Although the allure of French style spans all seasons, regions and decades, no one excels at effortless styling for warm weather quite like French women. Laid back, subtle and bearing the essence of the no-make-up look (but for clothing), every element is intentional but quietly so. They create and model some of the most sought-after dress styles that are celebrated across the globe.
French women's dress style exceeds the floral print, wrap and tea dresses that are commonly associated with Parisian women. In recent years, they’ve inherited noughties-inspired pieces and made them a permanent fixture. They're typically fashion-forward and accustomed to a trend or two but when they do, they adopt them for a lifetime and are admirably discerning about their acquirements. Take Y2K, its reformed eveningwear and the svelte shapes have a distinctive French characteristic, which makes the style slot seamlessly into a French women’s capsule. French women are also often seen donning risqué fabrications, long silhouettes, full-sleeved bias cuts and of course, minis thrown in for good measure. It was the stomping ground of style maven Bridget Bardot, after all.
There are several style notes I’ve made whilst studying fashion types in Paris. There’s a prevalence of pointelle, on-the-knee garments and downplaying floral motifs. Bloom-adorned clothing which would otherwise be destined for weddings is worn daily with trainers and down-to-earth ballerinas, loaning it a laid-back appeal. Other non-traditional styles are made wearable with worn-in denim and hardened materials, like leather. Like many, I’m enamoured by the effortless appeal of French women's style. Keep scrolling for five easy-to-wear French girl-inspired summer dress outfits I’ll be wearing this season.
French women wear knitted dresses and maxis year round. They can be worn at home, for day events and events alike. Simply add your footwear of choice.
Classic slip dresses are integral to the French aesthetic, especially when worn minimally.
See the Five Summer Dress Outfits I've Spotted French Women Wearing:
1. Silk Overshirt + Midi Dress + Mary-Jane Shoes
Style Notes: There's an effortless appeal to this outfit. Although the fabrication is detailed the oversized shirt and flat shoes make it a piece you can wear during the day. Remove the outer layer as the weather starts to warm up.
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A sleek basic you can wear from summer to winter.
You can easily dress this style up or down.
These contemporary flats will uplift classic outfits.
These charming jewels will elevate the simplest of looks.
2. Grey Slip Dress + Trench Coat + Mules
Style Notes: As Sylvie demonstrates, you can't go wrong with simplicity. Pair classic elements together and you'll have an instantly timeless outfit.
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If your wardrobe consists of black and white, why not add grey into the mix? Wear a slip dress with anything from trainers to mules. French women don this style with worn-in jackets and vintage leather, alike. It has an ageless and effortless appeal.
There's a French lilt to hobo bags and Arket craft some of the best on the high street.
A shoe capsule hero!
It's going strong a year since its initial release for good reason.
3. Black Midi Dress + Slides + Rattan Bag
Style Notes: Opt for full silhouettes, if you wish to add more drama. Simply pair your black dress with a neutral-tone handbag and simple slip-on slides.
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I adore the cinched in waist effect.
A slouched straw tote.
Easy slip-ons with contrasting white stitching.
4. Open Weave Maxi Dress + Tan Sandals
Style Notes: Peek a boo dresses have been inherited by French women and the weight is also well-suited to the unpredictable British forecast.
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You'll be grateful for the underlay.
New in at Christian Louboutin!
One of the most darling sandals on the market.
5. Polka Dot Dress + Strappy Heeled Sandals
Style Notes: It wouldn't be a French-style summer edit without a polka dot pick and luckily for wearers of the motif, it demands little to no extra attention. French women are adept at giving dresses a low-key spin, which often involves styling them with classic trainers if you wish to opt for something casual.
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It wouldn't be a French style edit without a hint of polka dot.
There's nothing like a white pair of trainers to bring about the feeling of summer.
6. Floral Dress + Heeled Sandals
Style Notes: Floral dresses are inherently French but there are more favoured styles than you may expect. While you may associate dark florals with autumn, there's something modern about wearing deep hues in the winter. Pair florals with metallic heels for weddings and formal occasions.
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Head to Rixo for vintage inspired frocks.
Take a note from Franny's styling and add a quirky shoe.
One year on and I still adore it.
7. Linen Dress + Flip Flops
Style Notes: Linen mini dresses are a hero piece in a summer capsule. They make an incredibly versatile addition given that they can be styles up or down. Let the easy-to-wear theme continue and pair it with slip on thong sandals.
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This is currently my favourite linen dress.
One thing guaranteed. Your cost per wear will whittle all the way down.
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