Calling It: Every Chic Item French Girls Will Wear on Repeat Next Year
If you're anything like me, these winter months (and The White Lotus) have you dreaming of a European summer. Posting up in the Marais, washing down pistachio gelato with an ice-cold Sancerre, and hitting those legendary French soldes all sound like good enough reason to peruse Expedia. But whether or not Europe is in the cards next year, French dressing can still be within reach.
The key to shopping like the French? Balancing practicality with style while leaving room for a little flair. French women have mastered the art of eschewing trends for more timeless pieces, meaning these purchases will serve you well beyond the year ahead. Read on for all the items our cross-Atlantic counterparts will be stocking their closets with. (Trust me—it'll be cheaper than that Air France ticket.)
Well-Tailored Pants
A flattering pair of pants is a wardrobe game changer. These pairs easily transition from le boardroom to le bar (and everywhere in between).
Don't let the elastic waistband fool you. These slim-fit suit pants don't sacrifice style for comfort.
Bonus: These come in three lengths, so no hemming required.
The best part of these pants isn't the smoothing ponte fabric or flattering wide cut (although, both are absolutely true); it's that they're machine washable.
I own these pants in three colors and have my eye on a fourth. Trust me, they won't disappoint.
Midi Skirts
A good midi skirt is a fabulous alternative to pants (and looks equally killer with sneakers or strappy sandals).
Florals! Not just for spring. This moody winter rose print will get you through the post-holiday blues.
Lace Accents
A lace detail adds a je ne sais quoi to any look. It’s somehow both sexy and gamine and will dress anything up.
When you're feeling more Paris, Texas, than Paris, France.
Saucy lace cutouts in addition to velvet make this a no-brainer for holiday soirées.
Why should your outerwear have all the fun? Layer this under the above top for a lace-on-lace moment.
Stripes
Popularized by French sailors, the Breton stripe has been a fashion mainstay for ages—and it isn't going anywhere. A must-have, whether you plan to be nautical or nice this season.
An option for those with or expecting a bébé.
Mary Janes
Because Paris is a city best explored on foot, a proper shoe is necessary. Navigating the cobblestone streets of France is no easy feat, which is why you rarely see sky-high stilettos. A flat or low-heeled Mary Jane makes catching the metro or taking a quick jaunt to your local tabac a breeze.
If you're not having said pistachio gelato in Paris, why not treat yourself to an equally delectable option to wear?
Up next, check out How 9 French Women Stay Looking Trés Chic Throughout Winter.
-
Simone Ashley Is in the Fast Lane
Since her breakout role in Bridgerton, our Spring Issue cover star has quickly risen to A-list status. Up next, she masters the rom-com leading lady.
By Liv Little
-
The Spring 2025 Shopping Guide: Where to Buy the Biggest Trends of the Season
Your short list of the season's key buys.
By Kristen Nichols
-
Step Aside, Leopard Print—This Is Unquestionably 2025's It Print
Alaïa and Zara both agree.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
Lila Moss Just Wore the Prada Bag Everyone Wants But No One Can Find
It's so cute.
By Drew Elovitz
-
5 Chic Outfits From Parisians and New Yorkers That Are On-Trend for Spring
Next-level looks.
By Bobby Schuessler
-
Zara Just Delivered 8 Spring Shoe Trends That Will Make Your Outfits Look 10 Times Chicer
From chic T-bar silhouettes to cherry-red shoes.
By Judith Jones
-
Wait—Did Elsa Hosk Just Intro the New It Bag of 2025?
One word: Prada.
By Allyson Payer
-
29 Spring Items From Free People That I'm Shopping for 2025
These are going to go quickly.
By Chichi Offor
-
I'm Transitioning My Wardrobe Into Spring—32 Items I'm Eyeing From Revolve, Ref, and Net-a-Porter
Spring is in the air.
By Caitlin Burnett
-
Mikey Madison Just Wore the Reformation Basic Every Smart Shopper Owns
Including this editor.
By Allyson Payer