Spring is coming (can you feel it? I can feel it!) which means facing the reality that when the kids’ snow boots go to the back of the closet, last year’s sneakers and shoes may not make it to see the first crocus. Darn those growing feet.

The new spring and summer kids’ shoes from Bensimon are just…wow. I’ve loved these European children’s sneakers for so long, because the modern styling plus the durable, rubber sole and classic canvas construction are simply the perfect combo. Plus, I’ve been able to pass a pair down to a second kid with no problem. Score!

The basic mary jane style shoes are always a favorite with girls, now in some fun colors that will go with a lot of the clothes on the racks this season.

I’m also loving all the funkier styles for boys and girls, like the eco-denim, fun stripes, or 4 different new Liberty of London floral patterns (at top).

And hey, if a limited-edition style called “Tennis Glitter Love” is not something my girls would be all over, then I don’t know what is. Unless maybe it was called “Gymnastics Glitter Love.”

It’s great to know that when my five-year-old goes through her “only these shoes forever” phase (as she is wont to do) that I don’t mind if she’s wearing them with a dressier skirt or a pair of cotton cargo pants. Sometimes both. You know…five-year-olds.  –Liz

Learn more about France’s Bensimon shoes on their English website, and keep an eye out for new styles coming soon on sites like Zappos and plenty of small indie boutiques that sell Euro footwear.