9 Under-$100 Pieces I'm Buying to Look Way More French

Affordable French style

Photo:

@adenorah

At the Who What Wear office, I’m kind of known as the French style expert. No, I’m not French, but I did live in Paris years ago and visit any chance I get. When I’m hopping overseas, though, I still feel very tapped into French style. Often, I’ll chat with Who What Wear’s French style columnist, Sabina Socol, to learn about what’s new in the world of Parisian fashion. Other times, though, I’ll stay up to speed on what all of the cool French girls are wearing by looking to Instagram.

Recently, I took to scrolling through their feeds to pinpoint all the major pieces they’re wearing right now that are essentials for the fall season ahead. And here’s the great news: I’ve found all the key pieces at affordable piece points, all ringing in under $100. If you, too, have a thing for Parisian style and want to tap into it without emptying your wallet, I’ve honed in on all of the affordable French style staples to add to your shopping cart right now.

1. Beaded Bag
Affordable French style: beaded bag

Photo:

@leiasfez

Straw basket bags used to be the number one French-girl accessory, but this year it’s been replaced by beaded bags.

There’s also a black version of this bag available.

2. Miniskirt
Affordable French style: miniskirt

Photo:

@vikilefevre

A miniskirt brings in everything cool about French style going back to the Françoise Hardy. For fall, make it a corduroy style.

Wear yours with ankle boots, a crisp T-shirt, and an oversize blazer.

3. Snakeskin Coat
Affordable French style: snakeskin

Photo:

@camillecharriere

Snakeskin is one of the biggest trends for fall 2018, but how are French girls wearing it? Look no further than Camille Charrière, who's wearing the print with a statement coat.

4. Turtleneck
Affordable French style: turtleneck

Photo:

@lifeofboheme

A turtleneck is one of the most versatile layering pieces for fall that you'll spot in every French girl's closet. Try a pop of color with red.

To wear with everything from jeans to miniskirts.

5. Leopard Pants
Affordable French style: leopard pants

Photo:

@adenorah

I'm naming leopard pants and jeans the new French-girl staple for fall 2018.

Take a styling note from Anne-Laure Mais and wear yours with a button-down knit.

6. Tailored Outerwear
Affordable French style: tailored coat

Photo:

@claire_most

If you walk the streets of Paris during the fall, you'll spot tailored outerwear in timeless shades like black or navy on all of the stylish women.

You can wear this now and for years down the road.

7. Suede Ankle Boots
Affordable French style: suede ankle boots

Photo:

@sabinasocol

Another piece you'll spot all over Paris? Suede ankle boots in neutral colors like tan and chocolate brown.

Look for a style like these with a comfortable block heel.

8. Button-Down Top
Affordable French style: button-down top

Photo:

@louisefollain

Here's a French-girl staple you can wear all year long.

Pair this with denim shorts in the summer and trousers in the fall.

9. Plaid Pants
Affordable French style: plaid pants

Photo:

@inesmelia

Plaid is a print that lines Parisian wardrobes. One of the freshest ways to wear it for fall? Checked trousers.

Style these with metallic gold sandals to tap into Parisian style.