I Don't Live in Paris, But These Chic Outfits Make Me Feel Like I Do


I've always dreamed of living in Paris. I fell in love with the French language and culture back in high school. I'd jump on the Eurostar (from London, where I was living) and visit the city regularly, always coming back home with a stack of L'Officiel magazines and a charming find from one of the many vintage stores I frequented.
Though I ended up in L.A., I'm still drawn to the Parisian way of life, especially when it comes to style. I always favor the nonchalant, effortlessly chic outfit formulas that embody the French aesthetic. If you love French style as much as I do, I'm sharing a handful of chic French outfits that you can easily emulate for yourself—and will unquestionably make you feel like you live in Paris through the simple act of wearing them! Keep scrolling to get inspired.
The French know the power of great classic pieces. There's nothing more timeless than a fitted white tee, straight-leg jeans, and a trench. Lean into the minimalist vibe with thong sandals and a simple shoulder bag in a very French burgundy hue.
Shop the look:
One print French women love? Timeless yet trend-forward polka-dots. Style a sheer polka-dot print skirt with a classic white tee and black mules for an effortlessly chic Parisian look that works for day or night. Finish the look with a pop of red.
Shop the look:
The perfect summer-to-fall outfit? A simple white tank paired with a luxe-looking black leather midi skirt and black slingback heels. Throw on an effortless cardigan once the temps start to drop.
Shop the look:
Lean into rich, dark-brown hues for a luxe Parisian look. A brown midi dress paired with a matching espresso suede bag looks chic from morning 'til night.
Shop the look:
No one does a jeans-and–a-nice-top outfit better than the French. For an alluring look, opt for a top with a low back and give it a casual twist by styling with flip flops. It's all about balance.
Shop:
Every French woman owns a classic, relaxed white button-down. Style one with a polka-dot maxi skirt for a touch of Parisian chic flair.
Shop the look:

Judith Jones is the associate shopping director at Who What Wear and has worked in fashion for over a decade. She specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.
-
French Women Have Decided These 3 Shoe Trends Are Officially Chicer Than Flat Sandals
I'm following suit.
-
Cooler Than Jeans and a T-Shirt—Everyone With Good Taste Will Wear These 15 Denim Outfits This Fall
Next time fall styling inspiration runs dry, just reference these looks.
-
Goodbye, Ballet Flats: It Girls in London, NYC, and Paris Are Prioritizing This Fall Flat Shoe Trend Instead
And they're styling it like *this.*
-
Nordstrom, J.Crew, and Revolve Captured the NYC Summer Vibe With These 38 Pieces
You could call these pieces peak summer.
-
Everyone Is Suddenly Wearing This Expensive-Looking Item With White Pants
So chic.
-
Basic Jeans Aren't Out, But This Denim Trend Feels Way More 2025
It's not white, dark wash, or chocolate brown.
-
30 Standout Nordstrom and Zara Finds That Would Make Any French Woman Stop Scrolling
Chic pieces to wear straight through fall.
-
The French-Girl Way to Style Black Capris This Fall
Outfit inspiration inside.