French Women Know Good Shoes—6 Autumn Styles They're Already Wearing
As the season begins to shift, I can't help but dedicate some time to rethinking my wardrobe. I like to take this moment to pull out the heroes that have earned their place year after year, while also gently setting aside those pieces that haven’t quite been pulling their weight. Once I’ve mapped out where the gaps lie, the inspiration hunt begins—and there’s no source I return to more than French women.
Across my feed, I’ve noticed a handful of chic, versatile and elevated footwear choices making repeat appearances. Think classics reimagined with modern details, timeless pairs that promise longevity and subtle twists that ensure outfits always look fresh. Below, I’ve rounded up the six shoe styles that French women are wearing right now—and that will soon be everywhere.
Discover the French Girl Autumn Shoe Trends Taking Off Right Now
1. Pointed-Toe Knee-High Boots
Style Notes: Early autumn always delivers some of the most exciting styling opportunities of the year. With temperatures hovering in that perfect in-between, layering becomes both practical and playful, and this is when I like to get the most wear out of pointed-toe knee-high boots. Paired with knee-skimming skirts, they feel polished and easy. Aptly warm yet undeniably chic, this is the boot trend already dominating French wardrobes—and one that’s guaranteed to become a mainstay in the coming months.
Shop Pointed-Toe Knee-High Boots:
Honestly, these look more expensive than they actually are.
Anthropologie
Tall Pointed-Toe Boots
Style with a knee-high skirt or wear these under bootleg jeans.
Schuh
Delia Knee High in Black
In my opinion, every great autumn wardrobe starts with a pair of knee-high boots.
2. Glossy Leather Loafers
Style Notes: Few shoes feel as quintessentially autumnal as loafers, and this season, French women are gravitating towards glossy leather finishes. Patent loafers lend a subtle sheen that instantly elevates any outfit, whether they’re grounding casual denim or sharpening up wide-leg trousers.
Shop Glossy Leather Loafers:
Style these with fresh white socks to give your look a preppy finish.
Arket
Lacquered Leather Loafers
I'm loving this slim-line silhouette for autumn 2025.
Reformation
Agathea Chunky Loafer
These also come in four other shades.
3. Black Ballet Flats:
Style Notes:Ballet flats never really leave the French girl's wardrobe, but autumn gives them a renewed sense of purpose. Their closed-toe silhouette makes them a natural go-to when the chill sets in. Effortlessly chic with denim, midi skirts, or tailored trousers, they’re the perennial favourite that French women lean on season after season.
Shop Black Ballet Flats:
These also come in beige, burgundy and brown.
Arket
Leather Ballet Flats
Style with denim or pair with a swishy skirt.
COS
Minimal Leather Ballet Flats
Be quick! These are on their way to selling out.
3. Suede Boat Shoes
Style Notes:Boat shoes have been bubbling up for a few seasons now, but this autumn, suede variations are having a moment. With texture playing such a key role in 2025’s fabric trends, suede brings a softer, cosier edge to the preppy silhouette.
Shoe Suede Boat Shoes:
Free People
Yachting Day Boat Shoes
These also come in 11 other shades!
Miu Miu
Faded Unlined Suede Loafers
Miu Miu's suede boat shoes are a fashion person's favourite.
H&M
Leather Driving Loafers
Style these jeans or pair with slouchy linen trousers.
5. Brown Boots:
Style Notes: Chocolate brown remains the shade of the season, and boots are the chicest way to wear it. If black feels too stark for autumn, these boots offer a warmer, more luxurious alternative that still works with everything in your wardrobe.
