Channel French-Girl Style With These Nautical Outfits

By Ariel Kanter
Banana Republic
Banana Republic
Every editorial product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn commission.

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
bananarepublic.gap.com

For City Chic

This gorgeous, supple sailor sweater ($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 ($90) and accented with a brown leather belt ($90). If it's chilly out, pop on a beige trench ($270) and finish off the look with a pair of white woven loafers ($200). Voila: an outfit that would look right at home on the streets of Paris.

For Brunch on the Terrasse
shopbop.com

For Brunch on the Terrasse

Nautical stripes meet feminine flair with this sweet little blouse ($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 ($94, originally $188). Add a pair of delicate flats ($525) and a subtle (but impactful) piece of Saint Laurent jewelry ($295), and you're ready for your Champagne brunch.

For the Workday
bananarepublic.gap.com

For the Workday

Never underestimate the power of a simple T-shirt. This striped number ($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 ($199) and high-waisted pants ($120) — the relaxed fit on both nicely offset that more fitted tee. Layer on a chunky gold necklace ($129), and you have an outfit that'll turn heads when you walk through the office.

For the Highest (French) Fashionista
modaoperandi.com

For the Highest (French) Fashionista

The splurge is real with this unbelievably chic blue-and-white-striped crop top ($720) and skirt ($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 ($595) will do, and a sumptuously soft cardigan ($345) if the day gets chilly.