We’ll admit it—we have a thing for French style. This probably doesn’t come as a big surprise, as we’ve investigated everything from the swimsuit styles French girls avoid to the surprising outfit in their closets to the affordable denim they love. In other words, we’ve done our research narrowing in on how they achieve that je ne sais quoi, and now we’re diving into their summer wardrobes.
French It girls like Jeanne Damas, Sabina Socol, and Anne-Laure Mais seem to line their closets (and suitcases) with many of the same items and follow a few of the same rules. The guidelines are pretty straightforward. First, keep your palette neutral. Stick to classic shades like navy, white, and red, as well as earthy tones like tan and rust. You’ll have a hard time finding French girls wearing anything too jarring like neon. Next, when wearing prints, go for seasonless patterns. Much like an It bag that’s often associated with the time it debuted, prints can look tired after a few months. You can avoid making your outfit look like it’s dated by wearing prints like polka dots, gingham, and simple florals, which will always be in style. Last, you can never go wrong by following the lead of Jane Birkin. Whether it’s emulating her basket bag, cropped hemlines, or layered necklaces, she’s a constant source of inspiration for French girls.
Keep reading to see the eight pieces that define French summer style, then shop our favorite styles from Rouje, Réalisation, Reformation, and more.
Cat-eye sunglasses are an effortless way to nail a vintage look. Match a pair of retro white sunnies with a timeless statement blouse.
Cream shades are an easy way to lighten your look.
Wear these retro-influenced sunglasses with high-waisted jeans and a white tee.
These make any outfit pop.
A long summer dress with a bold pattern doesn’t require a lot of accessories. Do it the French way by throwing on a red lip with a simple bucket bag and you’re good to go.
Pretty floral prints instantly feel French.
This neckline is perfection.
Throw on a worn-in leather or denim jacket, depending on the season.
Add a woven bag into your warm-weather wardrobe. French girls take this bag everywhere from the city to the beach.
So versatile.
Forget digging through your purse—a structured bag makes finding your belongings so much easier.
The contrasting handles make this a unique pick.
Tuck in a solid-colored shirt and add basic shoes for a minimalistic look.
This French brand knows a thing or two about wardrobe basics.
Wear this pair as is or cuff at the ankles.
The perfect wash.
Channel your inner Jane Birkin. French girls are opting for vintage styles this summer, especially in their swimwear.
Minimalists are losing it over this bikini. Shop the matching Argentina Bottom ($79).
Wear this one-piece with cat-eye sunglasses.
Mix and match these bottoms with different colored bikini tops.
Don’t be afraid to wear a skirt that adds a pop of color. Pair it with a neutral top and strappy sandals for a casual look.
We can imagine Fraçoise Hardy wearing this style.
Wear this skirt with a breezy white top.
Wear a pair of mules with a classic denim skirt this summer.
A floral blouse is flawlessly complemented by a gold pendant necklace. In fact, French girls wear their necklaces with essentially every outfit—it’s their daily staple!
To wear with practically anything.
This brand is an It-girl favorite.
Layer this simple pendant with other gold necklaces.
Espadrilles were basically made for summer travel.
Wear these ankle-tie espadrilles with a printed midi dress.
These wedges are incredibly versatile.
Think of these as your everyday pair.
This post was published at an earlier date and has been updated.
