French Women Have a Hidden Affection for Trainers—5 Summer Trends They're Now Consistently Embracing

      A prevalent misunderstanding regarding French fashion is the notion that they strictly adhere to a few stereotypical items, such as Breton striped shirts from Petit Bateau, two-toned ballet flats from Chanel, and a long-standing Courrèges vinyl jacket. However, whether in Le Marais or Marseille, you’ll frequently encounter fashionable women who reject these simplistic images, choosing instead to showcase bold silhouettes and exceptionally chic vintage pieces creatively combined into a desirable outfit. Nevertheless, among the various categories, shoes often remain undervalued when analyzing their wardrobes. This highlights the importance of examining the trainer trends that French women are embracing for summer 2026. When envisioning a fashionable Parisian strolling along the Seine or a local enjoying the sun-drenched shores near Antibes, it's rare to picture them in trainers.

      Rather, a more stereotypical image surfaces: that of block-heeled and bow-adorned Repettos, velvety strappy Le Monde Beryl flats, or, for a more sophisticated option, glossy leather Charvet slippers. However, a closer look at the trend-setting French fashion brands will reveal that trainers occupy a significant space in their collections. At Celine, a new urban chic has emerged thanks to creative director Michael Ryder’s background with American heritage brand Ralph Lauren, resulting in a rise of softer, non-athletic derby shoes. Isabel Marant has welcomed back wedge trainers, attracting a new following for this polarizing style. At Chloé, Chemena Kamali has reinterpreted the brand's bohemian origins, creating a boxer-meets-ballerina high-top sneaker that’s both exceptionally playful and practical. Clearly, French women are not immune to the appeal of trainers. Below, discover the five trainer trends making waves this summer, from hybrids of beloved Mary Janes to luxurious suede options.

      1. Jazz Shoes

      Style Notes: French women are notoriously averse to athletic attire, often steering clear of leggings. Consequently, the trainers they choose must align with their chic yet relaxed aesthetic. Enter jazz shoes—worn by many brands from Reformation to Proenza Schouler. These shoes integrate all the essential components of trainers, such as lace-up fronts and a nod to athletic origins. Inspired by classic dance footwear, these shoes are definitely a fashionable step forward.

      Shop the Trend:

      - Soeur, a distinguished French brand, is indispensable in any French trainer selection.

      - Charles & Keith

       Pippa Leather Derby Flats

       The almond-toe design is simply exquisite.

      - Lemaire

       Souris Leather Derby Shoes

       Lemaire is one of those low-key fashion labels that boasts widespread admiration, with followers including Jennifer Lawrence and Solange Knowles, making them increasingly popular.

      2. Mary Jane Hybrids

      Style Notes: When French women choose to deviate from their cherished Mary Janes, they do so while retaining the essential characteristics of the shoe. This hybrid trend replaces block heels with subtle soles and buckled straps with elastic cords, adding a technical twist to the traditionally feminine design. There’s just something captivating about it…

      Shop the Trend:

      - PUMA

       Speedcat Ballet Etoile Sneakers

       Pastels are also a hidden favorite in French fashion.

      - Jil Sander

       Moon Ballerina

       Jil Sander epitomizes minimalist chicness.

      - Diesel

       D-Mile Ballerina Lace Up Ii W

       For a more avant-garde interpretation, look to the Italian brand Diesel.

      - Bronx

       Zenday-A Ballet Flats in Coffee Bean

       Both functional and fashion-forward.

      3. Retro Redux

      Style Notes: For purists who believe trainers must be functional for running, this trend is for you. With events like the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix, French Open, and FIFA World Cup reigniting interest in sporty attire, French women are gravitating toward nostalgic and iconic designs that once dominated these settings. Models like the Puma Speedcat and the Phoebe Philo-approved Stan Smith indicate a rise in retro-inspired styles.

      Shop the Trend:

      - ASICS

       Gel-Kayano 14 Rubber-Trimmed Mesh Sneakers

      - LOEWE

       Ballet Runner 2.0 Logo-Appliquéd Suede-Trimmed Mesh Sneakers

       A blend of ballet flat and utility runners, this Loewe pair was one of Jonathan Anderson's last designs for the brand.

      - NIKE

       Astrograbber Leather-Trimmed Canvas Sneakers

      - ISABEL MARANT

       Bekett Leather-Trimmed Suede High-Top Wedge Sneakers

      4. Slimline Sportif

      Style Notes: French women are classically inclined, which means their selections in trainers are typically more limited compared to those from other fashion capitals. This can be seen figuratively and literally, as they favor slimmer profiles that can seamlessly substitute for ballet flats or loafers. This summer, labels like Dries Van Noten, Maison Marg