The Chicest French Women Wear These 10 Basics—I Found Them at H&M for Under $75

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(Image credit: @lenafarl)

I may as well have a Ph.D. in French dressing, considering the amount I write and research on the topic for Who What Wear. What can I say? I’m a French girl at heart, and I’m obsessed with their effortlessly chic aesthetic. 

As you know by now, French women have the uncanny ability to look polished and put together in a way that doesn’t look like they tried too hard. Their outfits are often comprised of chic and elevated basics styled in simple and effortless ways. Today I wanted to share 10 chic staples I think French women will wear on repeat this summer. And the best part? Getting that French look doesn’t need to cost a fortune. In fact, I found every cool basic for under $75 at H&M. From chic tank tops to slip dresses, take a peek below if you’re summer vibe is French girl.

Chic Tank Tops

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

French women rely on chic and easy tank tops once the warm weather rolls around. They style them with everything from midi skirts to jeans.

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Relaxed Tailored Trousers

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(Image credit: @leasy_inparis)

When Parisians aren't wearing jeans, relaxed tailored trousers is one of their go-to styles to pair with tank tops and button-downs. Style with a classic belt for a more polished look.

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Printed Dress

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(Image credit: @vikilefevre)

A printed summer dress remains a staple in French women's warm-weather wardrobes. Whether you go for a slip silhouette, or a vintage-inspired style, it's one of the easiest options to throw on this summer.

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Straight-Leg Jeans

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(Image credit: @annelauremais)

Jeans are basically a second skin to the French. You'll always find a '90s-inspired straight-leg silhouette in their wardrobe. 

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Relaxed Button-Down

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(Image credit: @saraloura)

If there's one item stylish French women wear year-round, it's a relaxed and effortless button-down shirt. Opt for one in white, blue, or stripes for the utmost versatility. 

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Miniskirts

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(Image credit: @annelauremais)

While French women are partial to all different lengths of skirts, from sleek slip midi skirts to denim maxi skirts, miniskirts have got to be the style I'm seeing on repeat this summer. Style them with everything from casual tees to polished vests.

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Espadrilles

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(Image credit: @lenafarl)

Is it even summer in France without a pair of espadrilles? Whether you pick wedges or flats, they're easy to wear with dresses, skirts, shorts, and breezy pants.

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Denim Shorts

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(Image credit: @tamaramory)

A timeless basic that will never go out of style for the French fashion set is a pair of vintage-inspired denim shorts. Add a touch of polish to the look and style with elevated pieces such as a chic button-down and ballet flats.

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Natural Texture Bags

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(Image credit: @juliesfi)

From raffia bags to straw totes, there is no denying the French fashion set's love for bags made from natural materials. It adds the perfect laissez-faire summer touch to any look.

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Minimal Slip Dress

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

The most versatile piece to pair with sandals or wedges? A sleek minimal dress always looks effortlessly chic.

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Next, 8 Uncomplicated Outfits I'm Stealing From Stylish Parisians This Summer.

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Judith Jones
Senior Fashion Market Editor

Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.