Call it the back-to-school effect or the change of seasons, but September comes with the desire to refresh and streamline our clothing—pulling long-forgotten pieces from storage and thinking up ingenious methods to squeeze the most out of our summer wardrobes, particularly within office settings. Although French women's style isn’t directly associated with workwear, the "je ne sais quoi” we’re all keen to embody encompasses an aesthetic that’s easily transferable to the workplace—making French women's style an apt reference for workwear. It’s no secret that workwear of the past has felt a little lacklustre (and akin to the prickly trousers we had no choice but to wear in school *shudders*) but now there are a plethora of examples of how to elevate office looks, many of which you can find most in a typical French capsule.
Between the tailoring, 90s-inspired elements and refined silhouettes, you’re bound to discover inspired workwear outfits when observing French women. Whilst living here, I’ve noticed that during their morning commutes, French women are clad in pieces that you’ll likely see them wear for off-duty days but of course, dress codes differ depending on an individual's line of work and journeys there. Women situated in Paris frequently cycle to work and boast relaxed apparel to match.
You’ll witness many a power suit with a modern lilt (read; slouched blazers, as opposed to form-fitting single-breasted styles) wide-leg tailored trousers and puddle pants, trainers, free-flowing dresses and on occasion, straight-fit jeans and long-sleeved Breton tops. The magic is also in the juxtaposition of textures, lengths and styles.
I strongly believe French women have struck the ultimate balance between formal and relaxed apparel for work. They are the masters of nonchalant dressing, after all. From tailored skirting paired with detailed blouses to Bermuda short suits, I’ve pulled some inspirational workwear outfits from some of our favourite French Sartorialists. Keep scrolling for workwear outfits you’ll feel comfortable and stylish enough in, which will no doubt enable you to put your best foot forward!
1. Belted Blazer + White Maxi Dress
Style Notes: Gallic woman are renowned for their staple styles but they've inherited some subtle trends over the last few years. Que the full-skirted dress. Pair it with a streamlined blazer and swap the sandals for slip-on shoes. There's still time to wear this style of shoe!
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I'm so enamoured by the shaping of this blazer. The stock keeps fluctuating but keep your eyes peeled for change in availability.
The chicest belt on the high street this autumn.
One of my best fashion tips is to stretch the wear out of your summer wardrobe with tailored or knitted pieces atop.
Quiet luxury has been a real marker of fashion this year. My favourite brands are unassuming and produce quality and timeless designs.
Sleek, sharp and sophisticated.
2. Victoriana Blouse + Tailored Skirt + Pointed Mules
Style Notes: Autumn is time to amp up the gothic vibe and who's to say you have to save these looks for non-working days? Instead, incorporate elements of Victoriana into your workwear capsule with this season's tailored skirt, pointed mules and a detailed blouse. The more pronounced the collar, the better.
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Don your favourite detailed blouses throughout autumn, give or take a few styling tweaks and layers.
Column skirts are easily one of the most worn items in my wardrobe.
Don't forget to look on the high street for classic and quality finds you can wear time and time again.
It may be subtle but the knotted detail transforms this piece from a simple into a fashion-forward accessory.
3. Blue Poplin Shirt + Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: You can't go wrong with the shirt and tailored trousers formula. It may be pared-back but it wins every time. As per most French women's wardrobes, it's also timeless.
Swap your white shirts for a touch of blue. It's a welcomed addition to a workwear capsule.
You can't get much better than COS' tailored trousers. Trust me, I've seen them up close and personal.
A sleek cross-body bag with a detailed metal adornment.
Thank goodness for the ballet pump revival because there are currently a plethora of iterations available on the market - from squared-toe versions to rhinestone-adorned pumps, you're guaranteed to find something to suit your taste.
4. Boxy Blazer + Jeans + Woven Bag
Style Notes: If you're lucky enough to have a relaxed office dress code why not don a blazer, shirt and jeans combination? It bears both relaxed and tailored elements. This look also comprises the basket bag, which you can cleverly integrate into autumnal looks. Many of the Dragon Diffusion styles feature an under-arm nook, which is roomy for laptops and such.
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It's crisp, classic and crafted from 100% organic cotton.
The Frankie Shop's blazers have earned cult status for good reason. This greyish hue is unique as is the overstated '80s-inspired shoulder. I like to think it's a nod to David Bryne's infamous blazer suit.
I very seldom wear jeans but I love the cut and shade of this pair and not forgetting the '70s influence.
Extend the wear of your basket bag through to autumn with Dragon Diffusion's spacious styles.
Each year I eagerly await Dear Frances' latest designs but the core collections are so timeless. This buttery suede paired with the brown hue is directional yet classic.
5. Bermuda Shorts + Cropped Blazer
Style Notes: A Bermuda-shorts-and-blazer combination is an alternative workwear look that French women appreciate. Size up for a slouchier fit and pair the suit with tights and a coat when the weather gets chillier.
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Cropped styles have arrived to inspire workwear looks.
The lace trim is undeniably French.
French-based Stylist Sylvie Mus often pairs pin-bearing styles with tights in the winter and it looks so chic.
Not only is this a sleek style, it's also big enough to house all office essentials (and more).
Take it from Carrie Bradshaw, Manolo Blahnik crafts the ultimate power shoe.
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