Although the allure of French style spans all seasons, regions and decades, no one excels at effortless styling for warm weather quite like French women. Laid back, subtle and bearing the essence of the no-make-up look (but for clothing), every element is intentional but quietly so. They create and model some of the most sought-after dress styles that are celebrated across the globe.
Style Notes: French women wear knitted dresses and maxis year round. They can be worn at home, for day events and events alike. Simply add your footwear of choice.
French women's dress style exceeds the floral print, wrap and tea dresses that are commonly associated with Parisian women. In recent years, they’ve inherited noughties-inspired pieces and made them a permanent fixture. They're typically fashion-forward and accustomed to a trend or two but when they do, they adopt them for a lifetime and are admirably discerning about their acquirements. Take Y2K, its reformed eveningwear and the svelte shapes have a distinctive French characteristic, which makes the style slot seamlessly into a French women’s capsule. French women are also often seen donning risqué fabrications, long silhouettes, full-sleeved bias cuts and of course, minis thrown in for good measure. It was the stomping ground of style maven Bridget Bardot, after all.
Style Notes: Classic slip dresses are integral to the French aesthetic, especially when worn minimally.
There are several style notes I’ve made whilst studying fashion types in Paris. There’s a prevalence of pointelle, on-the-knee garments and downplaying floral motifs. Bloom-adorned clothing which would otherwise be destined for weddings is worn daily with trainers and down-to-earth ballerinas, loaning it a laid-back appeal. Other non-traditional styles are made wearable with worn-in denim and hardened materials, like leather. Like many, I’m enamoured by the effortless appeal of French women's style. Keep scrolling for seven easy-to-wear French girl-inspired summer dress outfits I’ll be wearing this season.
See the Seven Summer Dress Outfits I've Spotted French Women Wearing:
1. Midi Dress + Mary-Jane Shoes
Style Notes: There's an effortless appeal to this outfit. Although the fabrication is detailed the oversized shirt and flat shoes make it a piece you can wear during the day. Remove the outer layer as needed.
Shop the Look:
A sleek basic you can wear from summer to winter.
You can easily dress this style up or down.
These contemporary flats will uplift classic outfits.
2. Mini Slip Dress + Mules
Style Notes: As Sylvie demonstrates, you can't go wrong with simplicity. Pair classic elements together and you'll have an instantly timeless outfit.
Shop the Look:
If your wardrobe consists of black and white, why not add grey into the mix? Wear a slip dress with anything from trainers to mules.
It's going strong years after its initial release for good reason.
A shoe capsule hero!
There's a French lilt to hobo bags and Arket craft some of the best on the high street.
3. Black Midi Dress + Slides
Style Notes: Opt for full silhouettes, if you wish to add more drama. Simply pair your black dress with a neutral-tone handbag and simple slip-on slides.
Shop the Look:
I adore the cinched in waist effect.
Easy slip-ons with contrasting white stitching.
A straw tote you'll be able to fit everything in.
4. Knitted Maxi Dress + Tan Sandals
Style Notes: Peek a boo dresses have been inherited by French women and the weight is also well-suited to the unpredictable British forecast.
Shop the Look:
You'll be grateful for the underlay.
One of the most darling sandals on the market.
For the logo enthusiasts.
5. Polka Dot Dress + Minimalist Trainers
Style Notes: It wouldn't be a French-style summer edit without a polka dot pick and luckily for wearers of the motif, it demands little to no extra attention. French women are adept at giving dresses a low-key spin, which often involves styling them with classic trainers if you wish to opt for something casual.
Shop the Look:
It wouldn't be a French style edit without a hint of polka dot.
There's nothing like a white pair of trainers to bring about the feeling of summer.
The finishing touch.
6. Floral Dress + Metallic Sandals
Style Notes: Floral dresses are inherently French but there are more favoured styles than you may expect. While you may associate dark florals with autumn, there's something modern about wearing deep hues in the winter. Pair florals with metallic heels for weddings and formal occasions.
Shop the Look:
Head to Rixo for vintage inspired frocks.
Take a note from Franny's styling and add a quirky shoe.
This could genuinely pass as designer.
7. Linen Mini Dress + Leather Flip Flops
Style Notes: Linen mini dresses are a hero piece in a summer capsule. They make an incredibly versatile addition given that they can be styles up or down. Let the easy-to-wear theme continue and pair it with slip on thong sandals.
Shop the Look:
This is currently my favourite linen mini dress.
One thing guaranteed. Your cost per wear will whittle all the way down.
-
If You're Trying to Dress Like a French Woman This Fall, Skip These Denim TrendsThe first one pains me to say.
-
Reformation's Summer Sale Is Now 50% Off—23 Pieces to See Before It EndsThe brand's biggest sale of the year.
-
In Paris, L.A., and London, Basic White Tees Are Getting Sidelined In Favor of This Cooler AltWe'll always love you, but it's not your turn right now.
-
This Simple Fashion-Person Approved Layering Technique Changed the Way I Wear My BasicsEffortlessly cool.
-
Holy Ref! Holier COS! These 27 Finds Just Got Me So Excited for Fall (Sorry, Summer—I'm Over You)These buys plus a Gilmore Girls rewatch.
-
Bella Hadid Just Wore the Elegant Heel Trend French Women Are Favoring Over SandalsIt's got that je ne sais quoi.
-
Hold the Light-Blue Jeans—People in Paris Know This Denim Trend Is Far Superior for FallIt's so elegant.
-
My Friend Wants to Look More Parisian—I Suggested She Wear These 4 PiecesEasy and chic vibes.
