French girls have declared it—here are the 6 trendiest shoe styles to sport this summer.
I have to confess, I've found myself in a bit of a fashion slump. This isn’t surprising, as it occurs almost every year when spring and summer outfits begin to emerge, and I'm left trying to figure out what to wear when the weather is unpredictable. This often results in me repeatedly wearing the same pair of trainers, which is unfortunate considering the multitude of exciting summer shoe trends I could start collecting and trying out now. However, trends can be transient, so I always look to a certain fashionable group for advice: the stylish women in France. They have an exceptional knack for spotting trends that somehow remain timeless. That’s why I’m relying on these French girl summer shoe trends to inform my shopping and styling choices for footwear this season.
Emerging from my comfortable trainers routine are about six summer shoe trends I've observed among the chicest French influencers. These selections stand out for several reasons. They’re adaptable enough for a variety of summer events, including vacations, weddings, and sunny afternoons in the park, and they pair effortlessly with a wide range of outfits, whether you prefer dresses and skirts or trousers and shorts. Most importantly, they all seem to enhance an outfit or add an element of interest. Even the more trendy options (like jelly sandals) contribute a playful and quintessentially summery vibe. So, if you're seeking summer shoe inspiration, look no further. Whether they're spending their summer in Paris, enjoying a long weekend in Marseille, or traveling elsewhere for vacation, French women are opting for these stylish shoes—styles that you'll definitely want to incorporate into your own wardrobe.
Here are 6 summer shoe trends from French girls to embrace in 2026:
1. **Kitten Heel Sandals**
**Style Notes:** There's an elegance that only kitten heels can provide, and the summer sandal versions are just as chic as their closed-toe relatives. Whether you're heading to an outdoor dinner or looking for a fashionable wedding guest outfit, kitten heel sandals are the go-to choice for the best-dressed French women this summer.
**Shop the Trend:**
- **MANGO**: Kitten-Heel Sandals With Buckle - The buckles give it a subtle '90s vibe.
- **TOTEME**: Croc-Effect Leather Sandals - The dark green option is playful yet distinctive from typical brown or black.
- **Reformation**: Serenity Bare Sandal - These sandals keep selling out and are available in black, white, and cherry red.
I appreciate how simple and elegant these are. They've definitely made it to my wish list.
2. **Jelly Sandals**
**Style Notes:** Jelly sandals bring back memories for me, and I adore how sleek and polished they are now, especially in clear colors and grid styles like those worn by Paris-based art director and model Salomé Mory. The plastic texture adds a fun element to your outfit, but, as she demonstrates, they can still look chic when paired with a silk summer dress and a structured handbag.
**Shop the Trend:**
- **ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS**: Iro Pvc Ballet Flats - This style pairs effortlessly with everything.
- **M&S**: Ankle Strap Flat Jelly Mule Sandals - Available in black, green, and blue, but they’re selling fast.
- **Melissa**: Known for the creation of the original jelly shoe in the '70s, they still offer a vibrant selection.
- **ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS**: Saionara Jelly Pvc Flip Flops - A favored choice among fashion enthusiasts this summer.
3. **Wedge Sandals**
**Style Notes:** I never thought I’d return to wedges until I discovered what modern designs look like. They are no longer the clunky shoes of the past; rather, they are now sleek and sophisticated. With wedge heels crafted from suede and clear straps, you have a shoe that’s as elegant as stiletto or kitten heels.
**Shop the Trend:**
- **ZARA**: Vinyl Strap Wedge Sandals - The vinyl strap and light suede create a summery feel.
- **CHRISTOPHER ESBER**: Scala Leather Sandals - A stunning mix of '90s minimalism and classic wedge design.
- **MIISTA**: Egle Sandals - Dark Red Patent Leather - I love sculptural shoes that resemble art, and Miista excels at this.
The pointy toe, creamy color, and wedge heel lend these a 1960s mod flair.
4. **Sneakerinas**
**Style Notes:** While I love a good pair of trainers, they can feel a bit stuffy during summer. I admire French architect and designer Julie Sergent Ferreri's choice of sneakerinas, which combine the structure and sole of trainers with the shape and laces of ballet flats
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French girls have declared it—here are the 6 trendiest shoe styles to sport this summer.
These stylish summer shoe trends for French girls include playful jelly sandals and elegant kitten heels.
