Apologies, Flats—These Unfashionable Heels Have Become Every French Woman’s Subtle Choice for an Evening Out in Paris.

Apologies, Flats—These Unfashionable Heels Have Become Every French Woman’s Subtle Choice for an Evening Out in Paris.

      We often discuss French women and their ballet flats, but the shoes they wear for nights out don't receive as much attention. Although they may lack the charming rounded toe and top bow, they are just as timeless as any pair of ballet flats and are perfect for those moments when you need something a bit more formal. I'm referring to black heels—specifically, those with a sophisticated pointed toe and slender stiletto heel—and every French woman has a pair she relies on for parties, events, dinners, and more in Paris and beyond.

      Take, for example, French American model Camille Rowe’s appearance at the Bal d'Été at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, a black-tie gala hosted by Sofia Coppola during Haute Couture Week. Rowe, who has been a source of French-girl fashion inspiration for years, wore a champagne-colored long-sleeve gown crafted from sheer silk organza adorned with beaded embroidery. She accessorized with a petite silk handbag and a black scarf, completing her look with classic black patent-leather pumps.

      The beauty of this footwear style lies in its simplicity. Not everything has to be as polarizing as jelly shoes or PVC wedges. You can—and should!—own a stunning pair of reliable shoes. Clearly, French women savor them, and if you do too, keep reading. Below, you can shop the best black pumps of 2025.

      Shop classic black heels:

      - Jimmy Choo Romy 60 Leather Pump

      - Tony Bianco Baz Sling Back

      - Manolo Blahnik BB Pointed Toe Pump

      - MANGO Pointed-Toe Leather Heeled Shoes

      - Nordstrom Lexxy Pointed Toe Pump

      - Gianvito Rossi Gianvito Camoscio Pumps

      - PAIGE Wren Slingback Pump

      - Open Edit Demetra Pointed Toe Pump

      - Christian Louboutin Kate Pointed Toe Patent Leather Pump

Apologies, Flats—These Unfashionable Heels Have Become Every French Woman’s Subtle Choice for an Evening Out in Paris. Apologies, Flats—These Unfashionable Heels Have Become Every French Woman’s Subtle Choice for an Evening Out in Paris. Apologies, Flats—These Unfashionable Heels Have Become Every French Woman’s Subtle Choice for an Evening Out in Paris. Apologies, Flats—These Unfashionable Heels Have Become Every French Woman’s Subtle Choice for an Evening Out in Paris. Apologies, Flats—These Unfashionable Heels Have Become Every French Woman’s Subtle Choice for an Evening Out in Paris. Apologies, Flats—These Unfashionable Heels Have Become Every French Woman’s Subtle Choice for an Evening Out in Paris. Apologies, Flats—These Unfashionable Heels Have Become Every French Woman’s Subtle Choice for an Evening Out in Paris. Apologies, Flats—These Unfashionable Heels Have Become Every French Woman’s Subtle Choice for an Evening Out in Paris. Apologies, Flats—These Unfashionable Heels Have Become Every French Woman’s Subtle Choice for an Evening Out in Paris. Apologies, Flats—These Unfashionable Heels Have Become Every French Woman’s Subtle Choice for an Evening Out in Paris. Apologies, Flats—These Unfashionable Heels Have Become Every French Woman’s Subtle Choice for an Evening Out in Paris. Apologies, Flats—These Unfashionable Heels Have Become Every French Woman’s Subtle Choice for an Evening Out in Paris. Apologies, Flats—These Unfashionable Heels Have Become Every French Woman’s Subtle Choice for an Evening Out in Paris.

Other articles

Apologies, Flats—These Unfashionable Heels Have Become Every French Woman’s Subtle Choice for an Evening Out in Paris.

A timeless option.