Whether or not you've actually visited the French capital, you're likely familiar with the archetype of the Parisian aesthetic. Marked by dishevelled hair, a classic red lip and an effortless, low-key ensemble, the French-girl look is a well-known style trope with roots in the early 1950s.
Popularised by the likes of Brigitte Bardot and Jane Birkin (a Brit with so much je ne sais quoi), French style has since been reimagined by modern-day influencers including Sabina Socol and Ellie Delphine. While classic jeans, a white tee and a basket bag are still prevalent, the look now includes slip skirts, blazers, corduroy trousers, cable-knit cardigans and more. Of course, the French approach to beauty and style is more pertinent than the clothes themselves. The look is low-maintenance, slightly carefree and just "undone" enough.
We're pleased to report that plenty of Parisian It girls still cherish the classic French style code to some degree, making it that much easier for us to spot and dissect their outfit formulas. Below, shop the chic French outfits that we believe will never go out of style, courtesy of our favourite fashion influencers.
1. CHUNKY CARDIGANS
If we could pick one article of clothing that has characterised French-girl style over the last few months, it would be the cable-knit cardigan. While the look is popular the globe over, French influencers like Sabina Socol and Anne-Laure Mais have given it the Parisian stamp of approval, pairing the style with everything from jeans and trousers to dresses and slip skirts. Mais even designed various versions of the classic cardigan for her clothing brand, Musier Paris.
2. STATEMENT COLLARS
The retro statement collar has made its rounds among the fashion set thanks to brands like Miu Miu and Ganni. French influencers, such as Ellie Delphine of Slip Into Style, have embraced the look with open arms, balancing the prairie-style top with black leather and structured trousers. If the bib collar is a bit too much for you, collared polos offer a subtler take on the trend.
3. SLIP SKIRT + MULES
The slip skirt–and-mules combo took root a few years ago, and French It girls like Mais have clearly taken to it. We predict that this outfit formula will continue to stand the test of time. It's comfortable, practical and just dressy enough. You can now buy a slip skirt in every colour, print and fabric imaginable, and designers like BY FAR and Staud continue to pioneer the resurgence of open-toed mule sandals.
4. GOING-OUT TOP + JEANS
The French fashion set has perfected the casual going-out look in the form of jeans and a trendy top. From puff-sleeve organza crops to Insta-famous Reformation frocks in every cut and colour, a flattering going-out top could be considered a Parisian style essential. Pair your chosen look with classic light-wash Levi's and strappy sandals. You literally can't go wrong.
5. CLASSIC BUTTON-DOWN + WIDE-LEG PANTS
There's nothing more classic than a menswear-inspired button-down shirt, so of course, it's a French style staple. Whether you opt for a crisp white or a trendy leopard print, take notes from Parisian influencer Loïcka Grâce, and wear your cuffs and hems long, and even try layering with a vest.
6. KNIT POLO + JEANS
We're endlessly obsessed with the combo of a knit polo and jeans, especially when the key colors of the year are involved, like pink. Keep it low-key with pair of sleek boots.
7. THE CLASSIC FLORAL DRESS
This list wouldn't be complete without a classic floral dress. A wardrobe staple, this effortless look epitomises that je ne sais quoi that French style is all about—especially when paired with espadrille wedges, a woven bag and dainty gold jewellery. Sweep your hair up into a claw clip to complete the look. For cooler months, just add a great pair of ankle boots.
8. COAT + KNITTED DRESS
Chic coats have long been a part of the French-girl style quotient, and Parisian influencers like Sabina Socol have brought it up-to-date with this ensemble. Opt for a classic colour and add your favourite tonal knitted dress.
9. HEAD-TO-TOE TONAL
You simply can't go wrong with a head-to-toe colour palette, especially when it involves a classic white button-down. Take notes from native Parisian Claire Most, and pair a tan top with white jeans and a crisp overshirt for an effortlessly chic ensemble.
10. VINTAGE-INSPIRED GRAPHIC TEES
Last but not least, we'll always love a good graphic tee. The vintage-inspired look has been a wardrobe essential for the last five years or so, and French girls have paired it with everything from skinny jeans and biker jackets to midi skirts and heels.
This post was originally published on Who What Wear U.S. and has since been updated. Next up, what a Brit girl in Paris wears with her jeans.