One thing we've noticed about French women is their shared ability to breathe new life into older trends—looks some might even deem "dated". But with their natural flair and laid-back approach to styling, they have influenced us to wear a trend we previously wrote off: corduroy. While this retro fabric has long been considered a basic, we haven't seen it as much in the last few years. But make no mistake—if you follow the Gallic dress code, it's one of the season's biggest trends.
Although the material has roots in the '70s, French women are giving their corduroy staples a modern feel, wearing them in fresh new ways. Take Julie Sergent Ferreri, whose bright-pink corduroy suit feels so fresh. And Franny Fyne? She makes her classic tan corduroy blazer feel bang up to date with the addition of crisp ecru denim and on-trend cowboy boots. Throw in a look from Camille Charrière that involves a corduroy miniskirt and a leather jacket, and it's clear that corduroy is an integral part of the current French wardrobe.
Scroll on to see six French-woman corduroy outfits that have convinced us to dig out our long-forgotten corduroy pieces once more. Don't worry, however, if you haven't already invested in the trend—we've outlined essential buys in the fabric for you below, too.
1. KEEP IT SIMPLE
Style Notes: Put the fun back into trousers. Tamara Mory keeps it simple by teaming a dark-green pair with a logo tee.
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A chic addition to your jersey basics.
Arguably just as versatile as denim.
A French girl's hair accessory of choice.
2. INVEST IN A VERSATILE MINI
Style Notes: You might not think there’s a place for corduroy skirts in the fashion-girl uniform, but as Camille Charrière proves, they look incredible paired with trending pieces such as platform boots and leather blazers.
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A leather blazer is a classic in my opinion.
Dream arm-candy.
Just add opaque tights when temperatures drop.
3. ELEVATE A BLAZER
Style Notes: Trousers not your thing? A corduroy blazer will blend just as seamlessly into your existing wardrobe. Make like Franny and pair yours with white jeans and cowboy boots for a 2024 feel.
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Corduroy always looks so beautiful in tan tones.
White jeans aren't just for summer.
We're predicting this will be one of 2024's biggest boot trends.
4. KEEP IT TONAL
Style Notes: Although colour will liven up the look, classic shades of brown, tan and navy corduroy will always serve you well, just like camel and pale yellow did for Anne-Victoire Lefevre in this look.
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This will go with everything, from printed dresses to, well, corduroy trousers.
An elevated handbag option.
Such a flattering wide-leg cut.
5. TRY CORDUROY TOP TO TOE
Style Notes: Speaking of colour—wow! Julie Sergent Ferreri’s Longchamp corduroy suit is the stuff of fashion dreams. Although Sergent Ferreri is wearing a matchy-matchy bright set, you could also try clashing colours for a 2024 twist or choose a neutral set if you'd rather.
Shop the look:
A gorgeous, versatile blazer.
A white tee is the ideal pairing for a bright corduroy blazer.
The perfect colour and fit.
6. GIVE YOUR JEANS A BREAK
Style Notes: The beauty of corduroy trousers lies in their versatility, especially if you choose a shade of navy or black. Simply wear them with everything you’d ordinarily style with jeans—in Léna Farl’s case, a white blouse and cute cardigan—and you’ll wonder how you ever got dressed without them.
Shop the look:
You'll wear this versatile knit all autumn long.
A wardrobe staple all year round.
These flattering flares come in eight shades.
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This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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