I recently took a lovely holiday to Paris. When I got back, my friends and family asked me about my favourite part of the trip. I naturally rattled off all of the delicious food I ate and the museums I visited. But I also noted my adoration for simply sitting at a cafe and watching the street style. As a lover of French style (that effortless je ne sais quoi is just so covetable), I adored seeing how Parisians dress in their day-to-day.
While the types of looks I saw ran the gamut, many of the ensembles featured effortless basics that Parisians are known for wearing to look chic. There were actually five specific styles I spotted the most on the streets of Paris. Below you’ll uncover the list, along with visual inspiration. I also shopped out each of the basics in question if you’re interested in adding a fresh style to your wardrobe.
The Best Basics That French People Rely On
1. Double-Breasted Blazers
Style Notes: The temperature was up and down for most of my time in Paris, so layering pieces were key. I saw double-breasted blazers everywhere—especially with simple tops and jeans. A blazer brings instant polish to any look, and it's the ideal evening outerwear.
Shop the Look:
So versatile.
Arket knows all about epic blazers.
For an authentic touch, look for herringbone.
I absolutely love the simplicity.
So sleek.
2. Simple Skirts
Style Notes: Skirts were incredibly popular teamed with sneakers, flats and boots. The style sort of ranged—either simple knit styles or in satin.
Shop the Look:
A linen skirt is a great buy for summer.
A tailored skirt will always serve you well.
The lace hem gives this skirt a vintage feel that Parisians would definitely approve of.
This khaki feels like a neutral.
So chic.
3. Relaxed Button-Up Shirts
Style Notes: The button-up shirt (particularly in relaxed cuts) reigned supreme in every neighborhood I visited. I noticed a plethora of classic white styles and also blue-striped silhouettes.
Shop the Look:
The texture of this makes it look so elevated.
This COS number is a real stand out.
This brand is dedicated to great shirts.
A forever style.
Simple, yet so effective.
4. Denim Jackets
Style Notes: Given the slightly cooler temperatures when I visited Paris (especially in the morning and at night), denim jackets seemed to be a go-to choice (in addition to blazers).
Shop the Look:
The cropped design adds a directional feel.
I love this dark indigo wash.
Big fan of the vintage feel.
A fresh approach for the autumn.
I love the slouched fit.
5. Baggy Jeans/Trousers
Style Notes: I saw baggy trousers and denim everywhere—styled most often with flats or sneakers and I'm fully on board.
Shop the Look:
An easy, everyday jean.
These could be styled for any occasion.
This wash will go with so many colours.
It's all about the silhouette of this pair.
Just add a white shirt and mules.
6. Black Dress
Style Notes: layered up or down, a little black dress is one of the most hard working pieces you can own.
A full skirt for added drama.
One of Reformation's most coveted styles.
The square neckline is inspired.
Spot the ruched elements.
This style will never date.
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