Chic Parisianista Tip #1: Invest in a Pair of Ballet Flats…

For high-end flats, look no further than Roger Vivier. If Jackie O, Liz Taylor, Sophia Loren, Catherine Deneuve, and Ines de la Fressange (the essence of Parisian chic) wear them – you should too. Or get a good imitation. They are quite simply jewelry for your feet!

For mid priced flats, check out Repetto . The oval & pointe shaped ballets flats are not only magnifique, they are even handmade in France (Bolchoi & Bardot are my favorite styles.) La Mom also recommends Pretty Ballerinas. They are comfortable, sexy (showing just the right amount of toe cleavage), and fun! It’ll be hard to choose among zebra & leopard prints, disco explosion, patent & tartan trimmed in bright colors. They add pizazz to any simple outfit – ooh la la!

For low end, La Mom recommends anything you like that fits your budget bien sur.

But remember, you should approach choosing your flats as if you were buying an apartment in Paris.Take your time, research what’s out there, visit upscale and downscale shops to figure out what you can get for your money.

Then decide what basics colors you need to match your wardrobe, throw in a flashy neutral like silver or gold, and maybe one fun print. Ballet flats can become your signature accessory much like Chanel designer Karl Lagerfeld‘s sunglasses are his or ex-supermodel Carla Bruni’s husband (President Nicolas Sarkozy) is hers.

Fashion magazines always tell us to spend more on quality shoes and bags. Well, after living in Paris for over a decade, I can tell you that Parisiennes pray at the altar of quality shoes.

Many French women have mastered the art of going down-market on clothes yet dressing up an outfit with a fabulous pair of ballet flats that make the whole ensemble look like it cost a fortune. Now isn’t that chic?

_{Photos of Repetto Paris ballet flats, courtesy of La Mom.}

>> Peek at some cute flats