Do you love fashion? Are you a fan of French style? If so, you’ll want to check out our guide to the must-haves in French fashion for women. From classic pieces that have stood the test of time to modern trends that you won’t want to miss, we’ve rounded up the top picks for any fashion-forward woman. Keep reading to discover the staples of French fashion that every stylish woman needs in her wardrobe.
The French Fashion Style
When it comes to fashion, the French have always been known for their impeccable style. French fashion style for women is best described as effortlessly chic and sophisticated. They prefer timeless pieces that are well-tailored and made from high-quality fabrics. The French are not known for following trends but instead prioritize classic, versatile items that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits.
The Classic Trench Coat
A classic trench coat is a must-have item in any French woman’s closet. This versatile piece can be dressed up or down and adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Look for a trench coat made from a durable fabric like cotton or gabardine with a flattering cut. Opt for classic colors like beige, navy, or black.
The Perfect Pair of Jeans
Jeans are a staple in every woman’s wardrobe, and French women are no exception. However, the French prefer classic, high-quality jeans over trendy, low-quality options. Look for jeans that fit well and are made from a durable fabric like denim or corduroy. Dark washes are a popular choice, as they can be dressed up for a night out or dressed down for a casual afternoon.
The Little Black Dress
No wardrobe would be complete without a Little Black Dress (LBD), and French women know this all too well. The LBD is a timeless piece that can be worn to any occasion, dressed up or down. Look for a simple, classic cut that flatters your figure and can be easily accessorized. The French prefer high quality fabrics like silk or wool for their LBDs.
- Pro tip: Accessorize your LBD with a statement necklace or a pair of heels to dress it up for a night out.
The Ballet Flats
French women are known for their love of ballet flats, and for a good reason. These shoes are comfortable, stylish, and versatile, making them the perfect addition to any outfit. Look for flats made from high-quality leather in classic colors like black, beige, or navy.
French Style Must-Haves
French style has become the epitome of effortless chic. It’s a look that is both classic and modern, relaxed yet put-together. Every French woman’s wardrobe must have a classic trench coat, ankle boots, a Breton stripe shirt, and a little black dress. Let’s take a closer look at these French style must-haves.
Classic Trench Coat
A classic trench coat is a staple in every French woman’s wardrobe. It’s a timeless piece that never goes out of style and can be worn year-round. Look for a trench coat in a neutral color like beige or navy, with classic details like a double-breasted front, belted waist, and shoulder epaulets. The trench coat should also hit just above the knee to flatter any body shape.
A trench coat is perfect for dressing up or down. Wear it over a little black dress and heels for a night out, or pair it with jeans and ankle boots for a more casual look.
Ankle Boots
Ankle boots are another French style must-have. They are versatile and can be worn with anything from jeans to dresses. Look for a pair in a classic color like black or brown, with a low heel for comfort. The ankle boots should hit at the ankle to elongate the legs.
For a chic look, pair ankle boots with skinny jeans and a trench coat. Or wear them with a skirt or dress for a feminine touch.
Breton Stripe Shirt
The Breton stripe shirt is a classic French staple. It was originally worn by sailors in Brittany, France, and was later made popular by style icons like Coco Chanel. Look for a Breton stripe shirt in navy and white, with horizontal stripes and a boat neck. The shirt should be fitted, but not too tight.
For a classic look, pair a Breton stripe shirt with high-waisted pants and a blazer. Or wear it with jeans and ankle boots for a more relaxed look.
Little Black Dress
Finally, no French woman’s wardrobe is complete without a little black dress. It’s a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, and worn to any occasion. Look for a dress that flatters your body shape, with a classic silhouette and timeless details.
A little black dress is perfect for a night out, paired with heels and a clutch. Or wear it with ankle boots and a blazer for a more casual look.
Fabrics and Materials
French fashion is known for its elegant and timeless style. The French have an eye for detail and quality, and their fashion sense reflects this. One of the key elements of French fashion is their choice of fabrics and materials. To achieve the French fashion look, you should opt for high-quality natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, silk, and wool. These fabrics not only look elegant but also feel comfortable on your skin. They are durable and will last longer than synthetic fabrics.
The Importance of High-Quality Fabrics
High-quality fabrics are an essential part of French fashion. French designers believe that clothing is an investment and should last for years, not just a season. They choose fabrics that are natural, breathable, and comfortable to wear. Natural fibers like cotton, linen, silk, and wool are preferred for their durability and ability to age beautifully. They are often blended to create a unique texture and quality.
- Cotton – Cotton is a popular fabric choice due to its softness and durability. It is breathable, easy to care for, and comes in a variety of textures and weights.
- Linen – Linen is a lightweight fabric that is perfect for hot weather. It has a relaxed and casual look, and it can be dressed up or down.
- Silk – Silk is a luxurious fabric that drapes well and has a glossy finish. It is often used for evening wear and dresses.
The Versatility of Wool
Wool is another natural fabric that is highly valued in French fashion. It is incredibly versatile and can be worn in all seasons. It has natural insulating properties that keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Wool comes in a variety of weights and textures, and it can be used for suits, jackets, and coats.
Accessories
In French fashion, accessories are just as important as clothing. French women have a way of making even the simplest accessory look chic and sophisticated. They often opt for simple, timeless pieces that complement their outfits rather than overpower them. Here are some must-have accessories for any French woman:
Silk Scarf
A silk scarf is a classic French accessory that every French woman owns. It can be worn in countless ways – tied around the neck, worn as a headband, or tied onto a handbag. A silk scarf adds instant elegance to any outfit.
