Whether or not you’ve actually visited the French capital, you’re likely familiar with the Parisian aesthetic. Marked by messy bangs, a classic red lip, and an effortless wrap dress, the “French-girl” look is a well-known style trope with roots in the early 1950s.
Popularized by the likes of Brigitte Bardot and Jane Birkin, French style has since been reimagined by modern-day It girls like Sabina Socol and Jeanne Damas. While classic jeans, a white tee, and a basket bag are still prevalent, the look now includes slip skirts, blazers, corduroy trousers, cable-knit cardigans, and more. Of course, the French approach to beauty and style is more pertinent than the clothes themselves. The look is low-maintenance, slightly carefree, and just “undone” enough.
We’re pleased to report that Parisian It girls still cherish the classic French style code to some degree, making it that much easier for us to spot and dissect their outfit formulas. Below, shop the chic French outfits that will never go out of style, courtesy of our favorite fashion influencers.
CHUNKY CARDIGANS
Photo:
@sabinasocol
If we could pick one article of clothing that characterized French-girl style over the last six months, it would be the cable-knit cardigan. While the look is popular stateside, French influencers like Sabina Socol and Anne-Laure Mais have given it their Parisian stamp of approval, pairing the style with everything from jeans and trousers to dresses and slip skirts. Mais even designed various versions of the classic cardigan for her clothing brand, Musier Paris.
STATEMENT COLLARS
Photo:
@slipintostyle
The retro statement collar has made its rounds among the fashion set thanks to brands like Miu Miu and Ganni. French influencers, such as Ellie Delphine of Slip Into Style, have embraced the look with open arms, balancing the prairie-style top with black leather and structured trousers. If the bib collar is a bit too much for you, collared polos offer a subtler take on the trend.
SLIP SKIRT + MULES
Photo:
@annelauremais
The slip skirt–and-mules combo took root a few years ago, and French It girls like Mais have clearly taken to it. We predict that this outfit formula will continue to stand the test of time. It’s comfortable, practical, and just dressy enough. You can now buy a slip skirt in every color, print, and fabric imaginable, and designers like By Far and Staud continue to pioneer the resurgence of open-toed mule sandals.
GOING-OUT TOP + JEANS
Photo:
@camillecharriere
The French fashion set has perfected the casual going-out look in the form of jeans and a trendy top. From puff-sleeve organza crops to Insta-famous Reformation frocks in every cut and color, a flattering going-out top could be considered a Parisian style essential. Pair your chosen look with a classic pair of light-wash Levi’s and strappy sandals. You literally can’t go wrong.
CLASSIC BUTTON-DOWN + WIDE-LEG PANTS
Photo:
@lenafarl
There’s nothing more classic than a menswear-inspired button-down shirt, so of course, it’s a French style staple. Whether you opt for a crisp white or a trendy leopard print, take notes from Parisian influencer Léna Farl and pair the look with wide-leg jeans or structured trousers, dainty jewelry, and cat-eye sunglasses.
KNIT POLO + JEANS
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We’re endlessly obsessed with the combo of a knit polo and jeans, especially when the key colors of the season are involved. Keep it low-key with pair of sleek boots.
THE CLASSIC FLORAL DRESS
Photo:
@tamaramory
This list wouldn’t be complete without a classic floral dress. A spring staple, this effortless look epitomizes that je ne sais quoi that French style is all about, especially when paired with espadrille wedges, a woven bag, and dainty gold jewelry. Sweep your hair up into a claw clip to complete the look.
BLAZER + MINIDRESS
Photo:
@sabinasocol
Blazers have long been a part of the French-girl style quotient, and Parisian influencers like Sabina Socol have successfully repurposed the look for 2020. Opt for a classic herringbone pattern to play up the vintage feel, and pair your blazer with low-heeled slides, messy hair, and a high-neck minidress of a similar length.
HEAD-TO-TOE TONAL
Photo:
@claire_most
You simply can’t go wrong with head-to-toe monochrome, especially when it involves a classic white button-down. Take notes from native Parisian Claire Most, and pair a tan undershirt with white jeans and a crisp overshirt for an effortlessly chic ensemble.
VINTAGE-INSPIRED GRAPHIC TEES
Photo:
@salome.morgy
Last but not least, we’ll always love a good graphic tee. The vintage-inspired look has been a wardrobe essential for the last five years or so, and French girls have paired it with everything from distressed jeans and blazers to midi skirts and heels.
Next up: six French-girl spring outfits that are “basic” but fashion-forward.
This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.