While, in my books, December is normally earmarked as the season of stilettos, this time around I’m taking my cues from Sarah Jessica Parker and French women, and slipping into a chicer—and far more comfortable—pair of T-bar flats instead.

Stepping out in New York this week, Sarah Jessica elevated her knee-skimming skirt and warm grey knit with the flat shoe trend I’ve only spotted in the wardrobe of French women before.

Sarah Jessica Parker walks down the street in New York wearing a polka dot skirt, grey jumper, green jacket and t-bar flats.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Even without the lift of a heel, T-bar flats retain a natural sophistication. The delicate strap that traces the top of the foot adds poise, delivering a graceful, elongated look without any of the discomfort.

Long beloved by the most stylish French women I know, the T-bar brings a wearable, subtly preppy edge to their everyday uniforms—whether that’s a pleated skirt, straight-leg jeans or a tailored trouser.

Influencer @tamaramory wears a longsleeve top with a beige miniskirt and black t-bar ballet flats.

And perhaps part of the charm lies in the nostalgia, as the silhouette it recalls the polished school-day shoes many of us once wore.