Last summer, I spent a month in the South of France, an experience which reinforced my belief that French women are masters of warm weather dressing. Everywhere I turned, there was a chic display of fashion know-how: a white shirt tossed nonchalantly over a swimsuit; a designer basket bag slung over a sunkissed forearm; a cotton dress in the perfect shade of red.
Naturally, I'm looking to these style connoisseurs for guidance this summer too—with a whole new set of trends to navigate, I could use a helping hand. It should come as no surprise that Gallic women pick and choose their trends carefully. Known for their classic, comfort-first aesthetic, they're not the type to step out in a look just because everyone else is. So when we see our favourite French influencers rocking a trend, we know it's a good one.
This season, linen is a huge trend that's officially received the coveted seal of approval. Calling it a ‘trend’ might be misleading, since it's a fabrication that makes an appearance every year. It's breezy, effortless and lightweight even in high temperatures—for all these reasons and more, linen has reached peak popularity in recent summers. Predictably, we're particularly impressed by how French girls are wearing it, leaning into its easy-going nature and keeping the styling simple. Scroll on to see some of our most-loved linen outfits from the French fashion set so far.
1. White Linen Dress + Strappy Heels
Style Notes: Presenting the easiest formula on this list—all you need is a bright white dress that flatters you in all the right places, plus a comfortable pair of strappy sandals. Choose a low heel for the evening, or make the look daytime-appropriate with a ballet flat.
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Reformation dresses are made for summer.
This simple silhouette will serve you for many summers to come.
2. Waistcoat + Linen Midi Skirt + Snake-Effect Sandals
Style Notes: Another trend French women have adopted? Waistcoats. To create an ultra-current look, team a longline version with a billowy linen midi. The nipped-in waist will give shape to the voluminous skirt.
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M&S's tailoring is particularly good this spring/summer.
Such a timeless pair of sunnies.
Pull this on over your swimsuit next time you're headed to the beach.
A subtle print that will elevate the whole outfit.
3. Linen Co-Ord + Cotton Shirt
Style Notes: Linen-cords were the hero buy of last summer, particularly shirt-and-shorts sets. This year, it's striped styles that are leading the way, like Julie's.
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The perfect amount of slouch.
There isn't a single outfit these hoops wouldn't work with.
Striped linen is a micro trend we expect to see a lot of this summer.
4. Linen Blazer + Blue Jeans + Sandals
Style Notes: No need to ditch your blazers in warmer weather; a linen iteration will keep you cool and is just as versatile as a wool blazer. For an understated everyday look that comes French girl-approved, style it with straight-leg jeans and minimal sandals.
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Grab this before it inevitably sells out.
I can't tell you just how much I've worn my knit tank from last year.
Forever jeans.
Skip the embellishments and opt for a streamlined sandal this summer.
5. Linen Shirt + Skort + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: The simplest way into this trend is buying a linen shirt. You can pick one up in most high-street stores, and you'll find boundless ways to wear it. Äida makes a strong case for skorts with her elegant summer ensemble—I'm a big fan of the white-and-caramel colour palette.
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Tuck it into jeans, knot it at the waist and layer it over a dress or use it as a bikini cover-up.
Charles Keith makes great everyday bags.
Such a cute style with the bow wrap-tie.
Ballet flats are a core component of French wardrobes.
6. White Tee + Linen Trousers + Trainers
Style Notes: Franny's cool coffee date outfit epitomises just how relaxed this trending fabric is. If ballet flats and sandals feel too dainty for your taste, switch in a pair of chunky sneakers instead.
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The best tee on the high street, hands down.
I've just added these to my wish list.
Comfortable and stylish in equal measure.
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