I'm currently in the back of a New York taxicab stuck in traffic and daydreaming about the French girl aesthetic. I sit wondering if I'll ever achieve that effortlessly cool, timeless look that my go-to France-based style inspirations pull off so naturally. I'm always in awe of their easy, thrown-together ensembles that feel polished but never too serious.
French women have this unique ability to style contrasting textures, patterns, and silhouettes—combos some might consider fashion don'ts. On them, however, these looks never fail. They're so in tune with the zeitgeist of trends that I genuinely wonder if they have some kind of direct line to the fashion gods. Cheeky polka dots, retro-styled capris, the forever divisive jelly sandals… You name it. They've got their pulse on what's in.
In honor of my existential morning commute, here are seven Parisian-chic looks I'm officially committing to re-creating this summer, even if my cab driver is the only one who sees them.
Polka-Dot Capris + Polo
Polka dots and capris are trending, so why not wear them both? Red ballet flats add a pop of color, and a loose polo keeps it casual.
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Cutesy and cool.
It's cashmere, so of course, it's chic.
My closet is mainly ballet flats.
I've been seeing studded bags everywhere.
Slip Skirt + Flip-Flops
This take on an all-black look has finally convinced me to wear flip-flops on the streets on NYC. I know what I'm wearing tomorrow.
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So rich looking.
Thong or flip-flop sandals? Thong sandals are kind of growing on me.
I love the lace trim. It's so chic.
Perfect size for all your necessities.
Capris + Jelly Sandals
Capris are a true French girl staple, and whether you're team jelly sandals or not, this 'fit is polished and playful.
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In every French woman's closet.
They're growing on me.
This one-shoulder top gives cool girl.
Elegant.
Butter Yellow + Cheetah Print
Who would've thought to pair the color of the summer, butter yellow, and leopard print? It totally works.
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You could style this in so many ways.
A good basic.
The star of the look.
Elevated ballet flats.
For those rainy summer days.
Classic White Top + Blue Jeans
The French woman's uniform: a crisp white tank, light-wash jeans, and romantic kitten heels.
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Flirty height and effortless charm.
Timeless.
I love the relaxed fit on these.
Luxe look for everyday use.
An essential.
Monochrome Maxi Skirt + Tank Top
A monochrome outfit always looks put-together, especially in chocolate brown. Not to mention, it's easy to style.
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The right amount of volume in a skirt.
Suede touch and a structured look.
So versatile.
Stackable accessories that add charm to any look.
A clean look.
Gray Dress + Brown Heels
A basic midi dress to throw on and go. Just add a statement necklace for that effortlessly chic vibe.
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Seriously sleek.
A silver statement.
To add a little height.
Always in style.
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