Pre-Instagram, we might've had to rely on fashion week for our street style roundups, but when it comes to experiencing global style in 2024, we're spoilt for choice. Not only does social media allow us to see the outfits of people on every continent at the click of a button, but it also gives us a chance to reassess the sartorial tropes that have developed around certain countries.
One of the most well-worn fashion stereotypes has to be that of the French girl. This classic French fashion type is characterised by expensive basics, Breton tops, silk shirts and tasteful yet subdued occasionwear—all of which is embodied by the likes of Carine Roitfeld and Emmanuelle Alt.
While there are many who still love the traditional, pared-back aesthetic, Instagram proves that it is no longer representative of the average fashion-loving Parisienne, with influencers such as Camille Charrière and Ellie Delphine from Slip Into Style bringing a more experimental approach to the table while still managing to be chic at all times, of course.
"We love a statement shoe, an extravagant piece of costume jewellery, a flashy print or one piece that will make heads turn," says Ellie.
To get a better sense of what classic French style looks like in 2024, we scoured the feeds of our favourite Gallic girls to see the outfit formulas they wear on repeat. From cool co-ords to trainers with everything, scroll down to see what it takes to perfect classic French style now.
1. BLAZER + JEANS
Style Notes: The best classic outfit combinations are made up of key wardrobe staples, and none are more versatile than blazers and jeans. Aïda ensures her pairing stays on the interesting side by opting for an oversized blazer silhouette in a hue that contrasts her light-wash denim.
Shop the Look:
A black blazer is a wardrobe must-have.
So many of our editors have this exact t-shirt.
The A-list approved jeans.
2. A TOUCH OF SHEER
Style Notes: Camille is a strong advocate of the sheer look—she even wore a sheer lace dress for her wedding day. Parisian style is all about balancing sexiness with polish, and pairing a sheer top with a pencil skirt is a perfect way to do it.
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An introduction to the sheer look.
This could easily go from day to night.
Bonus points for the kitten heel, which is trending this year.
3. KNIT DRESS + ANKLE BOOTS
Style Notes: Ellie from Slip Into Style is usually one to throw out the French style rule book, but sometimes, she sticks to classic wardrobe staples. The knit dress has become an essential over the past few years, and it's all about versatility. With ankle boots in the winter and sandals in the spring, it's a fail-safe option that'll deliver endless outfit opportunities.
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A truly timeless dress.
These boots work with everything.
4. SHEARLING JACKET + WIDE-LEG TROUSERS
Style Notes: Shearling jackets are a cover-up French fashion types have long championed. With roots in the '70s aesthetic—something many Parisiennes subscribe to—they certainly fall into the classic style category. The same goes for wide-leg trousers, which never seem to date.
Shop the Look:
So many influencers are after this jacket.
The Frankie Shop's tailoring is unmatched.
French girls have very much embraced the Dad sneaker trend.
5. SIMPLE JUMPER + PLEATED SKIRT
Style Notes: Pleated skirts may be popping up in London, but French girls? They've been wearing them for a very long time. Never too tethered to a specific season, this is an item you can pull out year-round and style in a multitude of ways. My favourite combination involves a classic crew-neck knit.
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Such a versatile colour.
The ultimate base layer.
Does this remind you of your school uniform days?
6. SHIRT + ROLL-NECK
Style Notes: A styling hack everyone should know is the shirt over roll-neck. Clever layering is something French women do best, and this just so happens to be one of the coolest combos around this time of year. Extending the life of your favourite summer shirt and adding extra warmth with the roll-neck? What's not to love?
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Supremely elegant.
You could layer this under so many pieces.
I've had my eye on these jeans for so long...
7. CARDIGAN + HIGH-WAISTED JEANS
Style Notes: Clearly, it's not just us Brits who love a granny-chic knit. Jeanne Damas is proof that even the most traditionally Parisian dresser can enjoy the aesthetic. The secret is to pair your could-be-passed-down-from-granny cardigan with high-waisted jeans and loafers.
Shop the Look:
Tap into the coquette aesthetic.
I'm such a fan of Mango's denim.
The perfect finishing touch.
Next Up: I'm On the Hunt For Fresh Outfit Inspo—5 Cool Looks I've Added to My Saved Folder
This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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