Jeans and sneakers: What’s the Fashion Don’t in Paris?

Are sneakers an acceptable Parisian accessory? Or a fashion statement that U.S. tourists can make to their advantage? Phil Chavanne is the Senior Editor of Paris Eiffel Tower News and discusses this topic from many angles.

Being the Senior Editor of Paris-Eiffel-Tower-News.com, visitors’ e-mails have a magical tendency to find their way to my desk. It’s a good thing that I know to be a tourist expert in Paris and share my knowledge with other tourists. One of the many questions that I am asked is, “Is it considered bad fashion to wear sneakers in Paris?” P.G. That’s a topic P.G. Wodehouse’s Bertie Wooster would be delighted to take up. This worthy role model is my inspiration. I will bring an end to this existential torture once and for all with thundering authority.

Paris, French Fashion – Sneakers

Paris-bound tourists often believe that French women are fashion-crazy victims. Although this claim is clearly exaggerated as Paris is home to many fashion magazines, such as Elle and Madame Madame, that dictate what is fashionable and what is not, it is easy to access stylish clothing in Paris.

My humble opinion is that perennial tastes are very similar in Paris and New York City. Globalization has a tendency to homogenize fashion and makes work-a-day wear in large cities similar.

Regardless, the sneaker issue remains valid. How is it in Paris, when sneakers are so every day in the U.S.?

Except for those in low-level jobs, the French business dress code bans sneakers from being worn into corporate environments. Parisian women wear good-looking shoes for work unless their employer promotes a sporty image where sneakers are a natural fit.

Sneakers have been designing icons all their own. Each of Nike, Adidas, Puma, and Puma have their Parisian shops and produce more models than a convincing fashion victim could shake credit cards at. Adidas teamed up with Yohji Yamamoto, the iconic fashion designer, to create Y-3. This new line of sneakers is dress-up. Stella McCartney has her own Adidas brand.

What is the significant difference in shoe attitude between American and French she-consumers, and what could it be? These people will be wearing sneakers as fashion accessories and not as everyday shoes. Sneakers will not be purchased for comfort. However, they can fit into tight purses when they are paired with dress-down trousers and make the owner look great. She-Parisian is a sucker for shoes that make her feet look slim, petite, and elegant.

It is easy to see the most common types of sneakers worn by women in Paris: there aren’t many wide, comfortable, simple-looking sneakers. Flat-soled, small-sized designer sneakers will be found.

A pair of Robert Clergerie or Stephane Kelian shoes will almost always win over a couple of good-looking Pumas. Shoes are fashion statements—the more subtle the shoe, the better.

It is another essential difference between American and French women. French fashion is known for its simplicity. Garish is anything that is too obvious, being why the little-known black dress is a fashion icon and why Audrey Hepburn will forever be known as The Quintessential Fashionable Woman of America.

Tourism in sneakers

This does not signify that you cannot wear sneakers to Paris. Sneakers are an excellent choice for walking. It is essential to choose shoes that you can comfortably walk five miles per day in Paris, which will affect your mood throughout your stay in Paris. If sneakers are your favorite walking shoes, don’t hesitate to wear them.

The second point is about the “look issue”. Is it possible to look great on the streets or ridicule all the fashion-conscious, dressed-up Parisian women?

This question is not something you should ask. Who cares about how you look on the street? Don’t be self-conscious about your appearance; just be comfortable in the shoes you are wearing. This is your time in Paris, and you are a tourist! Jeans and sneakers can be worn internationally, and your attire will not offend anyone. You won’t be noticed unless you wear 80’s disco attire with polka dot sneakers.

If they do notice your Patagonia jacket, L.L. Bean trekking shoes, or jeans, they may think you are American. But that’s okay. They will most likely appreciate your visit to Paris.

Sneakers Shoes for dining out

It doesn’t mean that you can wear sneakers anywhere, at any time. It’s not so. You might be able to eat at a restaurant if you wear your white sneakers.

Let’s pretend you’re walking along in Levi’s jeans with Lands End boots. You are now hungry and looking for a good restaurant. It’s there! It’s delicious, the prices are reasonable, and there isn’t a lot of people. But, guests are well-dressed. They will let you in. Will you fit in?

I have yet to find a sign in Paris stating that sneakers are not allowed. High-end restaurants might reject you. We are sorry, we are full tonight. Except for those very rare, exclusive places, no restaurant won’t accept you simply because you are wearing casual sneakers.

The right question isn’t ‘Will you allow me in?’ but ‘Will you feel comfortable in a dressy area in sneakers?’ Self-consciousness is a surefire way of ruining your meal. It would be best to focus your attention on the food and your plate, not your shoes or garb.

My personal rule of thumb is to dress according to the place. Bring your Pradas if you plan to dine at expensive, formal restaurants in Paris. You can also visit the boutiques of Robert Clergerie and Stephane Kelian in Paris to purchase beautiful shoes by Parisian designers.

Night in the sneakers at the Opera

You can wear sneakers to other places. One of them is the Opera House. However, I don’t know anyone who would dress in jeans or sneakers to the Opera. The sneaker issue is, therefore, moot.

What about the cabaret? Even though the stage is the only place with good lighting, the people around you will often dress up for the occasion. It is better to be dressed up when you are going to spend the evening at Moulin Rouge’ or ‘Lido’, or ‘Paradis Latin’. Formal wear will make you feel more comfortable.

What about the boats along the Seine? Sneakers are not appropriate for dinner cruises aboard a vessel. You will enjoy this romantic experience and want to make the most of every moment. Evening dresses are ‘de rigueur. Sneakers are okay if you just want to cruise along the stream.

Museums? Don’t worry about style. Wear comfortable shoes. No one will notice your shoes, and the art is everywhere. Walking down the Louvre galleries can be tiring. There is so much to see, so many galleries, and so little time. The wise doctor advises you to choose cushion and comfort.

What is a vernissage art gallery? Your style is your cue. Vernissage nights are shorter than art galleries. No sneakers.

Wrapping up

You should dress for the occasion. A discreet and understated evening gown is a good choice. You can call ahead to find out the dress code if you are not sure. You can either bring a pair of dressy shoes or purchase one in Paris.

Sneakers can be worn for informal occasions as well in public without shame. If you have a pair of jeans and sneakers, you will look great. Nike, an American brand, is extremely popular in France. American brands Calvin Klein, Diesel, Levi’s, and Diesel, are all very popular in France. I cannot think of any French domain where American culture has not made an impact, except perhaps cuisine.

Enjoy the view by being comfortable in your sneakers.