15 French Shoe Brands Parisian Girls Are Obsessed With

Shoes
Written By Lily

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french shoe brands

Photo credit: Jonak

There’s something effortlessly chic about Parisian style, and that extends right down to the soles of their shoes. From iconic designers like Christian Louboutin and Roger Vivier to more accessible French favorites like Jonak and Bobbies, these 15 French shoe brands define what it means to step out in style.

I’ve done all of the research for you (based on years of shopping in France) to bring you the crème de la crème of French footwear, for all budgets and styles. Whether you’re after tried-and-true classics or trend-forward designs, there’s something here for every woman curating her shoe collection.

Here’s the ultimate French shoe brands list that Parisian girls are absolutely obsessed with.

15 French Shoe Brands to Shop Now

1. Carel

A true icon among French shoe designers, Carel has been crafting elegant, practical footwear since 1952. Best known for its signature Mary Jane pumps, the brand’s iconic Kina trio-strap patent leather shoe is a staple in the closet of many stylish Parisiennes and fashion it-girls (including Alexa Chung, Lucy Boynton, and French singers Angèle and Clara Luciani). Their Ariana ballet flats are another hallmark style with an undeniable retro aesthetic.

2. Repetto

Founded in 1947 near the Opéra National de Paris, Repetto got its start by creating ballet slippers for professional dancers. Today, its iconic designs have transitioned from the stage to the streets of Paris. The brand is synonymous with the classic ballet flat. The Cendrillon is Repetto’s most recognizable style, while the Camille ballet pump has a similar silhouette with a subtle lift. Available in a rainbow of rich hues and crafted from supple matte or glossy leather, Repetto shoes deliver French femininity to your footwear.

3. Jonak

Jonak is one of the most affordable French shoe brands, offering on-trend collections each season. You can expect Parisian chic footwear, all at price points that feel accessible. From ‘70s-inspired platform boots to sleek ankle styles, Jonak shoes are the kind you’ll reach for all fall and winter long. They’re also some of my personal favorites. I frequently shop at the Jonak boutique in Strasbourg (especially during the French soldes). I’ve gotten so much wear out of my Birman boots since I purchased them last year.

Read More: Where to Shop in Paris on a Budget

4. Bobbies

Since 2010, Bobbies has been bringing Parisian allure to your footwear. Known for their unique silhouettes, vibrant colors, and high-quality leathers, their range includes everything from boots and sneakers to derbies and pumps, all at reasonable prices (most pairs are under $300). I own their Liv heels (sadly no longer available, but you can find similar styles), and they’re some of the most comfortable heels I’ve worn. They frequently collaborate with designers, brands, and influencers, so it’s worth keeping an eye on their latest releases.

5. Veja

You can’t talk about the best French sneakers without mentioning Veja shoes. Spotted on celebs like Meghan Markle, Kate Middleton, Emma Watson and Reese Witherspoon, Veja specializes in sustainable sneakers synonymous with classic, cool style. Signature models include the Campo and Esplar, each one made from recycled and organic materials. The French footwear brand also makes some of my favorite walking shoes for Paris. If you visit the French capital, you’ll likely spot the iconic “V” everywhere.

6. Sézane

Sézane may be a darling of French fashion, but the Parisian label delivers just as much when it comes to footwear. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and thoughtful details, each pair feels intentionally made. As a B-Corp-certified brand, Sézane also earns points for its strong commitment to sustainability. The Jack sneakers are a longtime favorite among Sézane fans, but their sandals, loafers, babies, and boots (really any of their shoes) are equally worth shopping.

Read More: The 10 Best Sézane Pieces for Classic French Style

7. Minelli

For over five decades, Minelli has been a beloved brand for French it-girls looking for affordable yet surprisingly high-quality shoes. Known for its mix of both classic footwear and trend-led styles, they offer everything from chic slingbacks to western boots. Every pair of Minelli shoes is imagined and designed in Marseille, before being carefully crafted in European workshops. I bought a pair of black ankle boots from Minelli years ago (they were one of my first “French girl” shoes), and I still reach for them on nights out. They've truly stood the test of time.

8. Bocage

A heritage brand reinvented, Bocage has been designing quality footwear since 1966. It’s based in the Maine-et-Loire region of France, where the brand’s spirit, style, and collections are still developed today. Among its Iconics collection, you’ll find chunky-soled boots, preppy Mary Janes, strappy sandals, and leather ankle boots: all French girl style staples. With over 50 years of expertise, Bocage proves that comfort and chic can absolutely go hand in hand (and not break the bank).

