I Asked My Chic French Friend for Her Favourite Pretty Blouses—9 Elegant Styles She Sent Over
Wear them with straight-leg jeans now and linen shorts later; these are the best blouses to build a chic spring wardrobe.
If there’s one item that every chic French woman seems to own come spring, it’s a pretty blouse. Worn with straight-leg jeans and ballet flats now, and with shorts and sandals later in the summer, the blouse is the ultimate “nice top” that makes even the simplest outfits feel more elegant. After scrolling through what felt like hundreds of options, I kept coming back to the same three brands: COS, Sézane and Reformation.
Starting with Sézane, the Paris-based brand has naturally mastered the art of the perfect blouse. From ruffled, slightly bohemian styles to sheer, dressier options, the blouses are the kind of pieces that instantly make a jeans outfit look more polished. COS, on the other hand, offers a more minimal and structured take on the blouse, with oversized silhouettes, boxier fits and fabrics that hold their shape beautifully. And then there’s Reformation, which brings a slightly more playful, vintage-inspired feel to the blouse category, with polka dots, gingham and soft, feminine silhouettes.
If you’re looking for the perfect blouse to wear with jeans, linen trousers or tailored shorts this spring and summer, these are the brands I’d start with. Keep scrolling to shop the best COS, Sézane and Reformation blouses, plus a few more favourites.
Shop The Best COS, Sezane and Reformation Blouses
A slightly more modern take on the classic white blouse. The ruched detailing adds shape and makes it feel a little more fashion-forward than a standard shirt.
This blouse feels very romantic and very French. Perfect with simple denim and ballet flats.
A slightly more statement blouse that still feels wearable.
The kind of blouse that instantly makes jeans look more elegant.
This will work with everything from denim to linen trousers.
A polka-dot blouse always feels very French, and the scarf detail makes this one feel especially polished. I’d wear this with straight-leg jeans, ballet flats and a simple trench.
Exactly the kind of pretty blouse Sézane does so well. Slightly romantic, easy to wear and perfect with vintage-style denim.
COS always nails the sculptural top, and this one feels clean, minimal and very polished. Perfect if you prefer a more modern, tailored look over ruffles and lace.
The kind of piece you’ll wear on repeat all spring and summer.
Just add jeans, loafers and a blazer and you’re done.
Slightly more statement but still very wearable, this blouse is perfect for adding interest to simple outfits.
A very easy, pretty polka-dot blouse that works perfectly for everyday outfits.
This draped blouse feels slightly more elevated and evening-appropriate than a classic cotton blouse. Ideal with tailored trousers and simple heels.
A black lace blouse is always a good idea if you want something a little dressier.
A pretty, slightly vintage-feeling top that works beautifully with simple denim and sandals.
This feels like something you’d find in a Paris boutique. Ideal for spring with light-wash denim.
Shop More Blouses
Probably one of the most recognisable blouses on Instagram for a reason. Romantic, slightly vintage and perfect with jeans.
This looks far more expensive than it is. A lace-trim blouse like this is perfect for making simple jeans outfits look more considered.
A beautiful high-street option that feels very designer-inspired. Ideal if you like the DÔEN look but want a more affordable option.
A very easy, romantic blouse that works perfectly for spring outfits with denim and ballet flats.
Perfect for holidays and warm days in the city.
Exactly the kind of romantic, floaty blouse Chloé is known for.
A more sculptural, fashion-forward blouse that would look incredible with tailored trousers or dark denim.
Very bohemian, very Parisian. Perfect for slightly more relaxed, effortless outfits.
A really pretty vintage-inspired blouse that works beautifully with jeans and boots or sandals.
A tie-neck silk blouse always feels very polished and slightly vintage-inspired.
A really versatile blouse that works for both work and weekends.
