We talk a lot about French style. But it’s understandable when French women appear to dress so well. With Instagram, we’ve been able to see easily the kinds of outfits that these women go back to over and over. So why wouldn’t we take a moment to do a deep dive into the timeless French outfits we always spot? Think of this as your ultimate guide to French dressing and the outfits French women love.
Below, I’ve found eight classic ensembles that I always spot. Whether it’s a trench coat styled with knee-high boots or a pair of jeans, a white tee and a blazer, there are just some outfits that French women will never stop wearing. Keep scrolling for the looks that will take you through winter, into 2023 and beyond.
Style Notes: It’s winter and getting colder, and Parisians are bona fide experts in layering. Keep it classic with a beige trench coat and knee-high boots.
Trench coats are about as classically French as it gets.
This wool skirt teamed with opaque tights? You’ll beat the chill in no time.
The boot of the moment.
Style Notes: One of my personal favourites, this outfit looks best when the cardigan skims the top of your trousers. Très chic.
The perfect crop to pair with high-waisted trousers.
H&M does the best-tailored separates if you don’t want to splurge.
As good as new.
Style Notes: The Breton is of course a French classic. It might seem a little cliché, but the striped top or jumper never fails to look jolie. Add to a long skirt or jeans for the full French look.
I adore the scoop neck of this long-sleeved top.
Maxi hemlines are big right now.
This Mango bag looks so premium.
Style Notes: A perhaps surprising contender, double denim is absolutely a timeless French outfit. Look to styles in similar washes to ensure it’s as cool as possible.
I’m always drawn to topstitching—this is a great example of how it can elevate denim.
A ’70s dream.
White shoes make every outfit more polished.
Style Notes: Not only are shearling jackets super warm, but they also come French girl-approved. Wear yours with a relaxed ensemble for maximum cosiness.
You might have missed out on Mango’s bestselling shearling jacket, but this alternative is just as chic.
Easy to dress up or down.
It’s never too late to pick up a pair of these classic kicks.
Style Notes: You don’t need much to make a figure-hugging dress look great. Just add two-tone pumps and a cute bag.
Your Friday night drinks outfit, sorted.
For that price, how can you resist?
Style Notes: The ultimate everyday French outfit has to be a plain white T-shirt under a blazer with jeans.
I’ll take the entire suit.
This is the only white tee you’ll need.
This fit looks ultra flattering.
Style Notes: Ever since Jane Birkin wore her iteration of this look, we’ve been hooked and have seen practically every French influencer wearing this outfit.
So romantic.
I own a pair of Ribcage jeans and can vouch for how versatile and longlasting they are.
Prepare to live in these boots for the next few months.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
