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 the transition months and beyond.
Style Notes: Winter is fast approaching, 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.
A grey jumper is the ultimate classic.
We’re seeing so many chic maxi skirts out there right now, but this COS style might just be our favourite.
The perfect black shoulder bag.
The boot of the moment. Just look at the curved heels.
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.
This whole look feels so French.
A classic black bag will serve you well for years to come.
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 boxy shape of this long-sleeved sweater.
I love to opt for navy tones when black just feels a bit too heavy.
This Arket 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.
This is a great example of how minimal details can make a piece more polished.
A perfectly matched pair.
This pop of colour will offset the deep denim.
White shoes make every outfit more fashion-forward.
Style Notes: French woman master transition dressing. Case in point — Adenorah’s look. Pair relaxed shirts with fluted skirts and mules. It’s the perfect mix of dressed up and casual. Simply add a wool coat when it’s cold for extra cosiness.
The perfect slouched fit. Wear it either buttoned or open.
A denim skirt is a good option while it’s too cold for linens or cottons.
This bag will never go out of style.
Classic mules are a lifelong investment.
Style Notes: You don’t need much to make a slip dress look great. Just add mules and a cute bag. For winter, layer a chunky cardigan or blazer on top.
A piece you’ll have forever.
Wear these mules in the evening as we transition seasons.
Instantly elevate any look with a shoulder bag.
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 outfit.
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 couple of months.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
