4 Shades, 4 Ways: How I Style My Bensimon Tennis Shoes
Shop the rest of the outfits here!
Bensimon has long been a quiet icon in French wardrobes. Known for their classic canvas tennis shoes, the brand was born in the 1970s and quickly became a go-to for everyday ease, lightweight, unfussy, and effortlessly chic. It’s the kind of shoe that feels like part of the backdrop of French life: worn to school, on weekends, to the market, or just strolling through the city.
I shared more about the brand’s beautiful history and roots in my original blog post, read more here.
On my recent trip to Paris, I picked up four shades, white, navy, sage, and muted rose, and each one has found its place in my everyday wardrobe!
Here’s a look at how I’ve styled them recently:
White
Look: Embroidered blouse, structured denim, and a straw tote
This is the pair I reach for most! Clean, minimal, and endlessly versatile, white Bensimons go with everything. I love styling them with crisp cotton pieces and straw textures for an elevated everyday look that still feels relaxed.
Why it works: White sneakers brighten up any outfit and add a fresh finish to denim
Style note: A printed scarf adds just the right amount of polish to a simple blouse and jeans
Navy
Look: White tee, straight-leg denim, and a striped sweater over the shoulders
Navy feels like the quiet achiever of the group. Structured but not stiff, it works beautifully with classic staples like a white tee and light-wash jeans. I love how it balances the look when layered with neutral accessories.
Why it works: Navy anchors a look without being too bold and pairs effortlessly with white and denim
Style note: Add texture or stripes to make a tonal outfit feel layered and interesting
Sage
Look: White button-down, denim, and a straw bag with a printed scarf
This soft sage green blends so seamlessly into my wardrobe it’s practically a neutral. It’s subtle but brings a sense of calm and earthiness that I love. Paired with classic pieces, it gives off a fresh, natural vibe.
Why it works: Sage complements whites, tans, and blues effortlessly
Style note: Layer in warm-toned accents like a scarf or gold jewelry for a little contrast
Muted Rose
Look: Eyelet button-up top, denim, and a woven shoulder bag
This shade adds just the right touch of color. It’s romantic without being too sweet, like a faded rose that pairs well with neutrals. I love how it brings a little warmth to denim and white without taking over the look.
Why it works: Muted rose feels soft and wearable but still adds something unexpected
Style note: Keep the rest of the outfit minimal to let the color speak for itself
Final Thoughts
Bensimon tennis shoes have been in my life for as long as I can remember, and they’ve remained one of the easiest, most reliable pieces in my wardrobe. I’m always on the lookout for a slim, lightweight sneaker (especially in spring and summer) when I want the overall look to feel lighter and less bulky. These are exactly that. They’re machine-washable, travel well, and style effortlessly with just about everything!
Size notes: I wear a 37 (typically a US 7–7.5), and they fit perfectly with and without no-show socks. I’m wearing socks in all the content above for reference.
Shopping: You can find all 4 pairs and other favorites on my ShopMy here! And you can shop all the other items I’m wearing in this post on LTK here!
With Amour,
M.