We don’t know how they do it but French women always manage to look uber-sophisticated and elegant no matter the outfit that they have on. Even the simplest of outfits, like the classic t-shirt and jeans, somehow look chic when worn by a French lady. Maybe it is the air in France or maybe they are just born with the natural ability to look effortlessly fashionable every single day, but we sure do want to know their style secrets!
Fortunately, there are ways for you to channel your inner French girl even if you don’t live in the country or have been genetically blessed with the French DNA. The one thing about French fashion is the addition of basics in their wardrobe, whether it be a white button-down or a pair of high-waisted jeans. This allows them to work around these staple pieces all-year round, thus maintaining the classic French style with ease.
Wondering what kind of basics do French women always have in their wardrobe? Read on to find out more.
Striped T-Shirt or Sweater
Of course, we can’t talk about French fashion without mentioning a striped top. Whether it be a t-shirt or sweater, a striped top is a must in every French woman’s wardrobe. There are so many ways to style this versatile garment. Tuck it into a pair of high-waisted wide-leg jeans, throw on some ankle boots and finish off your outfit with a beret and you will be channelling your inner Françoise Hardy.
For a casual dinner with the girls, wear your striped tee with a pleated midi skirt and put on a pair of Oxford shoes to add a touch of boyishness to your look. Want to put together a no-fuss outfit for the office? Simply wear your t-shirt with a pair of slim-leg trousers and throw on a fitted blazer and heels for an easy girlboss look.
White Button-Down
This classic piece of garment is one that will go with practically everything else in your wardrobe, easily taking you from the office to a dinner date with your significant other. For a sleek and elegant work outfit beyond shirt and trousers, pair your button-down with a pencil midi skirt instead. Complete your look with stilettos as well as minimal makeup for a natural and fresh appearance. If you want to take this outfit for an evening out, simply switch out your stilettos with a pair of kitten heels or even ballet flats for a slightly more casual look.
A white button-down can be dressed down by pairing it with jeans too. Whether worn tucked in or out, this casual get-up will lend you a relaxed vibe without veering into the lazy territory. To look more put together, complete your look with a pair of Oxford shoes or brogues rather than flats or sneakers.
Blazer
If there is one outerwear you need to channel your inner French girl, it is definitely the blazer. Once only deemed appropriate for the office, blazers have enjoyed a resurgence in the fashion industry as a garment that belongs in almost any occasion. Whether you wear it to work, a party or dinner with your friends, a blazer will provide you with a polished look easily.
Got an evening party coming up and don’t wish to don a dress? Wear a t-shirt tucked into a pair of high-waisted, wide-leg trousers and layer an oversized blazer over, cinching it at the waist with a belt to give you an hourglass figure. Finish your outfit with a pair of heels and put on a red lip to achieve the ultimate classic French beauty look.
Blazers are also great to wear on casual Fridays at the office as you will still maintain a professional appearance without going into the too casual territory. If you have a t-shirt and jeans on, simply throw on a blazer and you are good to go.
High-Waisted Jeans
No classic French outfit is complete without a pair of high-waisted jeans. When worn with a t-shirt or sweater, like what we mentioned above, and complete with a red lip, you will look like you completely belong in the streets of Paris.
Nailing the French look is possible with whichever type of style of high-waisted jeans you go for too. To rock a pair of mom jeans, wear it with either a t-shirt or a fitted long-sleeved shirt (opt for a turtleneck for a truly French ensemble). If you have a pair of wide-leg jeans, tuck in a shirt and throw a long-length blazer over it and finish off your look with a pair of ankle-heeled boots.
Ballet Flats
French women love their ballet flats, and for good reason. They are not only comfortable but also goes with absolutely everything in your wardrobe. Plus, ballet flats add a touch of femininity to your look, making them great accessories to balance out a masculine outfit. Let’s say you have a t-shirt and jeans on with a leather jacket layered over — simply put on a pair of ballet flats to sweeten up your entire look.
Or if you want to dress down a fancy outfit, a pair of neutral-coloured ballet flats will do the trick. For a truly girly outfit, put on a baby doll dress, put your hair up in a high ponytail and top off your look with ballet flats.