When a queen swaps her stilettos for reasonable low heels, fashionistas open their eyes wide. In Madrid, Letizia from Spain has been making appearances in low heels with retro charm since the spring, signaling a very confident shift towards more easy-to-wear summer shoes. It’s impossible not to see this as a signal for those who dream of elegant but truly wearable sandals.
This change of register is right on trend. The international Global Footwear Trends SS26 report sums up the season in one sentence: , explains the report published by ECI Group. In the same document, we also read that. Between vintage spirit and taste for visible craftsmanship, the sovereign’s favorite shoes suddenly tick all the boxes.
Letizia from Spain succumbs to babies Paula Sézane
Instead of sandals with dizzying heels, the queen now appears with Paula Sézane babies, patent leather sling-back babies with low heels. On May 9, in the streets of Madrid, she wore this model with black straight pants revealing the ankle and a black and white gingham trench, a very French graphic play which perfectly highlights her almost flat shoes.
Called Paula, these babies with a double strap on the top of the foot and a slingback-style rear strap combine two major trends of the moment. Their shiny patent leather brings a dressy touch to even the most sober outfits. Priced around $155, they come in classic black, vibrant red or delicate nude, all shades that are easy to integrate into a summer wardrobe.
Why Paula Sézane babies make perfect summer sandals
Technically, the Paula are not sandals, but their block heel of around 5 cm and their open back make them closer to summer sandals while remaining very stable. The baby shape, with rounded toe and double strap, holds the foot well on the sole, making them suitable for busy days as well as Letizia’s official trips from Spain.
The material also plays a role in comfort. The patent goatskin leather fits quickly on the foot, the smooth vegetable leather lining limits friction and the rubber sole ensures good grip. Made in a Portuguese workshop, in European production supervised by a French house certified B Corp, these shoes are positioned as a sustainable purchase rather than a simple seasonal fad.
How to wear Paula Sézane babies all summer like Letizia
The queen likes to pair them with straight pants that reveal the ankle, which immediately lightens the silhouette. You can take this idea with 7/8 raw jeans, a crisp white shirt and black Paula shoes, or choose a satin midi skirt and an oversized shirt for a more feminine look. For a 100% Frenchie look, a loose beige suit and patent leather Mary Janes make up a chic and comfortable uniform.
These low heels also work very well in the city as an alternative to flat sandals. Three ideas to keep in mind:
- For the office: fluid linen pants, sober top, black or nude Paula.
- For the weekend: denim shorts, light shirt, Paula reds which become a statement piece.
- For an evening: satin midi dress, Paula patent leather which allows you to dance without suffering.
Are the Paula Sézane babies worn by Letizia from Spain really comfortable?
The block heel around 5 cm, the baby shape closed by a double strap and the slingback back offer good stability. The soft leather and rubber sole make it a comfortable option for long walks, much more than a classic stiletto.
What is the price of Paula Sézane babies and where to buy them?
Paula babies are priced around $155 on the official Sézane website and in the brand’s boutiques. Some popular colors can sell out quickly, especially as summer approaches.
What colors of Paula Sézane babies to choose for summer?
Patent black remains the safe bet, easy with everything. Nude visually lengthens the leg and matches a light wardrobe. Red works well if your outfits are mostly neutral and you’re looking for a unique pop of color.
Sources
- Grazia
“Even Letizia Spain adopted super comfortable French brand sandals to invest in this summer 2026”
- Beauty Test
“I took them out of the closet, this brand of southern sandals, long considered old-fashioned, is back in force this summer”
