8 Quintessentially French Outfits I Found at J.Crew

I love to get out of my L.A. bubble and see fashion through other people's lenses. I've taken inspiration from the Scandi style set, contemporary Asian designers, Italian influencers, British women, Latin American brands—the list goes on. Right now, however, I'm particularly excited about French style as it perfectly encapsulates my ideal vibe for summer 2023.

For this story, I challenged myself to create eight quintessentially French outfits using pieces from J.Crew. Not to toot my own horn, but I think I hit it out of the park with this one. While J.Crew is known for being a classically American brand, the retailer has several Parisian-esque pieces I think you'll love. Keep scrolling to shop my favorite French-inspired summer buys from J.Crew.

1. Striped Rugby Sweater + Shorts

french-inspired-jcrew-pieces-307765-1686606203570-image

(Image credit: @annelauremais)

I always associate French style with stripes—and for a good reason. Stylish Parisians such as Anne-Laure Mais wear stripes with abandon. I particularly love a thick rugby-style top for summer 2023.

2. Gingham Dress + Espadrilles

Gingham and French style go together like PB&J. The ruffled minidress below is currently one of my favorite pieces at J.Crew. Styled with red espadrilles and a contrast-print bag and you're good to go.

3. Crochet Dress + Heeled Flip-Flops

french-inspired-jcrew-pieces-307765-1686605511315-image

(Image credit: @salome.mory)

Without fail, I always bust out my favorite crochet pieces every summer. A crochet outfit will score you plenty of compliments and is perfect for a breath picnic or a poolside BBQ.

4. White Button-Down + Chino Shorts

french-inspired-jcrew-pieces-307765-1686606987554-image

(Image credit: @melodiebance)

Inspired by Melodie Bance, this laid-back look is perfect if you want to take a break from dresses and skirts this summer. Consider buying a white button-up in a larger size larger than your regular size for a more chill vibe.

5. Slip Dress + Cropped Cardigan

french-inspired-jcrew-pieces-307765-1686607538621-image

(Image credit: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)

Jeanne Damas never misses. If she's into sleek slip dresses, then so am I. Just throw on a cropped cardigan and a pair of heels, and you're off.

6. Swimsuit + Linen Shorts

A basic black swimsuit will always be a smart investment. Styled with linen shorts, a colorful rope bag, and a striped beach towel, the swimsuit is suddenly chic and not boring.

7. Tank Top + Pencil Skirt

french-inspired-jcrew-pieces-307765-1686605871247-image

(Image credit: @leaisfez)

Sometimes less is more. That seemed to be Leia Sfez's motto when she wore this black-and-white outfit. I found a strikingly similar faux leather pencil skirt from J.Crew that I think you'll adore.

8. Striped Top + Wide-Leg Jeans

So many stripes and so little time. I love this one-shoulder top that's currently on sale for just $20. Style it with wide-leg jeans and ballet flats for the ultimate French look.

Next, I just got back from Mallorca—here's the outfit formula I wore every day

Erin Fitzpatrick
Senior News Editor

Erin got her start as a Who What Wear intern over 12 years ago—back when the site only published a single story per day. (Who What Wear has since increased that number twentyfold.) She graduated magna cum laude from USC, which is how she ended up moving to Los Angeles from her hometown of San Diego. In college, she also interned at Refinery29, where she was promoted to editorial assistant and then assistant editor. After nearly three years at R29, she came back to WWW in 2016, where she currently holds the title of senior news editor (as well as the unofficial title of resident royal expert—in case you haven't noticed her numerous Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton stories). She spends her days trying to incorporate her idols, Anna Wintour and Roger Federer, into as many stories as possible. Outside of work, she loves tennis, classic rock, traveling, and smothering her dog with affection.