French style is often associated with effortless elegance, minimalism, and a put together aesthetic without trying too hard – and for good reason! French women always look so chic. When I think of classic French fashion, I think of how it focuses on quality and natural style instead of overcomplicating outfits. While we may not live in Paris or another part of France, we can still make a French style outfit that works in our daily lives here.
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How To Make A French Style Outfit
The French style aesthetic always feels like everything is perfectly combined, the fit is just right, and there’s intentional simplicity. Basically, it feels like French women have an actual wardrobe with pieces that mix and match instead of just a closet full of random clothes. It’s almost like an unintentional capsule wardrobe that’s styled to perfection.
When you think of capsule wardrobe, you might think of simple pieces. While basics like straight leg jeans and a button up are pieces I always notice French women wearing, there is typically a little more to it. Basically, the clothes don’t have to be boring. French women always seem to perfectly mix and match statement pieces with classic pieces, or even style patterns together.
What is French Fashion Style
French outfits tend to feel classic and effortless. There’s a focus on classic silhouettes, high quality basics that can be worn in multiple ways, and statement pieces that still feel tailored and versatile. Here are a few examples that come to mind:
- Neutral tones with pops of color, pattern, and statement pieces throughout
- Both romantic and masculine silhouettes
- Minimal branding
- Accessories that add to an outfit but don’t overtake it
- Practical shoes that still feel chic
- A focus on proper fit – casual pieces still have a tailored feel
French Style Clothing Basics
- White button-down shirt
- Straight-leg or slightly relaxed denim
- Tailored blazer
- Simple knit tops
- A Classic neutral trench coat or a linen trench coat for warmer months
- Ballet flats
How To Make A French Styled Outfit
- Stick to a neutral color palette for base pieces that you’ll wear frequently
- Focus on fit rather than trends
- Balance structured pieces with relaxed items
- Avoid over-accessorizing but do include accessories like necklaces and scarves
- Include fun patterns and pops of color that work for you. Red is always a good idea
How to Make French Style Wardrobe Essentials into Outfits
Okay, here are a few outfits I’ve worn where I felt like have a nod to French style. Some of them feel like a full French look and others just draw on inspiration from a French style wardrobe.
A Classic Button Up With Style
A classic button up is something I’ve always seen French women wear. This one is my go-to. It seriously works with everything. I love to add a fun belt and seasonal shoes to my outfit to make it feel like it’s appropriate for the time of the year. One of the keys is to make sure you aren’t overly styling your outfit, which I feel like we tend to do here in the US.
Ballet flats are always a good idea for shoes when it comes to French girl style. They’re definitely a wardrobe staple. I love this pair from Margaux and this pair from Tuckernuck. CLICK HERE to shop this outfit.
Summer wardrobe staples for French girl style
A white linen skirt or a white cotton skirt is a French wardrobe essential. These skirts are perfect to wear around a city or somewhere warm. Wear it with your ballet flats! Whether you’re heading into work in a city, going on a city vacation, or heading to the beach, a white skirt will be one of those pieces you can rely on to mix and match with just about everything. CLICK HERE to shop this outfit.
A stripe button up is also a classic French top. I feel like stripes are always popular in a French woman’s wardrobe. Here are a few other stripe tops and sweaters I love.
The French way to wear a neck scarf
A little scarf is a fun accessory that still feels understated. It always looks good with a simple t-shirt outfit like what I’m wearing below, as well as with a button up. Sezane is one of my favorite stores and a nice sales associate helped me make sure to tie my scarf the right way! The key is to loop the second piece that actually ties the knot as if you’re tying a men’s tie. This will help ensure it lays flat instead of popping up! CLICK HERE to shop this outfit.
How to Style Statement Pieces: One Fun Piece and One Classic Piece
Casual statement pieces are another thing that French women do so effortlessly. I love how they make them look so chic and polished without overdoing it. You can do this too by wearing a statement piece with classic pieces like I did in the outfit below. CLICK HERE to shop this outfit. I also love these stripe jeans with this exact outfit.
If you’re wondering what to wear to a dinner party, I love this as an option!
Linen Jacket In A Pop of Color
I recently picked up this gorgeous linen jacket for spring, summer, and the fall. It looks chic with jeans, a skirt, or even over a dress. I’m also planning to wear it with these linen-blend pants. I love how the color works across so many seasons. I purchased it with a PR voucher without any obligation to share it.
Monochrome Travel Outfit
If you’re looking for a travel outfit that feels like French style, try this black monochrome set. I wear these pieces separately too – the top looks nice with high rise denim since it’s a cropped cut, and the pants are my most worn travel pants. I also wear them all the time for errands because you can dress them up with ballet flats or wear them with a low profile sneaker like this pair.
Straight Leg Jeans
Straight leg jeans are definitely part of the French wardrobe. They feel classic French because they’re practical and tailored. I’m wearing a suede shirt jacket, but this outfit would also look so good with a trench coat. You can easily add in a pop of color or pattern with a scarf like I did. CLICK HERE to shop this outfit.
Okay, that’s all from me today. I hope you found some inspiration on how to incorporate French girl style into your wardrobe. Be sure to sign up for my newsletter below!
