How to Shop French Style at Marks & Spencer

last updated 10 May 2024

Like so many others, I’ve been enamoured with French style for years. With that famous je ne sais quoi approach, the French seem to have the unique ability to whip up a smart and considered outfit with anything you throw their way. Ever inspired by the French fashion philosophy, I've taken to the British high street to assemble my top French-inspired picks from my favourite fashion brands. First stop, Marks & Spencer, a much-loved pillar of the UK high street.

Marks & Spencer is renowned for its no-fuss approach to creating high-quality garments at affordable price points. What's more, I hear that the brand is secretly a French-girl favourite for its excellent knits in natural fabrics, sturdy leather pieces and chic cuts. To shop like a French woman, it's important to look out for a few key things. Namely, we're only buying high-quality fabrics such as cotton, linen and cashmere. We're also keeping a keen eye trained on timeless designs that are anti-trend and able to be plucked out of our wardrobes season after season. Finally, it's important to shop for chic layering pieces that can build upon one another to create dynamic outfits and a wardrobe that works with itself seamlessly.

In a very French look, British influencer and Who What Wear contributor Monikh Dale wears Marks & Spencer's Tailored Double Breasted Waistcoat (£35) and Pleat Front Relaxed Wide Leg Trousers (45).

It just so happens that Marks & Spencer's current collection champions French flair, focusing on outfit-polishing jackets, luxurious accessories and easy-to-elevate basics that you'd be forgiven for assuming were designed with French women in mind.

Read on to discover my edit of the best French-fashion finds you can track down at M&S.

SHOP MY EDIT OF FRENCH STYLE FINDS AT M&S:

M&S Collection

Polka Dot V-Neck Maxi Wrap Dress

This pretty dress is perfect for day-to-night styling.

M&S Collection

The Wide-Leg Jeans

Wide-leg jeans are a Parisian must-have.

M&S Collection

Pure Linen Relaxed Shirt

Every French woman's wardrobe surely includes a white linen shirt.

M&S Collection

Cotton Rich Striped Crew Neck Cardigan

This striped cardigan will bring a classic touch to a summer outfit.

M&S Collection

Linen Rich Round Neck Midi Slip Dress

The perfect white dress.

M&S Collection

Leather Woven Flat Ballet Pumps

I can't believe these are from M&S—they look so much more expensive.

M&S Collection

Denim Crew Neck Vest Top

I'm obsessed with the scalloped hem.

M&S Collection

Pure Cotton Bardot Top

The Bardot neckline elevates this basic.

M&S Collection

Ruched Front V-Neck Vest

Style with gold jewellery and blue jeans.

M&S Collection

Linen Rich Single Breasted Blazer

A well-tailored blazer is the crux of so many great outfits.

M&S Collection

Straw Resin Handle Cross Body Grab Bag

Come summer, a basket bag is a non-negotiable.

M&S Collection

Denim Belted Ankle Grazer Jumpsuit

The French wardrobe always prioritises comfort, but in the most elegant ways.

M&S Collection

Pinstripe Longline Waistcoat

Turn to fresh white tailoring throughout the summer months.

M&S Collection

Pinstripe Tailored Wide Leg Trousers

Don't forget the matching trousers.

M&S Collection

Kitten Heel Slingback

Every wardrobe needs a hard-working pair of heels.

M&S Collection

Pointelle Textured V Neck Knitted Vest

In case you haven't heard, it's all about red this season.

M&S Collection

Cotton Rich Striped Midi Knitted Dress

An easy dress to toss on for errand runs or trips to the boulangerie.

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Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer. Having worked in the fashion industry since her time at university—where she obtained a BA in Journalism from University of the Arts London, Natalie's experience spans journalistic and styling roles. In the early stages of her career Natalie predominately worked on editorial shoots for fashion publications such as British Vogue, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK, before moving into journalism roles.

On completion of her degree she interned in the editorial team at British Vogue and later went on to freelance for the publication. Here, she developed her interest in reporting on the latest fashion news and trends. Inspired by the dynamic nature of the industry, Natalie went on to write for other lifestyle and fashion brands and publications before taking on the role as News Writer for Who What Wear.

With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Focusing on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion, Natalie reports on a daily basis, ensuring that she remains ahead of the trends. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.