A French Woman Walks Into H&M—8 Effortless Items She'd Buy and 8 She'd Skip

If you love French style and shopping at an affordable price point, then you’ve come to the right place! I’m a French woman at heart, especially when it comes to my style choices. I’m forever on the lookout for fresh pieces that embody that nonchalant yet polished aesthetic the French do so well.

So if effortlessly cool French style is what you’re looking for this season, and you don’t want to spend a fortune on a fresh wardrobe, then it’s worth taking a peek at H&M right now. From chic tank tops to straight-leg jeans and sleek skirts, the affordable brand has a host of classic yet trend-forward finds ideal for the current weather.

Keep scrolling for our guide to what our Parisian fashion friends are likely to buy from H&M and the items they would likely say “non, merci” to.

French women rely on chic and easy tank tops once the warm weather rolls around. Skip the over-the-top party tops and pair an elevated tank with jeans and midi skirts instead.  

Simple yet effective. 

Add a point of difference to all your other vests. 

Incredibly affordable. 

If there’s one item stylish French women wear year-round, it’s a relaxed and effortless button-down shirt. Set the tunics aside and opt for a button-down in white, blue, or stripes for the utmost versatility. 

I often turn to H&M for great, affordable shirts

So many great outfits call for a white shirt. 

This looks so much more expensive than it is. 

Jeans are a staple for French women, and you’ll always find a ’90s-inspired high-waisted straight-leg silhouette in their wardrobe. Bypass the super-skinny styles and go for a more relaxed cut.

The raw hem is a nice touch. 

This pair strikes the balance of straight yet relaxed in an ideal way. 

This particular wash is a personal favourite of mine. 

For wandering around Paris, flat shoes are a must and we’ve noticed our French friends are partial to a pair of classic loafers. The versatile shoe can be styled with dresses, tailoring and jeans alike, and H&M has a ton to choose from right now.

This simple style will serve your looks for years to come. 

I did a double take at this pair. 

The white and black contrast adds a fresh edge. 

For summer it’s all about the basket bag, but come autumn these are put away for their classic counterparts: the shoulder bag. Classic designs with room for the essential are a go-to. 

I still can’t believe this is from the high street. 

This went straight in my basket. 

The buckle details add a 90’s touch. 

Sleek and elegant. This season, opt for streamlined slip skirts, maxi silhouettes, or minis that will transition seamlessly from day to night.

The white hue looks so luxe. 

The pinstripe fabric feels so directional. 

Knit skirts come into their own for autumn. 

When it comes to dresses, skip flouncy baby-doll silhouettes and opt for a sleek slip silhouette instead. Whether it’s a colour-blocked style or a pretty floral print, they’re easy to pair with heels and flats and will take you from day to night in a pinch.

Navy is just as timeless as black.

Add a knit and knee-high boots for an autumnal take. 

With trainers or heels, this dress can go anywhere. 

Yes, it’s true. French women love stripes. They generally favour striped tops and sweaters more than tie-dye or geometric designs. Simply add a pair of high-waisted jeans, a belt, and ballet flats, and you have one chic-looking outfit for spring and summer.

The best of both worlds, the striped vest. 

I’m a big fan of the flute sleeves. 

There’s something about the mole hue that makes this jumper feel so premium. 

This story originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S. and has since been updated.

Next Up: I’m a Stylist—This Simple Buy Is Always My Most Worn Summer Item