To travel well is to travel in style. To the most discerning amongst us, this typically means tweaking your wardrobe to the sights and shades of whatever destination you’re visiting. This summer, my itinerary includes a few weekend getaway trips to Paris and Marseille. Despite these locations offering two varying iterations of France’s enchantment, these mini breaks are a perfect way to immerse myself in the local style and bustling culture of these cities. My dilemma, however, lies in what to pack for these trips. Enter, my edit of the best French summer staples.
As a place, Paris is made unique by its Haussmann architecture, legendary bistros like Brasserie Lipp and streetside bars that sling St-Germain spritz amidst the hum of the city. On the other hand, Marseille’s proximity to the glamour of the Côte d’Azur, yet slightly grungy reputation, makes it both sun-kissed and gritty, even if long alfresco lunches at gorgeous establishments like Tuba Club are on the agenda.
With distinct approaches to fashion—not to mention the added pressure of feeling like I need to blend in with my surroundings when on holiday—the contents of my luggage have become my paramount concern of late. Whilst I’m there, I want to feel like I’m emulating the je ne sais quoi of French women with my wardrobe, rather than just looking like I’ve copied a stereotypical ensemble that will immediately identify me as a tourist.
So, to ensure I’m stocked with the chicest French fashion staples, I’ve turned to some trusted fashion destinations to pick up a few essentials. What you won’t find is an edit of Breton-stripe tops, cigarette trousers and ballet pumps. These are far too conventional and, in all truth, not quite aligned with the actual ensembles I see French women wear daily. Instead, you’ll see polished basics, flirty neutrals and sophisticated essentials that can work from Le Marias to Saint-Victor. Best of all, these are pieces that will channel the essence of a French woman’s style, irrespective of whether you’re actually visiting there.
Live out your Jean-Luc Godard fantasy with these stylish pieces, below.
Shop French Summer 2026 Buys from Zara
Slinky and refined, this style will complement white trousers and cropped denim shorts alike.
Boudoir dressing is a cardinal theme of French fashion, making this sensual slip such a staple.
From cruising around the city to lounging on the coast, these straight-leg linen trousers are casual and chic.
Now, I know I said no Breton stripes, but when worn with white jeans and a colour-pop belt, this trusted essential just looks so cool.
Blend right in with this blissful denim colour.
French women are rarely depicted in billowing dresses, but trust me when I say they love them as much as the next.
Though France isn't as subject to precarious weather shifts as the UK, it still never hurts to invest in polished outerwear.
This crepe top looks like it could have been designed by Isabel Marant or Hedi Slimane.
Ever so slightly cropped above the ankle, every French woman knows the secret to looking chic is about perfecting proportions.
Shop French Summer 2026 Buys from Sézane
As dreamy and sun-kissed as my days in France will be.
The perfect throw-on dress for my languid days along the coast.
You never really acquaint French women with florals, but brands like Sézane and Rouje prove the print is just as prominent there as it is here.
French denim should not be underrated, as these sophisticated stovepipe jeans prove.
Lace! Ruffles! Embroidery! Oh my!
This delicate apron top is all business in the front, party in the back.
This soft-touch cardigan features a crew neckline and sumptuous fabric.
Made with water-repellent fabric, this coat is structured and sophisticated.
Channel your inner Jane Birkin with this blissful basket bag.
Shop French Summer 2026 Buys from Reformation
Three-quarter-sleeve tops are one of the best summer basics to invest in this year.
There's just something so chic about these shorts, from the wafty fabric to the knee-grazing length.
An outfit that's easy to replicate and incredibly covetable.
A dreamy co-ord, to say the least.
These flats are made for walkin'.
Polished and poised, this silhouette embraces the more masculine side of French women's wardrobes.
This wrap skirt can be styled in so many different ways: with a slim-knit cardigan, an oversized jumper or a long-sleeved blouse.
It's hard to choose favourites, but I think this top is the one I'll invest in first.
Silk taffeta trousers, you've stolen my heart.