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 heels they wear for evening outings don’t receive as much attention. Though they lack the charming rounded toe and bow of ballet flats, they are equally classic and perfect for formal occasions. I’m referring to black heels—those with a sophisticated pointed toe and a slender stiletto heel. Every French woman has a pair she reliably turns to for parties, events, dinners, and more in Paris and elsewhere. (Image credit: Backgrid)

      WHO: Camille Rowe

      Don’t believe me? Just take a look at French American model Camille Rowe at the Bal d'Été, a black-tie gala hosted by Sofia Coppola during Haute Couture Week. Rowe, known for her French-girl fashion inspiration over the years, attended the event in a champagne-colored long-sleeve gown made from sheer silk organza adorned with beaded embroidery. She accessorized with a tiny silk handbag and a black scarf, completing her look with a pair of classic black patent-leather pumps.

      What’s appealing about this type of footwear is its simplicity; it doesn’t have to be as eye-catching as jelly sandals or PVC wedges. You can—and should!—own a beautiful pair of reliable shoes. Clearly, French women value them. If you do too, keep reading. Here are the top black heels for 2025.

      Shop Classic Black Heels:

      A shoe that is as timeless as they come.

      Whistles

      Black Corie Suede Heeled Pump

      The design of this shoe exudes elegance.

      STUART WEITZMAN

      Stuart Sculpt Leather-Trimmed Suede Slingback Pumps

      If you mostly wear flats, these micro kitten heels might suit you better than stilettos.

      So chic—the satin material feels quintessentially French to me!

      Marks & Spencer

      Stiletto Heel Pointed Court Shoes

      These heels are also available in a stylish ecru color.

      Toteme

      Naplack Stiletto Slingbacks Black

      The straps enhance the timeless quality of these heels.

      Topshop

      Dorota Kitten Heel Pointed Mule in Black

      I'm fond of the uniquely shaped heel on this Topshop style.

      ROGER VIVIER

      Nagoya 55 Embellished Leather Slingback Pumps

      These will look adorable with cropped trousers and shorter skirts to highlight the buckle detail.

      ZARA

      Leather Slingback Shoes 50th Anniversary

      A shoe that will never go out of style.

      FERRAGAMO

      Traci Embellished Suede Pumps

      The gold T-bar might seem fancy, but this shoe is just as classic as the rest of my selection.

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.

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

A timeless option.