French style is consistently alluring given the fashion set's effortless approach to dressing. As a result, we, the editors at WWW, follow a range of Parisians on Instagram for outfit ideas that are easy and chic. After scrolling through a slew of images, it became evident that there are a few elegant basics many women in Paris are wearing and seemingly prioritising over other basics. Oh, and by elegant basics, we're referring to those highly versatile items that are simple but refined and sleek.
Below, you'll uncover the elegant basics in question, showcased by some of our favourite French follows. You'll notice that each basic acts as a foundational element in each look and could also be styled with a range of other items. If you're interested in adding one of the pieces to your own capsule wardrobe, there are shopping recommendations that would totally be approved by Parisians.
8 ELEGANT BASICS FRENCH WOMEN RELY ON:
1. Satin Skirt
Style Notes: A satin skirt is about as elegant as it gets. You can wear one with anything on top, and you'll have yourself a chic look.
Shop the Look:
This is incredibly versatile. Wear it with sneakers or ballet flats during the day then switch to heels come evening.
I love that there's a matching shirt, too.
This longline skirt comes in several different colours and prints.
2. Cinched-In Jacket
Style Notes: Tailored jackets with a cinched-in silhouette are trending hard right now and create a sleek, refined silhouette.
Shop the Look:
An elevated take on the classic blazer.
A lifetime investment piece.
Black will always look chic.
3. White T-Shirt
Style Notes: There's no denying the ease of a white tee. A fitted style like this one is just so elegant with a skirt or pair of jeans.
Shop the Look:
I'm into this loose fit.
An everyday kind of tee.
If you prefer a cropped cut, try this Reiss style.
4. Blue Button-Down Shirt
Style Notes: A button-down shirt is inherently chic. While white shirts are a forever favorite among the French style set, blue styles are another top pick.
Shop the Look:
BRB, I'm off to re-create this entire look.
Denim shirts count too.
You can't go wrong with Sézane!
5. Wide-Leg/Flared Jeans
Style Notes: In the denim realm, it's all about wide-leg styles and flared jeans, especially in slightly darker washes, and they feel most elegant with other basics.
Shop the Look:
These have a distinctly vintage feel.
Don't overlook the power of Other Stories' jeans.
With a contemporary finish!
6. Trench Coat
Style Notes: It probably doesn't come as much of a surprise that a trusty trench coat rounds out this list. You can toss one over any look and give the ensemble a more polished feel.
Shop the Look:
H&M makes some of the best trench coats on the high street.
One of Sezane's best selling products.
Timeless pieces like this are well worth the investment.
7. Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Ballet flats are a French girl favourite, especially when paired with flowy skirts and maxi dresses.
Shop the Look:
Perfection from every angle.
Such a contemporary shape.
A directional take on the Mary-jane.
8. Black Dress
Style Notes: The LBD is a much-loved piece and this season, it's less about the little. This year, full-skirted flouncy styles have been celebrated, even during cold weather days.
Shop the Look:
A timeless silhouette.
Note the neckline.
Sometimes a LBD with a twist is just what a capsule wardrobe needs.
This story originally appeared onBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing US and has since been updated.
-
When I Saw Parisians Wearing These 5 Trainer Trends, I Knew They Were Here to StaySome of them might surprise you.
-
My Colleague Just Got Back From Paris—She Saw This Chic Trouser-and-Shoe Combo on Every StreetNo-brainer elegance.
-
Black Heels Are Fine, But in France, Everyone Knows This Shoe Colour Looks Better With White DressesSpotted at Versailles.
-
8 Classic Outfits to Try This Summer If You're a French Girl at Heart (Like Me)Chic.
-
7 Simple But Chic Summer Trends Stylish Women Across France Are Wearing NowFrom Paris to Provence.
-
Summer Is Here! 4 Fun and Incredibly Chic Colour Combinations I've Spotted Fashion People WearingPerfect pairings.
-
I'm Heading to the South of France—15 Outfits I'm Re-Creating to Look Like a LocalEuro summer loading…
-
Forget a White T-Shirt—This Pretty Top Is the Hero of My Summer WardrobeAnd it looks so chic with jeans, shorts and skirts.
