What is it about the way French women dress that is so . . . je ne sais quoi? They always look put together and chic, but effortlessly so. But this look isn't unattainable. With the right pieces, you can exude French-girl style. To start with, you'll need some stripes. Yes, the same nautical striped pieces you probably already have in your wardrobe.
From there, it's all about accessorizing — think: the perfect cashmere cardigan, a great trench, and dainty loafers to complement your look. Ahead, you'll find five outfits that'll have you looking and feeling your French-girl best, starting with stripes. Bonne chance!
For City Chic
This gorgeous, supple sailor sweater [1] ($90) is the perfect nautical-meets-French-girl piece. There are so many ways to style it, but we love half-tucking it into a pair of white chinos [2] ($90) and accented with a brown leather belt [3] ($90). If it's chilly out, pop on a beige trench [4] ($270) and finish off the look with a pair of white woven loafers [5] ($200). Voila: an outfit that would look right at home on the streets of Paris.
For Brunch on the Terrasse
Nautical stripes meet feminine flair with this sweet little blouse [6] ($290). We love the extra-long point collar, butterfly sleeves, and ruffle trim — accents that exude French-girl style. With so much happening up top, we recommend keeping things simple down below, like jeans with a relaxed fit [7] ($94, originally $188). Add a pair of delicate flats [8] ($525) and a subtle (but impactful) piece of Saint Laurent jewelry [9] ($295), and you're ready for your Champagne brunch.
For the Workday
Never underestimate the power of a simple T-shirt. This striped number [10] ($30) delivers on French-girl style all on its own. But with a few added accessories, it's on a whole new French level. We love pairing it with an oversize blazer [11] ($199) and high-waisted pants [12] ($120) — the relaxed fit on both nicely offset that more fitted tee. Layer on a chunky gold necklace [13] ($129), and you have an outfit that'll turn heads when you walk through the office.
For the Highest (French) Fashionista
The splurge is real with this unbelievably chic blue-and-white-striped crop top [14] ($720) and skirt [15] ($1,100). While you can absolutely wear them as separates, dressed down with relaxed denim or a casual tee, we love them together for a stunning, eye-catching French fashionista look. As for accessorizing, keep things simple. A pair of white sandals [16] ($595) will do, and a sumptuously soft cardigan [17] ($345) if the day gets chilly.