5 shoe styles that create perfect Parisian look this summer
Trending summer shoes for 2026 (Collage: RBC-Ukraine)
The French approach to summer dressing is setting trends once again, with fashion lovers choosing shoes that combine comfort and elegance. In 2026, classic silhouettes with a modern twist are taking center stage.
Fashion editor Kateryna Sobkova explains this season's must-have footwear.
The shoes trending for summer 2026
Mesh ballet flats
Ballet flats have been back in style for several seasons, but this summer, mesh designs are especially popular. They add a light, airy feel to any outfit while blending a classic silhouette with a contemporary touch.
French women pair mesh ballet flats with straight-leg jeans, linen trousers, midi skirts, and dresses. Thanks to their breathable texture, they feel less formal than traditional ballet flats and are an ideal choice for hot summer days.
Mesh ballet flats (Photo: instagram.com/annelauremais)
Pointed-toe slingbacks
Another favorite among fans of French style is the pointed-toe slingback. With their open heel, these shoes add an elegant touch, while the elongated pointed toe creates the illusion of a longer, slimmer silhouette.
They're easy to style with both classic tailoring and casual outfits. French fashion lovers wear them with suits, jeans, shorts, and breezy summer dresses.
Summer 2026 slingbacks (Photo: instagram.com/lenafarl)
Sporty ballet flats
One of the most interesting trends of the summer is the rise of sporty ballet flats. This style combines the feminine silhouette of classic ballet flats with the comfort of footwear designed for an active lifestyle.
These shoes often feature lightweight soles, minimalist designs, and subtle sporty details. They pair effortlessly with wide-leg trousers, jeans, knit dresses, or even more tailored pieces to create a stylish contrast.
Sporty ballet flats (Photo: instagram.com/claire_most)
Pastel sneakers
Despite their love of timeless classics, French women continue to make sneakers a key part of their summer wardrobe. This season, styles in soft pastel shades - beige, lemon yellow, pink, baby blue, and mint - are especially on trend.
These sneakers add a subtle touch of color without overwhelming an outfit, making them an easy alternative to classic white pairs. French fashion lovers style them with dresses, skirts, jeans, and lightweight suits.
Summer 2026 sneakers (Photo: instagram.com/claire_most)
Fisherman sandals with a contrasting toe
Among this summer's more unexpected trends are fisherman sandals with contrasting details. One of the most popular versions features a white upper paired with a black toe.
With their signature closed toe and woven straps, these sandals strike the perfect balance between practicality and style. French women wear them with wide-leg trousers, dresses, and minimalist summer outfits.
Trending sandals for summer 2026 (Photo: instagram.com/erinoffduty)
