As Who What Wear’s resident French style expert, I take the responsibility of showing you what Gallic girls are wearing very seriously. There are a lot of stereotypes surrounding French style, most of which are completely outdated, but there are some that actually hold true. I’m here to help you decipher all-things French style. Today’s curriculum? Blazers.
Of course, the French aren’t the only people who wear blazers—they’re pretty integral to the British aesthetic, too, for example—but, in the 10+ years I’ve been analysing outfits from across the channel, it’s clear French women have a genuine appreciation for blazers.
So, how to French women style blazers? I’ve found seven chic outfit examples which I think showcase this and attest to the blazer’s versatility and timelessness. Scroll on to see them.
Style Notes: It might be something of a French style cliché but Parisians genuinely wear Breton tops on the regular, particularly with retro-cut jeans and blazers.
Style Notes: Blazers can help dress up anything, from jeans to leggings. In terms of dresses, I see lots of French women using theirs to elevate knitted midis.
Style Notes: Monochrome dressing—wearing one shade top-to-toe—is a styling trick favoured by French women. Aida’s beige blazer, creamy trousers, and blush shoes, are the perfect example of this.
Style Notes: Blazers and midi skirts might not seem like the most obvious pairing, but Anne-Victoire proves the duo can look incredibly chic. I like how she’s matched the shade of her navy blazer to her skirt, then has added chunky boots for edge.
Style Notes: French women always see potential in retro trends, which is one of the reasons they love corduroy separates so much. Blazers are one of the easiest ways to wear the fabrication; make like Julie and style a rich green shade with tones of brown, camel or burgundy for more retro fashion appeal.
Style Notes: French women are adept at merging their summer and winter wardrobes together, as evidenced by Estelle. Her blazer and denim short pairing looks so cool with tights and ballet flats (another style cliché French women actually subscribe to).
Style Notes: I would never encourage frivolous spending but I do see the benefit in investing in matching sets; Anne-Laure’s sleek suit, which she wears with a staple roll-neck knit, looks incredible together, but the pieces will work just as well styled separately, too.
