Dating back to the 17th century, Paris has been the epicenter of the fashion industry, bearing the names of notable fashion houses that have, and will continue to guide society's sartorial choices for the Fall 2024 trend season and for those to come. That said, it's not surprising that French women have mastered a dress code of their very own: embracing clothes not just for their looks but for how they make one feel. Classic at its core, the French-girl style ethos is a delicate balance between appearing put together but not all too perfect. You know, that je n'ais ce quoi. While a French girl's closet may be one of the best sources of inspiration for your fall mood board, take a cue from Emily In Paris, who knows all too well that fashion is nothing without a healthy dose of personal style. And while the nuances of French style may be hard to master all at once, these pieces will help you achieve the effortlessly cool wardrobe everyone is vying for.
The Outerwear
Trade your traditional fall coat for a cape that instantly elevates your outfit. Layer it over a dress or jeans, and consider belting it to add some shape. The key to wearing it the French way is to opt for a slightly oversized, borrowed-from-the-boys fit.
Capes date back to the European aristocracy, but over time, they have evolved into a symbol of Parisian chic. They seamlessly blend function and fashion, epitomizing the effortless style France is known for.
The Silk Scarf
Parisians love their scarves, especially the foulard—a lightweight silk version that you should tie loosely around the neck.
With their ability to effortlessly elevate any outfit, iconic French fashion houses like Hermès popularized the silk scarf, symbolizing timeless sophistication and effortlessness.
The Blazer
Your wardrobe workhorse—a tailored blazer—is a French uniform staple that's as versatile as they come. Try it with a slightly rumpled button-down and your favorite jeans from the fall 2024 denim trends.
Embodying both structure and effortless style, blazers are versatile pieces that can toe the line between casual and sophisticated.
The Ballet Flat
Practical but undeniably chic, the ballet flat is at the foundation of every French woman's shoe arsenal. While the color options are endless, opting for a neutral hue ensures they're ladylike and not girlish.
Popularized by Parisian icons like Brigitte Bardot, and with their blend of comfort, simplicity, and understated style, it's no wonder French women have adopted the shoe as their own.
The Breton Stripe Top
The quintessentially French Breton stripe top has a roomy 3/4 sleeve and scoop neckline that shows a bit of skin and allows the top to fall just right.
After being adopted by the French Navy in the 19th century for the distinctive stripes on the Breton tops, Coco Chanel introduced the Breton stripe into her 1917 collection, transforming it into a symbol of French culture.
The Basket Bag
The ultimate French-style muse, Jane Birkin, put the straw basket on the map in the 1960s. While a basket may not be practical for everyday use, this modern tote take is a great alternative for a similarly effortless accessory.
Natural materials and a relaxed aesthetic perfectly complement the French love for understated fashion.
