I've Done My Research, and These French Brands Are the Key to Looking Effortless

It doesn't take a trip to Paris to know that the French do things differently, especially when it comes to fashion. By this point, it'd be fair to say that the country's citizens have mastered the art of low-key sophistication, as French-girl style is pretty much synonymous with effortlessness. There's an understated ease you can't find as easily in other metropolitan areas. While visiting Paris a few years ago myself, I developed the urge to grab the nearest breezy white top and wide-leg jeans. But even outside of their famously casual approach, French girls definitely know how to translate that similarly relaxed vibe into fancier, party-ready looks.

For years, I've been taking sartorial notes—via Instagram and through my trips to Paris—and now, I'm sharing the secrets. In short, it's as easy as shopping where the French go, so I've included a roster of French brands that have their fingers on the pulse of what's trending in the country. After scanning through countless photos and window-shopping, I've discovered the top brands that are key to getting the sought-after aesthetic. Keep scrolling below to see them all.

Musier

Founded by influencer Anne-Laure Mais, Musier bridges elevated casual with trend-forward details like exposed cutouts and seductive silhouettes. It's a brand that can take you from day to night with ease, which may partly explain why it's quickly gained a following among editors and influencers alike.

Shop my favorite Musier pieces:

Courrèges

Dripping with heritage, the storied French brand has recently undergone a face-lift courtesy of Creative Director Nicolas Di Felice. The result is a sleek and decidedly dark spin on Courrèges's signature space-age aesthetic that feels fresh and fitting for 2022. While the brand's updated knits are worth a try, the must-have piece is undoubtedly its cropped leather jacket, complete with Courrèges's famous logo. 

Shop my favorite Courrèges pieces:

Loulou Studio

A fresh face on the fashion scene, Loulou Studio is the brand behind a slew of our favorite French girls' timeless outfits. Its cashmere sweaters and pants are wildly popular during the cold-weather season, and in the summer, the label's poplin shirts and dresses are virtually everywhere in Paris. If you're looking for upgraded classics at a median price point, you'll want to keep the beloved brand in your Rolodex.

Shop my favorite Loulou Studio pieces:

Jacquemus

A brand that needs no introduction, Jacquemus is practically required shopping for anyone looking to capture that French-girl aesthetic. A bit more seductive and playful than the stereotypical Jane Birkin take, Jacquemus's bread and butter is vibrant resortwear, such as bubblegum-pink linen dresses and bright-blue cutout tops. Season after season, the collections offer everything you could want in a statement outfit.

Shop my favorite Jacquemus pieces:

Sandro

For cool and casual days, you can bet Sandro will be one of the names French girls reach for. One of the most popular contemporary brands among French girls, Sandro is great for romance-infused separates that also have a timeless edge.

Shop my favorite Sandro pieces:

Sézane

France's style equivalent to Madewell, Sézane encapsulates everything that comes to mind when you envision traditional French-girl style. There are the bohemian-led silhouettes and figure-accentuating denim, with the added sprinkle of retro-inspired prints. Everything looks like something you'd spend hours sourcing at a vintage shop, and that's part of the charm.

Shop my favorite Sézane pieces:

Mirae

The brainchild of a mother-daughter duo, Mirae is the French's answer to effortless glamour. Its minis and sweeping high-slit dresses are practically made for a special occasion or night out. The label is also big on '60s and '70s influences, which are really apparent within its colorful print selection and groovy details.

Shop my favorite Mirae pieces:

Next up: You Call Them Ugly—It Girls Call Them Fashion: 6 Weird Trends Rising This Summer