Brand Highlight: Bensimon, the classic French shoe you’ll reach for again and again!
Shop here! For ref, I’m typically between a 7 and 7.5, I’m wearing the size 37 here!
A French Icon with a Rich History
If you’ve ever admired that effortlessly chic, just-threw-this-on look that French women seem to master so well, Bensimon likely plays a quiet role behind the scenes. For over 45 years, this beloved French brand has embodied casual elegance through its iconic canvas tennis. Lightweight, timeless, and oh-so-easy to wear!
It all began in 1979 when brothers Serge and Yves Bensimon discovered surplus white tennis shoes originally made for the French army. With a spark of creativity, they dyed them in vibrant hues and gave them a new life, one that would become a staple in French wardrobes for decades. From Jane Birkin to the everyday Parisienne, Bensimon shoes found a place in nearly every closet!
What sets Bensimon apart is its dedication to craftsmanship. All of their shoes are made in Europe at the same trusted factory, maintaining quality and consistency across every pair. The canvas tennis are dyed in France, in collaboration with skilled dye masters who ensure every shade is rich, vibrant, and uniquely Bensimon. This commitment to artistry gives each pair its own touch of character, adding to their timeless appeal.
Their first Paris shop, Autour du Monde, opened in 1986 and quickly became more than just a store. It was a lifestyle destination, curated with fashion, books, art, and home décor. Bensimon wasn’t just creating shoes, they were crafting a way of life.
Today, Bensimon remains a symbol of understated style and continues to evolve, offering shoes that are practical, washable, comfortable, and always charming!
Why Bensimon Is So Personal to Me
Growing up in the south of France, I always had a pair of Bensimon shoes on hand. They were the go-to shoe for school, for weekends, for everything. Women in my family wore them. My friends wore them. It’s one of those pieces that feels like a quiet thread running through generations of French style - simple, reliable, and effortlessly cool.
On my most recent trip to France, I couldn’t help but stock up. I came home with four pairs (yes, four!), one in white, which you’ll spot in my latest social media posts, and three more you’ll be seeing soon. They’re more than just shoes. For me, they’re a little piece of home I get to bring into my daily wardrobe, even here in California.
How to Style Bensimon
As a French stylist living in California, I’m always looking for pieces that bring both beauty and ease to your daily wardrobe and Bensimon checks every box. Whether you’re running to a café, exploring your city, or heading out for a casual brunch, here are a few of my favorite ways to style them:
1. Parisian Casual
Outfit: Striped boatneck top, cropped beige trousers, and a trench coat.
Shoe color: Classic white
The vibe: Think Montmartre on a Sunday, timeless, simple, and effortlessly chic.
2. Coastal Weekend
Outfit: Flowy linen dress, woven bag, oversized sunglasses.
Shoe color: Light blue or pale yellow
The vibe: Perfect for a relaxed stroll along the beach promenade or a summer farmer's market.
3. Creative Workday
Outfit: Dark-wash denim, crisp white button-down, and a statement cardigan.
The vibe: Polished yet relaxed, ideal for those days when you want to feel put-together without overthinking it.
4. Café Moment
Outfit: Midi skirt, tucked-in tee, and a cardigan tied around your shoulders.
The vibe: Grab your favorite book and a cappuccino. This is your quiet luxury moment.
A Wardrobe Essential with a French Touch
What makes Bensimon special isn’t just the design, it’s the lifestyle it reflects. These shoes are lightweight, machine-washable, family-friendly, and endlessly versatile. In a world of overcomplicated trends, they’re a breath of fresh, French air!
And yes, you can absolutely shop them now! I’ve added a direct link here so you can discover the color that speaks to you! For reference I wear a 7 or 7.5 and I got them in 37, I’d say they run TTS!
With Amour,
M.