It's Giving Paris—5 Peak-French Staples I Saw on My Trip to Montréal

I may not have visited Paris this summer, but I did take a weekend road trip out to Montréal, Québec, to have a local "French-girl summer." Despite it being a six-hour drive from New York, my morning coffee-shop trips and the surplus pastries purchased had me feeling like I was in Europe. While the food was fantastic, I couldn't help but take note of the fashion too. Since I did make it out to Paris last year, I thought playing a game of comparison would be fun. Parisians are known for their impeccable style, and while a lot of trends from abroad carried over to the Montréal streets, there was a more casual and laid-back approach within the Canadian city. I also perused local boutiques and the six-floor Ssense flagship to get an idea of the leading designer pieces and trends people were buying. (PSA: Prada's Supernova was a top favorite in Ssense's flagship and one of Paris's Prada stores.)

Below, I rounded up the five standout pieces I spotted around Montréal, including the ones I wore myself. If you're looking to add a bit of French style to your wardrobe but would rather have a more relaxed and casual-leaning approach, the list below has got you covered. 

1. Striped Sets

Matching sets are always trending, but striped sets are especially having a moment right now. (The more they look like pajamas, the better!) I spotted them around the city styled with sneakers, flats, and heels. I chose to wear a striped set on my trip, and I blended right in. It looks put-together yet is extremely comfortable—what's not to love?

2. Elevated White Tops

We all have a white T-shirt and tank we rely on, but a more detailed and elevated top is a must-have as well. They usually have one interesting design element that makes them stand out and easy to pair with classic items like jeans or trousers. I loved how Montréal folk took the minimal approach, often letting the top do the talking and foregoing a ton of accessories.

3. Classic Sneakers

What do Parisian and Montréal fashion people have in common? They love classic sneakers that go with everything. Considering I had to deal with blisters from walking the cobblestone with my barely-there sandals, I probably should've followed suit and brought a pair of sneakers. Now, I know for next time. 

4. Slip Skirts

When I hear "French," I think of classic pieces, and a slip skirt is one of those. I saw them styled with both oversize shirting and fitted tanks, but I think my favorite way to style it is how Erin's done above. 

5. Relaxed Denim

I saw way more jeans in Montréal than I did in Paris, and honestly, I'm on board. Considering I wear jeans a few times a week, I'm cool with the casual item being worn with more elevated pieces like blazers, pretty tops, etc.