If you're anything like me, these winter months (and The White Lotus) have you dreaming of a European summer. Posting up in the Marais, washing down pistachio gelato with an ice-cold Sancerre, and hitting those legendary French soldes all sound like good enough reason to peruse Expedia. But whether or not Europe is in the cards next year, French dressing can still be within reach.
The key to shopping like the French? Balancing practicality with style while leaving room for a little flair. French women have mastered the art of eschewing trends for more timeless pieces, meaning these purchases will serve you well beyond the year ahead. Read on for all the items our cross-Atlantic counterparts will be stocking their closets with. (Trust me—it'll be cheaper than that Air France ticket.)
Well-Tailored Pants
A flattering pair of pants is a wardrobe game changer. These pairs easily transition from le boardroom to le bar (and everywhere in between).
Strikes the right balance of dressy and relaxed. The pleats up the ante.
Don't let the elastic waistband fool you. These slim-fit suit pants don't sacrifice style for comfort.
Bonus: These come in three lengths, so no hemming required.
The best part of these pants isn't the smoothing ponte fabric or flattering wide cut (although, both are absolutely true); it's that they're machine washable.
I own these pants in three colors and have my eye on a fourth. Trust me, they won't disappoint.
Midi Skirts
A good midi skirt is a fabulous alternative to pants (and looks equally killer with sneakers or strappy sandals).
Breezy, easy with built-in pockets. Need I say more?
An easy, everyday curve-skimming option.
Cozy up in this sweater skirt.
Florals! Not just for spring. This moody winter rose print will get you through the post-holiday blues.
Swooning over this rich hue.
Lace Accents
A lace detail adds a je ne sais quoi to any look. It’s somehow both sexy and gamine and will dress anything up.
When you're feeling more Paris, Texas, than Paris, France.
This looks like a vintage find.
Saucy lace cutouts in addition to velvet make this a no-brainer for holiday soirées.
Why should your outerwear have all the fun? Layer this under the above top for a lace-on-lace moment.
A sleeve as dramatic as anything you'll see at Opéra Garnier.
Stripes
Popularized by French sailors, the Breton stripe has been a fashion mainstay for ages—and it isn't going anywhere. A must-have, whether you plan to be nautical or nice this season.
Pair this with any of the above trousers.
A more everyday option in a soft, sumptuous cotton.
The big gold buttons remind me of Dynasty in the best way.
An option for those with or expecting a bébé.
Mary Janes
Because Paris is a city best explored on foot, a proper shoe is necessary. Navigating the cobblestone streets of France is no easy feat, which is why you rarely see sky-high stilettos. A flat or low-heeled Mary Jane makes catching the metro or taking a quick jaunt to your local tabac a breeze.
But how fun is the red piping detail on these?
Sturdy heel, check. Shiny patent leather, check.
Try to resist these rhinestone buckles.
I think we can agree that metallics are practically a neutral.
If you're not having said pistachio gelato in Paris, why not treat yourself to an equally delectable option to wear?
Up next, check out How 9 French Women Stay Looking Trés Chic Throughout Winter.