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
-
If a NYC Fashion Person Were Scrolling Through Amazon, They'd Buy These 27 BasicsThe best 2025 Amazon basics.
-
The Perfect $16 Tank Top and More Zara Items I'm Texting Everyone I Know AboutElite finds.
-
These New Under-$100 Nordstrom Summer Items Are What I Call Fashion, PeriodExpensive-looking staples.
-
I Can't Visit the South of France This Summer, But I Can Still Dress Like It—30 Items That'll Do the TrickI'm bringing European style stateside.
-
7 Parisian-Chic Looks I'm Copying This Summer—Even If I'm Stuck in NYC TrafficI'm mentally in France RN.
-
Olivia Rodrigo Just Wordlessly Informed Everyone That This T-Shirt Trend Is *the* Basic to BuyIt's elevated and '90s-inspired.
-
Fashion People Are Wearing This $50 Accessory (Kendall Jenner Included), and I Bought It—My Outfits Are Now CoolerThis item is everywhere.
-
The Best Elevated Basics to Shop If You Love The Row, According to a StylistSo chic.
