5 Affordable Wardrobe Investments French Women Are Making in 2025

For another year in a row, French women are proving once again that looking effortlessly chic doesn’t require a trust fund—just a few smart choices and a well-curated wardrobe. Forget about splurging on the latest trends; it’s all about investing in those timeless staples that make you look like you’ve just stepped off a Parisian boulevard (with minimal effort, of course). The best part? None of these wardrobe wonders will cost you a fortune—every item is under $200, coming from brands like Zara, Mango, and H&M.
Oui, you read that right. Whether you're channeling your inner French muse or simply aiming for that "I just threw this on" vibe, these five investment pieces French women swear by will keep you looking polished without shelling out thousands of dollars on a single outfit. If you're looking to upgrade your style in 2025, scroll below to discover the best affordable pieces French women are buying.
Tried-and-True Jeans
How to style: Jeans + striped sweater + leather shoes
Well-Made Sweaters
How to style: White T-shirt + cashmere sweater + satin skirt + pointed-toe boots
Elegant Leather Shoes
How to style: Leather shoes + jeans + an oversize blazer
Timeless Coats
How to style: A classic coat + white tee + jeans + wayfarer sunglasses
Minimalist Bags
How to style: Navy coat + coduroy pants + black belt + leather bag

Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.
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