Although the allure of French style spans all seasons, regions and decades, no one excels at effortless styling for warm weather quite like French women. Laid back, subtle and bearing the essence of the no-make-up look (but for clothing), every element is intentional but quietly so. They create and model some of the most sought-after dress styles that are celebrated across the globe.
French women’s dress style exceeds the floral print, wrap and tea dresses that are commonly associated with Parisian women. In recent years, they’ve inherited noughties-inspired pieces and made them a permanent fixture. French women are typically fashion-forward and accustomed to a trend or two but when they do, they adopt them for a lifetime and are admirably discerning about their acquirements. Take Y2K, its reformed eveningwear and the svelte shapes have a distinctive French characteristic, which makes the style slot seamless into a French women’s capsule. French women are also often seen donning risqué fabrications, long silhouettes, full-sleeved bias cuts and of course, minis thrown in for good measure. It was the stomping ground of style maven Bridget Bardot, after all.
There are several style notes I’ve made whilst studying fashion types in Paris. There’s a prevalence of pointelle, on-the-knee garments and downplaying floral motifs. Bloom-adorned clothing which would otherwise be destined for weddings are worn daily with trainers and down-to-earth ballerinas, loaning it a laid-back appeal. Other non-traditional styles are made wearable with worn-in denim and hardened materials, like leather. Like many, I’m enamoured by the effortless appeal of French women’s style. Keep scrolling for five easy-to-wear French girl-inspired summer dress outfits I’ll be wearing this season.
There’s an effortless appeal to this outfit. Although the fabrication is detailed the oversized shirt and flat shoes make it a piece you can wear during the day. Remove the outer layer as the weather starts to warm up.
French women wear knitted dresses and maxis year round. They can be worn at home, for day events and events alike. Simply add your footwear of choice.
Classic slip dresses are integral to the French aesthetic, especially when worn minimally.
French women are adept at giving dresses a low-key spin, which often involves styling them with classic trainers.
This trend lead piece is a forever staple in a French women’s wardrobe. I’m particularly fond of the relaxed utility-inspired style.
Pair this with a slip for just the right amount of sheerness for the beach-to-town transition.
A practical piece you’ll keep forever.
Rouje makes The Sac du Jour trend as practical as it is beautiful with this ochre hue.
French women adore Creole-style hoops.
Slingbacks and mules are synonymous with French style. The Landis Mule is available in both open and closed-toe variations, so there’s something to appease both tastes.
The Harry Styles effect is still taking effect. For day-to-day, I prefer my rosette a little more subtle.
It might not be a French name but Realisation Par has honed in on the French girl aesthetic. Embrace the sheerness or add a slip underneath, either way, it’s chic.
Drop pearls are part of my uniform.
Rooper bags are a match for all occasions. Whether you’re looking for a wedding pouch, a guest accessory or a date-night bag.
It wouldn’t be a French edit without a pair of ballerina flats. Porte & Paire is most loved by our readers.
Wear a slip dress with anything from trainers to mules. French women don this style with worn-in jackets and vintage leather, alike. It has an ageless and effortless appeal.
A little bit of sheen for every day.
The Toast x Cubitts collaboration is crafted from cellulose chips that would otherwise go to a landfill. The waste materials are compressed and reworked making the suavest sunglasses.
There’s a French lilt to Mashu bags that’s undeniable. From the fabric outer to the vintage clasp, they’re an investment you’ll be glad you made decades on as they never date.
Each season, I scour the web looking for slip-on mules that bridges the gap between the high street and design. When it comes to quality, COS footwear is undefeated and bears a resemblance to its much pricier counterparts.
French women appreciate small style details. The collar, frilled sleeve and embroidery on this dress really make it something special.
These charming jewels will elevate the simplest of looks.
My Dragon Diffusion bag is one of my best wardrobe investments because of how much I wear it. Moving forward, I’ll invest in styles with a carved-out shoulder nook. It looks like premium comfort.
Don’t sleep on St Agni footwear, especially when it matches the exact hue of your handbag.
The sweetest linen-blend tea dress with delicate lace trim and deep-seated v-neck.
Substantial and high-quality hoops with just the right amount of weight.
Each summer Loewe dominates basket bag edits for good reason.
Although I’m not a trainer girl, I adore Supergas.
