I may as well have a PhD in French girl dressing, considering the amount I write and research on the topic for Who What Wear. What can I say? I’m a French girl at heart and I’m obsessed with their nonchalant, effortlessly chic aesthetic.
As you well know by now, French women have the uncanny ability to look polished and put together in a way that doesn’t look like they tried too hard. Their outfits are often comprised of chic and elevated basics—styled in simple and effortless ways. Today I wanted to share 10 chic staples I’m seeing French women wearing on repeat this summer. And the best part? Getting that French-girl summer look doesn’t need to cost a fortune. In fact, I found every cool basic for under $75 at H&M. From chic tank tops to slip dresses—take a peek below if you’re vibe is French-girl summer.
French women rely on chic and easy tank tops once the warm weather rolls around—which they style with everything from midi skirts to jeans.
When Parisians aren’t wearing jeans, relaxed tailored trousers is one of their go-to styles to pair with tank tops and button-downs. Style with a classic belt for a more polished look.
A printed summer dress remains a staple in a French woman’s warm-weather wardrobe. Whether you go for a slip silhouette, or a vintage-inspired style, it’s one of the easiest options to throw on this summer.
Jeans are basically second skin to the French. You’ll always find a ’90s-inspired, straight-leg silhouette in their wardrobe.
If there’s one item stylish French women wear year-round, it’s a relaxed and effortless button-down shirt. Opt for one in white, blue, or stripes for the utmost versatility.
To be honest, French women are partial to all different lengths of skirts from sleek slip midi skirts to denim maxi skirts, but mini skirts have got to be the style I’m seeing on repeat this summer—styled with everything from casual tees to polished vests.
Is it even summer in France without an easy pair of espadrilles? Whether you go for wedges or flats, they’re so easy to wear with dresses, skirts, shorts, and breezy pants alike.
A timeless basic that will never go out of style for the French fashion set is a vintage-inspired pair of denim shorts. Add a touch of polish to the look and style with elevated pieces such as a chic button-down and ballet flats.
From raffia bags to straw totes, there is no denying the French fashion set’s love for bags made from natural materials. It adds the perfect laissez-faire summer touch to any look.
The most versatile piece to pair with sandals or wedges—a sleek minimalist dress always looks effortlessly chic.
