Yep, These French-Girl Basics Are Sitting at Nordstrom Right Now
If there’s one thing that is pretty much proven at this point, it’s that French women really know what they’re doing when it comes to their outfits and every fashion piece they have in their closets. In my opinion, they especially shine when it comes to those classic basics that everyone should have in their wardrobes—and they truly know how to wear them well. So what are the basics French women stand behind and how do they style them?
Ahead, I’m breaking down the French basics you’ll spot in every Parisian’s wardrobe, from classic jeans to everyday jewelry to the "grandma” piece Parisians love. Yep, these are the versatile pieces you’ve probably been planning to add to your closet, if you haven’t already, that make a repeat appearance in some of the most stylish outfits around. Scroll down to see the ultimate French-girl basics, and shop my edit.
Slip Dresses
Yep, slip dresses are the ultimate wear-anytime piece because of their ability to be dressed up or dressed down. And honestly, who doesn't want to slip into a silky satin dress?
Shop slip dresses:
Gold Jewelry
There really isn't anything quite as timeless as gold jewelry—something French girls are clearly tuned into. From hoop earrings to necklaces for layering, you'll find these in any Parisian's wardrobe.
Shop gold jewlery:
Leggings
Whether you opt for of-the-moment slit leggings or a classic version, there's one thing that's for certain—black leggings are a mainstay in the French-girl wardrobe.
Shop leggings:
Cardigans
While cardigans may be trending right now, they've always been a French-girl basic. Consider this "grandma" trend the ultimate cool-meets-cozy piece.
Shop cardigans:
Straight-Leg Jeans
If there's one thing I've learned from French girls, it's that straight-leg jeans are the one style to buy above any others. They truly never go out of style.
Shop straight-leg jeans:
Button-Down Tops
The best thing about a button-down top? It seriously goes with anything. Sure, jeans are a solid choice, but gym shorts might even be one step cooler.
Shop button-down tops:
Next, shop the fashion pieces I have my eye on right now.
Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear where she oversees luxury, runway content, and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, and Tiffany & Co., and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.
-
The Brutally Honest Skincare Advice You Needed to Know Yesterday, According to 2 Beauty Industry Vets
The Dieux founders share their hot takes and unfiltered product recs.
-
Sorry to My Classic Black Shoes, But This Printed Shoe Trend Is Defining Fall 2025
Spotted on fashion people in Venice, NYC, and Copenhagen.
-
I Live in Murray Hill—Here Are the 8 Places I Like to Shop for a Fashionable Fall Closet
Stylish sweaters and suedes ahead.
-
Fashionable Clothing Ahead—28 Chic Fall Picks From Zara, Nordstrom, J.Crew, and Shopbop
From sweaters to jackets.
-
My Mom and I Love a Good Nordstrom Sale—These Are the Chic Fall Items That Get Our Stamp of Approval
Discounted jeans, jackets, sneakers, and more.
-
5 Fall Nordstrom Outfits Under $425 That Give Off "I Hired a Personal Stylist" Energy
Fashionable 'fits.
-
These 32 Elevated Nordstrom and Zara Finds Make Getting Ready So Much Easier (and Chicer)
Here's to effortless outfits.
-
I'm Channeling '90s Jennifer Aniston and Halle Berry With These 10 Fall-Ready Looks From Nordstrom
Minimalism at its finest.
-
These Are the Only Labor Day Weekend Sales That Matter—Shop the Best Deals Thanks to Nordstrom, Madewell, J.Crew, and More
Save big on fall staples.
-
Okay, the New Nordstrom Sale Is Major—These 30 Items Are Actually Amazing for Fall (Perfect for a Chic Wardrobe)
Discounted jeans, knits, and more.