French style is not a difficult style to pull off and is not entirely unattainable. It is something effortless, classic, nonchalant, and cool but not arrogant. French style is all about finding the right balance between looking dressed up and laid-back at the same time.
It’s not being obsessed with wearing bold shades, extravagant items, bright colors, and expensive pieces. Instead, French style is all about choosing great fabrics, and high-quality, timeless, and versatile items that work well together. This style lies in how clothes are mixed together and the little things that make the difference. If you’ve noticed, the French are never overdone or overdressed. They know exactly how to keep their overall look simple and clean.
Here are the best French wardrobe basics to add to your closet to have a wardrobe full of classic, timeless looks. A French wardrobe is a collection of versatile, high-quality basic items, that stand the test of passing fads and seasons.
1. Button-Down Shirt
One of the first basics of the French wardrobe is a button-down shirt. Whether oversized, well-fitted, in cotton or silk, white, blue, or striped, a button-down shirt is definitely a French wardrobe staple. French women love its versatility! For a polished office look, pair it with straight-leg/flare jeans, a pair of white sneakers, and a designer tote bag. For a classy night-out outfit, switch your white sneakers for a pair of strappy heels and wear a black satin blazer.
2. Little Black Dress
The little black dress is just about as French as a buttery croissant. This classic wardrobe staple is one of the foundational items in a French girl’s wardrobe because of its practicality in so many life situations. You can wear it on a job interview, to a party, your boyfriend’s parents’ dinner party and so many other places. It is the go-to dress for those I-have-no-idea-what-to-wear events in your life. The LBD can be paired with a special jacket or favorite handbag to add some character and personality to the outfit.
3. White T-Shirt
A white t-shirt is another basic of the French wardrobe. It’s the perfect item to create a very Parisian effortless chic outfit! Just wear it with jeans and a pair of white sneakers. Add a slightly masculine blazer for a chicer look. Make sure to opt for a 100% cotton plain t-shirt to look polished.
4. Straight-Leg Jeans
A French girl doesn’t wear much skin-tight clothing and the same goes for jeans. Instead of skinny jeans, chic French girls often wear straight-leg jeans which still follow the form of the leg, but in a looser way, leaving just the right amount of open space towards the ankle.
5. Oversized Blazer
Another staple borrowed from the boys, an oversized, almost masculine blazer is absolutely found in all the cool French girls’ wardrobes. They were popularized most recently by Isabel Marant, who makes some of the most coveted ones. Look for a cute blazer made of wool or linen with a plaid or houndstooth print.
6. Silk Scarf
A silk scarf is the basic that you’ll find in every French woman’s wardrobe. This lightweight scarf typically made of silk (or similar materials) can be square or rectangle and is usually worn in mid-season when the temperatures start to rise. A silk scarf is essentially worn for style and fashion as it does not protect much from the cold. It’s a great way to add French chic to any of your outfits as it can be both an accessory as well as a statement piece.
