A polished yet effortless aesthetic has long defined the Parisian approach to getting dressed. Rather than chasing every passing trend, French women tend to build capsule wardrobes around elevated basics that can be worn on repeat. Denim is central to that formula: straight-leg, dark-wash, or subtly relaxed jeans are the quiet backbone of countless outfits seen on the streets of Paris.
Recently, one particular flat-shoe trend has emerged as the go-to partner for those jeans. Parisian It girls are gravitating toward glove flats—minimalist styles with a higher vamp that gently hug the foot—or versions with a refined V-shaped upper. The appeal lies in their simplicity. These shoes echo the clean lines of a classic ballet flat but feel more modern and architectural, giving them a distinctly grown-up edge.
Unlike statement heels or hyper-trendy sneakers, glove flats slip seamlessly into everyday life. They are the kind of shoes you can wear from morning coffee runs to late dinners without a second thought. Their no-frills design makes them endlessly versatile, yet they still add a considered, almost tailored finish to an outfit. With jeans, they strike that elusive balance between casual and polished that Parisians are known for.
Street-style images from the French capital show the formula in action. Dark-wash, straight-leg jeans paired with sleek black glove flats and a sharp blazer create a look that feels both current and timeless. A crisp white blouse, vintage-inspired blue denim, and cherry-red flats channel classic Left Bank style, proving that a pop of color can still read as chic rather than loud.
Even when Parisians experiment with denim, the shoe choice remains the same. Khaki-toned jeans, which have been gaining traction as an alternative to traditional blue, are grounded with the same minimalist flats. The result is a subtle twist on a uniform rather than a complete departure from it.
What sets this trend apart is its wearability. Glove flats and V-cut styles are comfortable enough for walking city streets yet refined enough to elevate the simplest jeans-and-shirt combination. For those looking to emulate Parisian style, investing in a pair may be one of the easiest—and most realistic—ways to capture that elusive, effortless look.