Leather Handbag
A leather handbag is a staple in any French woman’s wardrobe. French women often invest in high-quality handbags that they can use for years to come. Look for a simple, stylish design that can be dressed up or down.
Ballet Flats
Ballet flats are a comfortable and stylish shoe option for any French woman. They can be worn with dresses, jeans, and everything in between. Look for a pair made of soft leather that will mold to your feet over time.
Beret
A beret is a traditional French hat that has become a fashion statement in recent years. It adds a touch of whimsy to any outfit and is perfect for those bad hair days. Look for a wool beret in a neutral color like black or grey.
The French Hair and Makeup Look
French beauty is famous for its effortless elegance. French women are known to keep their makeup minimal and focus on healthy, glowing skin and natural hair. Here are some tips to achieve the French hair and makeup look:
The French Skin Care Routine
The French approach to skincare is all about taking good care of your skin. They believe that a good skincare routine should start with cleansing and moisturizing. French women prefer to use gentle, natural skincare products that nourish their skin without causing any harm. Here are some tips to achieve the French skincare routine:
- Use a gentle cleanser to remove impurities and makeup.
- Apply a facial oil to moisturize and nourish your skin.
- Use a tinted moisturizer or BB cream for light coverage.
- Apply a natural lip balm to keep your lips hydrated and soft.
The French Minimal Makeup Look
The French love a minimal, natural makeup look. French women prefer to enhance their natural beauty rather than cover it up with heavy makeup. Here are some tips to achieve the French minimal makeup look:
- Invest in a good quality concealer to cover any blemishes or dark circles.
- Apply a light coat of mascara to define your lashes.
- Add a touch of color to your cheeks with a cream blush.
- Finish the look with a lip balm or tinted lip gloss.
The French Effortless Hair Look
The French hair look is all about effortless, natural hair. French women prefer to keep their hair simple and chic. Here are some tips to achieve the French effortless hair look:
- Air-dry your hair instead of using a blow dryer to avoid heat damage.
- Use a natural bristle brush to detangle and smooth your hair.
- Add some texture and volume to your hair with a salt spray or dry shampoo.
- Create a low-maintenance hairstyle, such as a messy bun or a loose braid.
Remember, the key to achieving the French hair and makeup look is to keep it simple and natural. Embrace your natural beauty and enhance it with minimal makeup and effortless hair.
Where to Shop French Fashion Looks
If you’re looking to achieve that effortless French fashion look, then you need to shop at the right places. French style is all about being chic and understated, mixing high-end pieces with more affordable items to create a one-of-a-kind look. Here are some of the best places to shop for French fashion looks.
High-End French Brands
If you have the budget for it, then shopping at high-end French brands is the ultimate way to achieve that French fashion look. Brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Isabel Marant are renowned for their timeless pieces and luxurious materials, which are perfect for creating a chic and sophisticated wardrobe. While these designer pieces do come with a hefty price tag, they are worth investing in as they are classic pieces that will last a lifetime.
French-Inspired Brands
If you don’t have the budget for designer pieces, then shopping at French-inspired brands is a great way to achieve that French fashion look without breaking the bank. Brands like Sézane and Rouje are known for their vintage-inspired pieces, romantic prints, and feminine silhouettes, which are perfect for creating a chic and effortless French wardrobe. The best part? These brands are often more affordable than high-end designer brands, which means that you can invest in more pieces to create a versatile and timeless wardrobe.
Boutiques and Vintage Shops
Another great way to achieve that trendy French style is to shop at small boutiques and vintage shops. These stores often stock unique pieces that you won’t find anywhere else, and the owners are usually experts in French fashion, meaning that they can help you find the perfect pieces to build your French wardrobe. Shopping at these stores is also a great way to support local businesses, which is always a good thing!
Online Shopping
If you don’t have access to French brands or boutiques in your area, then online shopping is another great option. There are plenty of online stores that specialize in French fashion, and many of them ship worldwide. Some good options include The Frankie Shop, Net-a-Porter, and Farfetch. When shopping online, be sure to pay attention to sizing, as European sizing can be different from American sizing.
Second-Hand Stores
If you’re on a tight budget but still want to achieve that French fashion look, then shopping at second-hand stores is a great option. You never know what you might find at a thrift store or consignment shop, and you might score some amazing French designer pieces at a fraction of the price. Plus, shopping second-hand is also a sustainable and eco-friendly way to shop, which is always a good thing.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| What are some French fashion must-haves for women? | Some French fashion must-haves for women include striped tops, trench coats, ballet flats, and high-waisted jeans. |
| Are French clothing brands expensive? | Some French clothing brands can be expensive, but there are also affordable options available. It all depends on the specific brand and item. |
| Can I wear a beret as part of a French-inspired outfit? | Yes, a beret can be a great accessory to add to a French-inspired outfit. Just make sure to pair it with the right pieces to avoid looking over-the-top. |
| What’s the best way to style a French-inspired outfit? | The best way to style a French-inspired outfit is to keep it simple and classic. Stick to neutral colors, clean lines, and quality fabrics. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different pieces to create a unique look. |
| Can I wear sneakers with a French-inspired outfit? | Yes, you can definitely wear sneakers with a French-inspired outfit. Just make sure to choose a style that complements the rest of your outfit and doesn’t stand out too much. |
| Where can I buy French fashion pieces? | You can buy French fashion pieces from a variety of retailers, both online and in-store. Some popular options include French clothing brands themselves, as well as department stores and online marketplaces. |
Thank You for Reading!
We hope you found some inspiration for your next French-inspired outfit! Remember, French fashion is all about simplicity and quality, so choose pieces that feel timeless and well-made. Make sure to visit our website again later for more fashion tips and inspiration!
