5 style rules French girls follow
From Jane Birkin to Marion Cotillard to Jeanne Damas, there is something about French women we all can’t help but envy: their effortless elegance. The French style is timeless: on the one hand, it embodies a carefree, easygoing attitude, and on the other hand, French women always seem to be well dressed, no matter the occasion.
In an effort to inject some Parisian-girl style into our own wardrobes, these are five style rules French girls follow.
1. Simplicity first
French fashion icon Coco Chanel said it herself: “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.” For French girls, the term moins est plus, or less is more, reigns supreme. Don’t crowd an outfit with too many accessories. Instead, invest in a few key items that can take centre stage.
Crystal Haze
Cotton Candy Ring
$268.00
Anthropologie
Anthropologie
Marquise-Cut Crystal Ring
$38.00
Anthropologie
Awe Inspired
Gemstone Signet Ring White
$195.00
Anthropologie
Breda
Nocturne Ring Red
$150.00
Anthropologie
2. Mix new trends with old staples
Take a style cue from the French model and creative Leia Sfez. The It-girl paired her trendy two-toned Chanel boots with a classic pair of blue jeans and an oversized beige blazer for an effortlessly cool look that will remain stylish for years to come.
Frankie Shop
Isla single-button blazer
$310.00
Mytheresa
Closed
Lola belted blazer - Neutrals
$496.00
Farfetch
Frankie Shop
Olympia faux leather blazer
$354.00
Mytheresa
Victoria Beckham
Victoria Beckham Woman Cotton-blend Tweed Blazer Beige Size 14
$1,745.00
The Outnet
3. The little black dress
There’s a reason why fashion girls have been obsessed with the little black dress since the dawn of time. For a piece that can have a double-life in the daytime hours, follow in the sartorial lead of Emmanuelle Koffi with her tweed mini dress.
Self Portrait
Sequin Bouclé with Lace Collar Dress - Black
$565.15
Italist
Proenza Schouler
Kaida Bouclé Mini Dress Black
$495.00
Bergdorf Goodman
Rotate
Sequin-Embellished Bouclé Dress - Black
$324.42
Italist
4. Invest in a trench
Whether in shades of beige or black, French girls know the importance of a classic trench coat. One look at the feed of Aïda Badji Sané, and you can find a million ways to style the always-in-fashion staple.
Cole Haan
Womens Insulated Twill Trench Coat - Black Size Medium
$328.00
Cole Haan
Alo
| Oversized Faux Fur Trench Jacket in Black, Size: Small
$398.00
Alo Yoga
Ganni
Belted Double-Breasted Nylon Coat - Black
$668.12
Italist
5. Focus on prints, not logos
While fashion girls like Chiara Ferragni and Caro Daur are often spotted in bold logo prints, the French focus on classic prints, like stripes and spots, as seen on Paris-based influencer Adenorah.
Soft Goat
Striped Cashmere-Silk Blend Sweater - Cream White
$244.22
Italist
Max Mara
Mxptabella Sweater - White
$434.94
Italist