9. K.Jacques

Founded in 1933 in Saint-Tropez, K.Jacques is known for its handcrafted leather sandals. Over the decades, K.Jacques sandals have become a South of France staple, spotted on artists, filmmakers, and fashion icons alike. Today, they're still beloved by celebrities and chic vacationers. Not to mention, every stylish Parisian packs a pair for her summer holidays on the French Riviera. The Epicure sandal remains a forever favorite, though I’m partial to the Abako. They've also released stylish collaborations with brands like Dôen and Ciao Lucia.

10. Rivecour

Quality, comfort and elegance define the French shoe brand Rivecour. From heels and pumps to sandals and sneakers, you can find every silhouette you need to build the perfect shoe wardrobe. The brand is passionate about exceptional craftsmanship, luxurious materials, and a distinctly French sense of femininity. Among their most coveted styles are colorful suede sandals, metallic slingbacks, and block-heel pumps that seamlessly transition from office to evening.

11. Clergerie

Robert Clergerie is a legend in French shoemaking, known for his architectural and innovative designs. Founded in 1981, his eponymous brand blends masculine and feminine elements with chunky soles and brogue details. Their sky-high wedges and platform boots are favorites among fashion-forward Parisians. Each pair is crafted in the shoe manufacturing hub of Romans-sur-Isère and made with high-quality materials and superior comfort in mind.

Read More: 100 French Fashion Brands You Need to Know

12. Roger Vivier

One of the most famous French shoe brands, Roger Vivier is luxury at its finest. Since opening his first boutique in Paris in 1937, Vivier has been hailed as the “Fabergé of footwear,” crafting designs that are true works of art. Known for signature crystal buckle pumps, the brand has been worn by royalty and red carpet stars alike (Catherine Deneuve, Brigitte Bardot and Queen Elizabeth II among them). Today, every Roger Vivier shoe and accessory continues to embody timeless elegance and impeccable craftsmanship.

13. Laurence Dacade

Since launching her eponymous line in 2008, Laurence Dacade has been known to blend boldness with femininity in her designs. Trained at AFPIC School of Shoe Design and a former footwear designer for Chanel and Givenchy, she creates playful yet functional shoes for the modern woman on the go. Embellished ankle boots, towering platform heels, and her iconic androgynous loafer: each and every pair combines Parisian sophistication with vibrant colors and textures. Dacade’s philosophy: “There is no need to suffer for beauty.”

french shoe designer 
Laurence Dacade

Angie Glove Boot

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14. Michel Vivien

A luxury French shoe brand celebrated for understated elegance, Michel Vivien’s designs are made in Italy using time-honored savoir-faire. With a background designing for fashion houses like Christian Dior, Lanvin, and Yves Saint Laurent, Vivien launched his own label in 1998 focused on timeless silhouettes, refined femininity, and all-day comfort. Beloved by French icons like Sabina Socol, Jeanne Damas, and Bérénice Bejo, his shoes are made for women who value seasonless luxury over fleeting trends. They’re definitely out of my price range, but I keep the brand bookmarked on sites like Vestiaire Collective and YOOX.

Michel Vivien

Worth Sandals

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15. Christian Louboutin

No list of the best French shoe brands would be complete without Christian Louboutin. His signature red sole is instantly recognizable and eternally chic. Known for sky-high heels and sculptural silhouettes, Louboutin designs are made to turn heads. As the designer himself has said, feeling sexy in his shoes matters more than comfort. From stilettos to strappy sandals, Louboutin may not be ideal for Paris’s cobblestone streets, but they remain the ultimate fashion status symbol.

Read More: The 15 Most Iconic French Handbag Brands You Should Know

luxury french shoe brands 
Christian Louboutin

Iriza 100 Leather Pumps

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Final Thoughts on French Shoe Brands

No matter what shoes are on your wish list, there’s a French brand that fits the bill. Whether you’re shopping in Paris or browsing stateside, I recommend these French shoe labels for Parisian style in each pair. I’m always on the lookout for new favorites, so as I discover more brands, I’ll be sure to update this list!

What are your favorite French shoe brands? Let me know in the comments below.

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