I May Work in NYC, But My Closet Looks French—6 Chic Spring Basics That You’d Spot On The Streets of Paris
I work in NYC, but my feed thinks I live in Paris. Maybe it's the obscene amount of French fashion content I've consumed the past week. Hello, chic Parisian trench-coat outfits and French-woman flat-shoe trends. Regardless, there is no denying the effect it's had on my style. My office outfits are proof. Forever grateful for midi skirts and Repetto flats. Upside: I know exactly which spring basics define French women's style.
If you want your spring 2026 outfits to feel more Parisian, here are six chic French-woman basics that fit the bill. Spoiler: lace-trim shorts (specifically the Dôen Iona Short) make the list. Any francophile will agree that a classic trench coat is a must, and that this denim silhouette can be found in chic closets across the 16th Arrondissement. Plus, shop the timeless, two-tone slingbacks that have walked the cobblestone streets since at least the 50s.
6 Chic French Woman Basics for Spring 2026
1. Cap-Toe Slingback
Style Notes: The iconic Chanel slingback shoes are a calling card for chic Parisians. Making their debut in 1957, the two-tone style has been worn by everyone who's anyone, from the Royals to celebs (Lily-Rose Depp, for one) to your favorite style creators. Through the years, Chanel's creative directors have reimagined the shoe. Take Matthew Blazy's block-heeled, square-toed slingback as the modern go-to. For a heritage look, opt for the true Chanel slingbacks or choose an affordable option with a similar silhouette.
2. Lace-Trim Shorts
Style Notes: Lace-trim shorts are a spring must-have. Wear with a cropped cardigan, oversized long-sleeve crewneck, or matching lace camisole. Trust me, you'll be reaching for them time and again, and why? They are easy to style and look chic.
3. Linen Trousers
Style Notes: Lazy linens. That's the theme of my wardrobe this spring. It's comfortable. It's chic. It's conscious.
4. High-Neck Vests
Style Notes: Pay close attention, and you'll spot high-neck vests everywhere. It just so happens that French women have an elegant way of styling it. Pair it with bootcut jeans, a trench coat, slingback heels, and an East West bag.
5. Cigarette Jeans
Style Notes: If you're in a spring style rut, a white T-shirt and jeans outfit is the solution. Not only is it an editor-favorite, but it is also affordable. Chances are you already own the pairing, but if you're in need of a new pair of denim, let me suggest cigarette jeans. Slim, but not skinny. Loose, but not baggy. A standout Parsian spring basic.
6. Classic Trench Coat
Style Notes: No spring wardrobe is complete without the trench coat. I'm never without chic trench coat outfit ideas. My favorite way to style is as a top, buttoned up with a lace-trim skirt or a pair of cigarette jeans.
