September 03, 2021 at 06:18AM
Whether or not you’ve actually visited the French capital, you’re likely familiar with the archetype of the Parisian aesthetic. Marked by dishevelled hair, a classic red lip, and an effortless low-key ensemble, the French-girl look is a well-known style trope with roots in the early 1950s.
Popularised by the likes of Brigitte Bardot and Jane Birkin (a Brit with so much je ne sais quoi), French style has since been reimagined by modern-day influencers like Sabina Socol and Ellie Delphine. While classic jeans, a white tee, and a basket bag are still prevalent, the look now includes slip skirts, blazers, corduroy trousers, cable-knit cardigans, and more. Of course, the French approach to beauty and style is more pertinent than the clothes themselves. The look is low-maintenance, slightly carefree, and just “undone” enough.
We’re pleased to report that Parisian It girls still cherish the classic French style code to some degree, making it that much easier for us to spot and dissect their outfit formulas. Below, shop the chic French outfits that we believe will never go out of style, courtesy of our favourite fashion influencers.
If we could pick one article of clothing that has characterised French-girl style over the last six months, it would be the cable-knit cardigan. While the look is popular the globe over, French influencers like Sabina Socol and Anne-Laure Mais have given it the Parisian stamp of approval, pairing the style with everything from jeans and trousers to dresses and slip skirts. Mais even designed various versions of the classic cardigan for her clothing brand, Musier Paris.
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The retro statement collar has made its rounds among the fashion set thanks to brands like Miu Miu and Ganni. French influencers, such as Ellie Delphine of Slip Into Style, have embraced the look with open arms, balancing the prairie-style top with black leather and structured trousers. If the bib collar is a bit too much for you, collared polos offer a subtler take on the trend.
The slip skirt–and-mules combo took root a few years ago, and French It girls like Mais have clearly taken to it. We predict that this outfit formula will continue to stand the test of time. It’s comfortable, practical, and just dressy enough. You can now buy a slip skirt in every colour, print, and fabric imaginable, and designers like BY FAR and Staud continue to pioneer the resurgence of open-toed mule sandals.
We’re endlessly obsessed with the combo of a knit polo and jeans, especially when the key colors of the season are involved. Keep it low-key with pair of sleek boots.
This list wouldn’t be complete without a classic floral dress. A spring staple, this effortless look epitomizes thatje ne sais quoi that French style is all about—especially when paired with espadrille wedges, a woven bag, and dainty gold jewellery. Sweep your hair up into a claw clip to complete the look.
You simply can’t go wrong with head-to-toe monochrome, especially when it involves a classic white button-down. Take notes from native Parisian Claire Most, and pair a tan undershirt with white jeans and a crisp overshirt for an effortlessly chic ensemble.
Last but not least, we’ll always love a good graphic tee. The vintage-inspired look has been a wardrobe essential for the last five years or so, and French girls have paired it with everything from distressed jeans and blazers to midi skirts and heels.
Author Kelsey Clark | Whowhatwear
Selected by CWC