French girl fashion has long been the epitome of chic. From Brigitte Bardot to Catherine Deneuve to Betty Catroux, that insouciant quality seemingly ingrained in all Parisiennes has been the pinnacle for any fashion lover worldwide. And while a lot of it comes down to a nonchalant attitude, there is a sort of uniform all French fashion devotees adhere to.
What are traditional French clothes?
When we think of French fashion, visions of berets, blazers and Breton stripe tops pop into our heads. And while they’re definitely in the mix, there’s a lot more that goes into a French chic wardrobe. First, you have to turn a blind eye to trends because true Parisiennes favor a signature look over fluctuations on the runways. You also need to invest in staples like quality jeans and a classic trench. And resist the urge to pile on accessories.
What is a Parisian look?
While French fashion really isn’t a one-style-fits-all concept, there are certain pieces you need to have in heavy rotation. Think loafers with suits or blazers with jeans and ballerina flats. You’ll also need to streamline your beauty routine to only include red lips and a messy bedhead hairstyle for true French chic vibes.
If you’re ready to show off your Gallic side, get ready to take notes as we break down the 13 keys to nailing French fashion like a native.
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French Girl Fashion
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Ignore Trends
Sure, cardigans and animal print footwear are both popular right now, but a Parisienne already has both in her closet.
Image: @camillecharriere
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A Breton Stripe Shirt Is Still a Classic
Still a French fashion staple, the Breton stripe top received a modern upgrade from the latest batch of French fashion influencers. Follow their lead by turning it into a quintessential layering piece and don’t be afraid to pair it with other patterns.
Image: @louisefollain
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Invest in a Good Pair of Jeans
Don't just buy a trendy pair of jeans from a fast fashion shop. Instead, spend some dough on denim that will go the distance. Quality jeans that you can wear with everything in your closet are a French fashion must-have.
Image: @sabinasocol
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Graphic Tees FTW
A key element in French fashion, a statement tee is perfect for sporting with those wear-with-anything jeans, skirts or as part of a suit.
Image: @slipintostyle
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Give Those High Heels a Rest
French chic footwear is all about comfort. Instead of sky-high stilettos, slip on some ballerina flats or black loafers to head to work or run errands.
Image: @audesarkamari
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Embrace Old-School Trenches
Trenches have proven popular street style fare lately, but French girls have been sporting them for eons. Skip the overly complex versions in favor of a classic silhouette.
Image: @aymelinevalade
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Keep Jewelry to a Minimum
You won’t see French fashion girls layering necklaces or flaunting oversized hoops or other statement earrings. Opt for one subtle piece of jewelry that has sentimental value.
Image: @monicaainleydlv
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Red Lipstick Is the Only Makeup You Need
All French fashion lovers need on the makeup front is a bright red lip. It goes with everything and still makes a statement.
Image: @syanafromparis
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Wear a Tux When Everyone Else Is Wearing a Dress
French fashion formalwear doesn’t involve a red carpet-worthy gown. Yves Saint Laurent’s legendary Le Smoking tux is alive and well in Paris, so suit up before heading out for a night on the town.
Image: @jeannedamas
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Keep It in Neutral
Millennial pink. Gen Z yellow. Lavender. Neo Mint. These shades have been all over runways, but being French chic means going with a neutral palette. Pick up pieces in white, black, tan or brown and you’ll have a wardrobe that’ll look cool no matter what color is trending.
Image: @adenorah
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Have a Tailor on Standby
Outsize blazers may be fashion-forward in the rest of the world, but the French chic way to rock a blazer is to have it tailored for a superior fit.
Image: @violette_fr
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A Red Floral Dress Is a Summer Necessity
When the weather warms back up, you need to have a red floral sundress in your French fashion repertoire. Just throw in some sandals and a basket bag and you’ll be set for summer.
Image: @ariadibari
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Woke Up Like This Locks
Embrace the tousled bedhead look you usually rock first thing in the morning. A lot of Parisiennes don’t wash their locks on the daily so just get up, pat it down a bit and go.
Image: @loudoillon
