For another year in a row, French women are proving once again that looking effortlessly chic doesn’t require a trust fund—just a few smart choices and a well-curated wardrobe. Forget about splurging on the latest trends; it’s all about investing in those timeless staples that make you look like you’ve just stepped off a Parisian boulevard (with minimal effort, of course). The best part? None of these wardrobe wonders will cost you a fortune—every item is under $200, coming from brands like Zara, Mango, and H&M.
Oui, you read that right. Whether you're channeling your inner French muse or simply aiming for that "I just threw this on" vibe, these five investment pieces French women swear by will keep you looking polished without shelling out thousands of dollars on a single outfit. If you're looking to upgrade your style in 2025, scroll below to discover the best affordable pieces French women are buying.
Tried-and-True Jeans
How to style: Jeans + striped sweater + leather shoes
Well-Made Sweaters
How to style: White T-shirt + cashmere sweater + satin skirt + pointed-toe boots
Elegant Leather Shoes
How to style: Leather shoes + jeans + an oversize blazer
Timeless Coats
How to style: A classic coat + white tee + jeans + wayfarer sunglasses
Minimalist Bags
How to style: Navy coat + coduroy pants + black belt + leather bag
-
Keep This Between You and Me: I Just Found a $165 Alt for The Row's Viral and Sold-Out $1300 HeelsYou're welcome.
-
These Rich-Looking Pieces Are All Under $100 and Will Transform Your Style Now Through FallAffordable and stylish.
-
I Went to Nordstrom's NYC Flagship to Shop the Anniversary Sale—Here's Everything I Tried and LovedFrom basics to beauty.
-
24 Chic Under-$100 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Finds That Are Taking Over My Fashion-Editor Text GroupLongchamp, Levi's, Madewell, and more.
-
The 33 Best Anti-Trend Items at Zara, According to a Fashion EditorTime for a summer basics upgrade.
-
This Is the Sofia Coppola Way to Style Jeans for SummerWe're beguiled.
-
These Paris Street Style Looks Are Now the Centerpieces on My Summer Mood BoardSaved for future copying.
-
What If I Told You My Necklace Wasn't The Row, But $38 and Technically a Bag Charm?Yes, I said $38.
