slingbacks secure the front of the foot without weighing down the silhouette. Braided or openwork shoes, much highlighted by Grazia, play the same role in leather version.
For long walks in the city, French girls opt for soft-girl sneakers, sporty ballerinas or well-cushioned fisherman sandals. At the office, open loafers, ruched loafers, closed-toe wedges or elegant espadrilles tick the chic box without visible toes. Many keep a neutral pair that goes with everything, then give themselves a very French girl fashion touch with a red mesh ballerina or a pastel sneaker.
What summer shoes to wear when you don’t like your toes?
The best options remain mesh flats, moccasins (open or closed) and pointed slingbacks. They cover the front of the foot while remaining light and very Parisian.
Are open moccasins suitable for high heat?
Yes, especially in soft leather or openwork versions. The uncovered heel lets air circulate, while offering a dressier look than a classic sandal.
How to wear mesh flats French girl style?
Parisians often pair them with raw 7/8 jeans and a simple white t-shirt, or with a flowing midi dress. A red or metallic pair is enough to complete the look.
