French women have a knack for seeing potential in even the simplest pieces. What others might dismiss as "boring” could, in the eyes of a Parisian, be the foundation of an Instagram-ready look.
It’s worth taking a leaf out of their fashion handbook, because every wardrobe could benefit from a base of versatile, fuss-free items. From there, you can add more interesting and on-trend elements into the mix, and ultimately, create a rotation of outfits that feel both timeless and current. Easy peasy.
When stocking up for staples, prioritise pieces you know will work through the seasons, whether by layering them up or styling them with different shoes and accessories. Before you head straight to Marks and Spencer’s basics section, take a peek at the eight essentials I’ve pin-pointed as cornerstones in French closets. I looked to a selection of Gallic influencers to figure out exactly which buys I could carry with me from winter to spring, spring to summer, and so on—because let’s be honest, there’s no better source of sartorial intel. Et voilà…
1. Classic Jeans
Style Notes: Blue denim is a ride-or-die staple in French women's wardrobes, particularly classic, straight-leg pairs. The streets of Paris are brimming with effortless jeans-based outfits.
Shop jeans:
These jeans come with rave reviews.
The cropped length is perfect for showing off your footwear.
French girls love wide-leg denim.
2. Plain T-Shirt
Style Notes: A white tee might sound boring, but dress it up like Leasy has, and you'll be glad you invested in this building block piece.
Shop T-shirts:
This is an editor favourite.
James Perse makes incredibly high-quality tees.
A year-round staple.
3. Little Black Dress
Style Notes: For brunch dates, dinner dates and everything in between, an understated black dress will always deliver.
Shop black dresses:
The sweetheart neckline is so classy.
Proof that it's all in the details—that buckle is everything.
Date night-ready.
4. Blue Button-Down
Style Notes: While Parisians love their monochrome outfits, they won't say no to a clean-cut blue shirt. Pair yours with whites for fresh springtime look.
Shop blue shirts:
H&M always delivers expensive-looking essentials.
In the summer months, use this as a chic swimsuit cover-up.
Easy to carry from one season to the next.
5. Cashmere Cardigan
Style Notes: French women won't sacrifice practicality for aesthetics, which is why they rely on chic cashmere knitwear to keep them warm in winter.
Shop cardigans:
You can also pick this up in grey or black.
Influencers love this knit.
A handy layer to keep the chill at bay.
6. Silk Cami
Style Notes: Layered under a blazer or on its own in summer, a silk-satin camisole is a quick route to elegance. Just add jeans to make it everyday-appropriate.
Shop camisoles:
Beautiful.
Layer under a blazer and add red lipstick for a super sultry, classically Parisian look.
Why not add a pop of blue into the mix?
7. Double-Breasted Blazer
Style Notes: Next time you invest in a new blazer, opt for a double-breasted design in a menswear-inspired cut, ideally in a neutral hue to maximise its wearability.
Shop blazers:
I'm into the boxy shape of this one.
Wear with everything from denim to slip skirts.
You don't have to spend a fortune on wardrobe mainstays.
8. Comfortable Flats
Style Notes: You won't spot Gallic girls tottering along in too-high heels; instead, they make a habit of getting from place to place comfortably in simple flats.
Shop flats:
I expect these to sell out in no time.
A nice change from black ballet flats.
These are truly special—and will earn you so many compliments.
Next Up: I've Just Assembled the Perfect French Capsule Wardrobe With 9 Simple Pieces
-
Spotted in Paris: 6 Chic, Trend-Proof Sandals French Women Are Actually WearingNo wonder they all look so stylish right now.
-
Sorry, Flats—These Anti-Trend Heels Are Every French Woman's Quiet Go-To for a Night Out in ParisA classic choice.
-
When I Saw Parisians Wearing These 5 Trainer Trends, I Knew They Were Here to StaySome of them might surprise you.
-
My Colleague Just Got Back From Paris—She Saw This Chic Trouser-and-Shoe Combo on Every StreetNo-brainer elegance.
-
Black Heels Are Fine, But in France, Everyone Knows This Shoe Colour Looks Better With White DressesSpotted at Versailles.
-
8 Classic Outfits to Try This Summer If You're a French Girl at Heart (Like Me)Chic.
-
7 Simple But Chic Summer Trends Stylish Women Across France Are Wearing NowFrom Paris to Provence.
-
Hold the Trainers—These Are the Elegant Shoes Parisians Are Wearing With the Jeans of SummerElevated and chic. Period.
