I have an admission, I'm now the proud owner of a cap. Hardly a groundbreaking statement, I know, but long-term readers may know my penchant for overdressing for the simplest of venues. You might be wondering what that has to do with trainers but you could say I've (somewhat) succumbed to the appeal of practicality at the ripe age of thirty-two and I think that my two-piece trainer collection may just follow suit. Despite French women's style being synonymous with dressing up and uniforms comprising jeans, wrap dresses and heels, it also centres on a practical approach to style.
Contrary to popular belief, the Parisian women I see day-to-day aren't always clad in the fanciest pieces, especially not when tending to errands—like frequenting markets or making a beeline for the morning's takeaway espresso. Instead, they often wear practical, easy-to-replicate outfits and trainers are a huge part of the uniform. Biking is a common mode of transport here and many French women I know cycle to and from the office in trainers. Their suave wardrobes encompass trainer outfits, and they are able to incorporate them into classic looks with little to no effort.
The popular trainer choices are streamlined and classic - Adidas Sambas and Gazelles, Vans, Converse and Veja being another well-loved European brand. Colour pallets usually lean towards neutral tones—spanning ecru to grey and plenty of black and white, of course. For ways to wear trainers with ease and sophistication this autumn, continue reading for six ways to elevate trainers.
See My Favourite French Women Trainer Outfits:
1. Baseball Cap + Navy Blazer + Straight-Leg Jeans
Style Notes: Trust French women to make a simple jeans and sweatshirt look chic. To get the look, simple add sunnies and a blazer, and opt for a dark wash denim as opposed to lighter hues.
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Cliché they may be but women wear printed sweatshirts frequently here. French brands like A.P.C and Isabel Marant replenish their collections frequently, but for a preppy logo style look to Sporty and Rich.
The perfect blue hue.
COS always nails classic tailoring.
Polène is best known for its sculptural mini bags but I've been appreciating the newer releases. The Ilo is a relaxed style with leather trimming — meaning it can be integrated into myriad looks — both casual and formal. It's both practical and chic.
Caps are practical for morning matcha runs and cold walks by the river. It's surprisingly difficult to find a plain (and reasonably priced) baseball cap but H&M has come to the rescue!
The Adidas Samba needs no introduction. It's the trainer that had non-trainer people swooning. Myself included. If you struggle to get your hands on this particular style, Adidas Gazelles can be styled in the exact same way.
2. Red Jumper + Blazer + Leggings
Style Notes: Many of us assume French women's style is synonymous with muted colourways but I've noticed first-hand how much they appreciate pops of colour. I love the juxtaposition of cherry hues with ecru trainers. The addition of socks loans a sports luxe feel.
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A staple in every fashion person's wardrobe.
This Reformation jumper is a bestseller year after year.
Wolford leggings are a cut above the rest. I'm always impressed with the quality and innovation behind its designs. I've been living in my leggings at the weekends.
Simple, chic and will go with everything.
3. Navy Jumper + Black Jeans + Vans
Style Notes: This gorgeous look is incredibly refined and oozes the simplicity that French style is most commonly associated with. You'll likely find these individual components in your wardrobe and to elevate dark tones add an accessory in a saturated hue. For outerwear, I'd recommend a camel trench.
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Sezane's Gaspard is another fashion hero. Now available in a further 23 additional colourways, there is truly a hue to tickle everyone's fancy. Wear the Gaspard knit with the buttons at the back or facing the front, as a cardigan. It's a piece you'll have forever.
There are so many beautifully cut jeans on the high street, however, if you are considering investing in high-end denim, I'd look to brands like Levi's. The attention to detail is expert. Between the held-in fabric and twisted seams, it's not your average pair.
Toteme's trench coat is one of those timeless pieces you'll love and wear forever.
Vans cleverly transcended the skater realm and are commonly worn in Paris with off-duty looks.
4. Knitted Dress + Monochrome Trainers
Style Notes: A knitted maxi dress paired with trainers is a fail-safe outfit combo come early autumn. Perfect for the weekend, work or a lunch date, it is equal parts comfortable and chic.
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Such a great wardrobe staple. Dress it up with boots or heels or down with sandals or trainers.
If I could buy any trainers right now, it would be these.
Add simple accessories for an added bit of polish.
5. Wide-Leg Trousers + Cropped Jacket + Tee
Style Notes: It's not just jeans French women pair their favourite trainers with, wide-leg trousers are also a solid option.
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I always refresh my basic pieces at this time of year, and this COS tee is heading my way as we speak!
You'd be forgiven for thinking this jacket was designer.
Don't sleep on Reformation's trousers.
My Vejas are some of the comfiest trainers I own.
6. Blazer + Shorts + New Balances
Style Notes: The striped shorts trends took over summer 2024. For those early autumn days when its not too chilly, simply throw on an oversized blazer and pair with your comfy new balance trainers for a chic 'off-duty model' look.
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The perfect slouchy fit.
This will act as the basis for so many of your outfits.
The striped short trend has been huge this year.
New Balance trainers are great for days when you're doing a lot of walking.
Such a cool shape.
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