Humaa Hussain
If you love French style and shopping at an affordable price point, then you've come to the right place! I'm a French woman at heart, especially when it comes to my style choices. I'm forever on the lookout for fresh pieces that embody that nonchalant yet polished aesthetic the French do so well.
So if effortlessly cool French style is what you're looking for this year, and you don't want to spend a fortune on a fresh wardrobe, then it's worth taking a peek at H&M right now. From chic tank tops to straight-leg jeans and sleek skirts, the affordable brand has a host of classic yet trend-forward finds ideal for the current weather.
Keep scrolling for our guide to what our Parisian fashion friends are likely to buy from H&M and the items they would likely say "non, merci" to.
Effortlessly Cool Items French Women Would Buy at H&M:
1. Buy: Chic Vest Tops
Skip: Over-the-Top Party Tops
Style Notes: French women rely on chic and easy tank tops all year round. Skip the over-the-top party tops and pair an elevated tank with jeans and midi skirts instead.
Shop the Look:
This vest is an absolute wardrobe essential (that plenty of Who What Wear editors own). The thick cotton means that it washes well, retains its shape and it's not see through.
An elevated take on a basic piece.
The lace detail here is so pretty.
2. Buy: Relaxed Button-Down Shirts
Skip: Tunics
Style Notes: If there's one item stylish French women wear year-round, it's a relaxed and effortless button-down shirt. Set the tunics aside and opt for a button-down in white, blue, or stripes for the utmost versatility.
Shop the Look:
This looks so much more expensive than it is.
So many great outfits call for a perfect white shirt.
I love the bold stripe.
3. Buy: '90s Straight and Loose Leg Jeans
Skip: Super Skinny Jeans
Style Notes: Jeans are a staple for French women, and you'll always find a '90s-inspired high-waisted straight-leg silhouette in their wardrobe. Bypass the super-skinny styles and go for a more relaxed cut.
Shop the Look:
This particular cut is a personal favourite of mine.
This pair strikes the balance of straight yet relaxed in an ideal way.
These have the perfect slim slouch.
4. Buy: Ballet Flats
Skip: Sky-High Platforms
Style Notes: For wandering around Paris, flat, or at least comfy, shoes are a must and we've noticed our French friends are partial to a pair of classic ballerinas or a Mary-Jane. These versatile shoes can be styled with dresses, tailoring and jeans alike, and H&M has a ton to choose from right now.
Shop the Look:
This simple style will serve your looks for years to come.
These look so expensive.
These are, unsurprisingly, selling out so fast.
5. Buy: Shoulder Bags
Skip: Micro Mini Bags
Style Notes: For summer it's all about the basket bag 'en France', but come autumn these are put away for their classic counterparts: the shoulder bag. Classic designs with room for the essential are a go-to.
Shop the Look:
This went straight in my basket.
The refined minimalism add a 90's touch.
6. Buy: Minimal Skirts
Skip: Micro Shorts
Style Notes: Sleek and elegant. This season, opt for streamlined slip skirts, maxi silhouettes, or minis that will transition seamlessly from day to night.
Shop the Look:
This looks so luxe.
A full skirt feels so directional.
I'm into this whole look.
7. Buy: Flip Flops
Skip: Chunky Platform Sandals
Style Notes: The French approach to warm-weather dressing always feels so effortless, and footwear is no exception. This season, it's all about minimal, sleek flip flops that feel more elevated than your average beach pair. Think slender straps, barely-there silhouettes, and neutral tones that work with everything from linen trousers to flowing midi dresses. While chunky platforms have their place, French women favour styles that elongate the leg and complement their signature pared-back vibe.
Shop the Look:
These look like they could be Toteme.
I'd wear this with baggy jeans and a tank.
These won't stick around for long.
8. Buy: Striped Tops
Skip: Tie-Dye Tops
Style Notes: Yes, it's true. French women love stripes. They generally favour striped tops and sweaters more than tie-dye or geometric designs. Simply add a pair of high-waisted jeans, a belt, and ballet flats, and you have one chic-looking outfit.
Shop the Look:
If you said this was The Row, I'd believe you.
You can't go wrong with a classic breton.
H&M's famous ribbed vest top now comes in stripes.
9. Buy: Broderie Blouses
Skip: Loud Printed Blouses
Style Notes: Nothing says summer quite like a pretty broderie blouse. With its delicate cutwork detailing and romantic feel, it adds instant polish to any outfit, whether paired with relaxed denim or tailored shorts. French women gravitate towards these timeless, subtly feminine pieces that nod to vintage inspiration without feeling too saccharine. Skip bold prints that can feel overpowering—clean, airy designs offer far more versatility and that effortless je ne sais quoi.
Shop the Look:
Love this.
The blue is a great way to tap into two trends.
The puff sleeves are the best part.
This story originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S. and has since been updated.
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