It's no secret that French women are the epitome of chic. But exactly how French ladies make their style appear so effortless is the secret we've long been searching for. Now, thanks to Taylor Swift, who recently stepped out in Reformation's Agathea loafers whilst on a date with Travis Kelce in LA, and Gigi Hadid, who wore them in NYC, we're one step closer.
Fortunately for us, the secret to stepping into your most stylish self is low-maintenance, painless, and doesn't require trying to appear as though everything comes naturally to you while walking in six-inch heels. In fact, it's all in a shoe.
"Moccasins or loafers are a must-have staple in any French women's wardrobe", says Chrysoline de Gastines, CEO of Parisian brand Balzac Paris.
Surprised to hear the secret to dressing like a Parisian is all in a pair of loafers? It's been a long time coming. While French women have been pairing most of their looks with loafers and moccasins for years, flat shoes have quickly become the trend of the year—thanks to our newfound obsession with quiet luxury.
You can't have missed Sofia Richie's wedding in the South of France last year, where quiet luxury was surely the theme. Since then, TikTok dubbed it "old money style" which instantly made the flat loafer a must-have item.
As with everything Sofia Richie wears—much like this iconic Missoni zig zag outfit—loafers are totally timeless. And, it's highly likely that you already have a pair hiding in the back of your wardrobe. They tie together every outfit: whether it's jeans and a Loewe vest, a summer dress or a tailored look for those office days. My winner for French style is a wide-leg linen trouser and loafer combination.
Loafers are definitely having their moment and they've quickly become all our favourite A-listers go-to shoe, from Gigi Hadid and Taylor Swift, to Hailey Bieber and Kristen Stewart. And, these lot have proven that loafers look as good as they do with jeans and a white tee, as they do with shorts and socks.
And they're not the only one blazing a trail for the loafer as the shoe of the season. Selena Gomez took to her instagram stories recently in a pair of chunky loafers from Charles & Keith proving the high street has some great options when it comes to stylish loafers too.
Now is the time to invest in a trusted pair that will see you through the end of summer, right into Autumn (when it's cold, pair them with a sheer pair of socks). They are well worth the investment as you will reach for them year after year. Just as French fashion never goes out of style, neither have loafers and now it makes sense - it's a French women's style secret.
Keep scrolling for the best loafers, as chosen by a shopping writer. I've looked at over 100 pairs, from the best French fashion brands to high street stores, and these are my favourites.
The best loafers to shop for French Quiet Luxury
Aeyde's loafers are a classic style that will remain in your wardrobe for seasons to come. Made from smooth suede, it's important not to forget to apply a protectant to keep them looking their best, but if cared for properly, we promise these will last you for years.
These classic loafers belong in every French woman's wardrobe. Made with chrome-free leather, and a low heel, we love the classic strap and topstitching for a real quiet luxury feel.
While the secret to French girl chic is all in a flat, no-heel loafer, we can't help but love a chunky style. We love them worn with a slightly sheer sock for a fun, preppy vibe.
A twist on a classic loafer with a unique two-tone colour way, these slip-on loafers from Charles & Keith are one of my favourites. Plus, the slight heel makes them a winner for more dressed up occasions too.
Red has been having a moment this season, from celebrities wearing it top-to-toe to street stylers opting for bold red accessories. Get involved in the trend by incorporating these Boden loafers into your outfits for a fun pop of colour.
For a twist on the classic style, Zara's statement silver loafers can do no wrong in our book. Featuring a high shine finish, chunky sole and at under £40, we can't think of any reason not to add them to our basket ASAP.
The backless design makes these perfect for summer and keeping cool on warmer days. This style is also available in brown and metallic if you want to tap into two trends in one shoe.
Made from responsibly sourced leather and with a subtle croc print, these loafers make a nice upgrade from a classic black pair.
When you're treating yourself to a pair of designer shoes it pays to make them a real investment. These YSL logo loafers are exactly that. In polished burgundy leather, they're the perfect loafer and you will still want to year them next year, and the one after.
While a pair of classic black loafers are an easy fashion win, we're big fans of trying something different and that's where Mango's chic gold style come in. Perfect for pairing with blue denim, they're sure to add interest to any outfit.
If they're good enough for Selena, they're good enough for us. Charles & Keith's Gabine loafers feature a sleek silver buckle for an understated look, while the square toe gives a menswear inspired feel. Perfection!
When I hear loafers, I immediately think of Gucci. Gucci first released these iconic loafers back in 1953, (way ahead of the trend) and they have never gone out of style and remain a true classic 70 years later. That's what you call an investment shoe.
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