We are seeing “French Girl Style” all over the map as of late, and for good reason. There is something undeniably chic about this way of dressing. French girl style is the perfect combination of elegance and effortless, timeless yet contemporary. We are breaking down the details of French Girl Fashion to help you achieve that je ne sais quoi.

The French style profile is simple and clean, with mixed elements of dressy and casual. Rather than trendy and/or flashy pieces, the French tend to focus on classic clothing and a neutral color palette. Simplicity and quality are key and make the perfect starting point for building your wardrobe.

FRENCH BRANDS TO LOVE

When it comes to shopping, the best way to lean into the French aesthetic is by shopping from French designers and retailers. This is also a great way to gain inspiration for pieces that are trending and how they are being styled. Here are a few great brands to explore.

Sézane

What makes Sézane unique is its focus on quality pieces at fair prices without intermediaries. Everything they make is carefully crafted in small batches, so it is never overproduced. Bonus: They just opened a new storefront in Nashville!

Woman with long dark hair wearing a white long-sleeve blouse with ruffled details and light-patterned pants, showcasing effortless style against a plain blue background.Pin
Mellisa blouse, $175, at Sézane | Image: Sézane

Eres

A go-to for swimwear and undergarments, this brand keeps to classic colors and simple prints. These are timeless pieces that won’t go out of style.

A woman stands against a white background wearing a strapless black one-piece swimsuit, channeling effortless style with a touch of French girl style.Pin
Bustier one-piece, $615, at Eres | Image: Eres

Ba&Sh

A brand founded by women, for women. The pieces in their collections are feminine and effortless, the perfect mix of playfulness and elegance.

Channeling effortless style, a woman in a short-sleeve, striped knit maxi dress with a side slit, holding a woven bag and wearing flat strappy sandals, stands against a plain light background.Pin
Tonnie long dress, $375, at ba&sh | Image: ba&sh

Sandro

If you’re looking for day-to-day wear that brings basics up a notch, you will love shopping at Sandro.

A woman stands against a plain background in a sleeveless black knit top and matching midi skirt, paired with black loafers—an embodiment of effortless style.Pin
Beaded dress, $480, at Sandro | Image: Sandro

Celine

If you’re a lover of classic sophistication with an emphasis on leather goods, this is a designer you will love.

Brown leather bucket bag with a top handle, detachable shoulder strap, and gold-tone hardware featuring a decorative logo on the front—perfect for capturing that effortless French girl style.Pin
Medium bucket ‘Louise,’ $3,400, at Celine | Image: Celine

Other brands we love:

SHOPPING LIST

Now that you know where to shop and what styles to look for, here is your comprehensive shopping list to make sure your Parisian pursuits are carried from head to toe.

Versatile ballet flat

Ballet flats are a closet staple. A fashionable, comfortable, and versatile footwear choice because of their elegant design that complements a wide range of outfits, from casual to formal.

A pair of beige ballet flats with black capped toes, bow accents, and "Steve Madden" labels on the insoles, embodying French girl style, photographed from above on a white background.Pin
Eternal natural multi flat, $79.95, at Steve Madden | Image: Steve Madden

Crisp Poplin Button Down

Unlike trendy pieces that come and go, the button-down shirt has remained a classic for decades. Its simple design and clean lines make it a wardrobe essential that creates a polished look with minimal effort.

Person wearing a white button-up shirt with the top buttons undone, blue jeans, and a necklace, standing against a plain beige background, channeling effortless style inspired by French fashion.Pin
Petite garçon classic shirt, $98, at J.Crew | Image: J.Crew

Timeless Trouser

When shopping for trousers that have the effortless French girl style, opt for classic silhouettes such as straight or tapered leg.

A person showcases effortless style in a sleeveless white top, beige wide-leg trousers with a black belt, and black shoes, standing against a plain light background with hands in pockets.Pin
Mason pant, $188, at Reformation | Image: Reformation

Tailored Blazer

Look for a fit that is snug but not restricting. A blazer is a great way to elevate a simple t-shirt and jean combo, or pair back over a dress.

A person channels French Girl Style, wearing a cream-colored blazer over a black and white striped shirt and light blue jeans, standing against a neutral background.Pin
Christie jacket, $225, at Sézane | Image: Sézane

White Sneaker

Sneakers can be styled with everything from jeans, dresses, skirts, and more. Practical and timeless, the white sneaker does it all. When shopping for a white sneaker, opt for a minimal style with subtle details.

A pair of white athletic sneakers with laces resting on dark wooden stairs, positioned against a weathered wooden wall—capturing effortless style with a hint of French girl style charm.Pin
Paris sneakers, $90, at Kizik | Image: Kizik

Carryall Tote

Blending style and functionality, the carry-all tote is your go-to bag. Whether heading to work, travel, or dinner, all of your items can come along. Look for durable fabrics such as leather or canvas and comfortable straps.

A person in a white dress showcases effortless style, holding a large black leather handbag with wide handles while standing against a plain white background.Pin
Freja Bleecker large tote, $398, at Anthropologie | Image: Anthropologie

Black Sunglasses

A chic accessory that complements the minimal aesthetic of French style. Cat eye, aviator, and round shapes are ones to consider when shopping.

Woman with dark hair in a sleek ponytail wearing black oval sunglasses, gold hoop earrings, layered chain necklaces, and a sleeveless dark top—an effortless style that channels classic French girl style.Pin
Sunglasses, $99, at Le Specs | Image: Le Specs

Go-To Denim

While searching for your go-to denim, opt for well-fitting styles like straight-leg or slightly tapered jeans with a mid- to dark wash. Avoid overly distressed or embellished denim for a classic look.

A person wearing high-waisted, straight-leg blue jeans and black sneakers, shown from the waist down against a white background—an effortless style inspired by French girl style.Pin
501 90s ankle straight jeans, $98, at Revolve | Image: Revolve

Classic Dress

While trends are worth keeping an eye on, French style tends to lean into timeless, minimal pieces. When shopping for a classic dress you can pull out season after season, look for one with neutral colors, clean lines, and quality fabric.

A woman stands against a gray background wearing a sleeveless, white, ankle-length dress with a square neckline and light gray lace-up flats, capturing effortless style inspired by French fashion.Pin
Everett linen dress, $298, at Reformation | Image: Reformation

The Parisian way is to lean into simplicity over perfection. Effortless elegance is achieved when you don’t overthink it and select the items that speak to you. But at the end of the day, the French would agree, confidence is the best thing you can wear!

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Caitlin Costello
About the Author
Caitlin Costello

Founder of Nashville-based wardrobe styling company, Affiner, Caitlin Costello is a fashion stylist with over 15 years of experience making clients feel like their best selves.