Do It Like the French: How to Perfect Parisian Style

Do It Like the French: How to Perfect Parisian Style

French women have mastered the art of uncomplicated dressing. That is, dressing effortlessly chic in classic pieces and seasonless prints. Their “fashion guidelines” are pretty straightforward, to say the least; neutral palettes that consist of rust, tan, white, and black, elevated styles, tailored pieces, and even vintage items. You’ll find it difficult to spot French women don bright clothing, but even if you do, it’s almost always perfectly balanced by neutral or relaxed pieces.

Parisian style is heavily grounded on basics, but it doesn’t shy away from bold silhouettes, statement jewelry, or a fun mix of colors every once in a while. Just take a look at some of the most popular French fashion icons. Whether you’re inspired by Jane Birkin’s affinity for basket bags or Jeanne Damas’ love for sleek and modern pieces, they’re both huge influences in French street style.

Below, emulate and channel your inner Parisian with pieces that define the City of Love.

 

Printed Midi Dresses

Shop the Anna Midi Colorblock Dress – Plus, $100.95

Mid-length dresses are the epitome of French summer dressing, more so if it’s adorned with beautiful prints. Think stripes, polka dots, or simple florals. This silhouette is flattering for all body types, which is why it’s a must-have in any woman’s wardrobe. Style it with sparkling gold jewelry, chic flats or espadrilles, and a simple bag.

You might like these:

Shop the Marilyn Portrait Neck Sheath, $100.95
Shop the Thalia Midi Dress – Plus, $131.95
Shop the Kristina Midi Sheath, $87.95
Shop the Kourtney Midi Dress, $107.95

 

Straight-Leg Pants

Shop the Slim Scuba Pant – Petite, $39.95

Of all the styles available, straight-cut pants are perhaps the most flattering. They do a good job in giving the appearance of longer, slimmer legs, plus they go with any top. Opt for denim if you want something more casual, or go for linen if you want an elevated look.

You might like these:

Shop the Wide Waistband Straight Leg Pant – Petite, $43.95
Shop the Black Vent Straight Leg Pants, $169.95
Shop the Garment Washed Twill Rolled Hem Tie Waist Pants, $14.99
Shop the Red High Waisted Piped Pants, $196.95

 

Cat Eye Sunglasses

Shop the Cat Eye Isabelle Sunglasses, $80.95

Thanks to the Old Hollywood aesthetic, this silhouette evokes the perfect vintage look. The elongated, upward frames flatter most face shapes and instantly spice up any casual outfit. Wear your sunnies with a classic statement top, jeans, flats, and a beret.

You might like these:

Shop the Joella Sunglasses, $64.95
Shop the Oversized Cat Eye Honey Sunglasses, $80.95
Shop the Oversized Fit Hebe Cat-Eye Frame Sunglasses, $80.95
Shop the Azul Sunglasses, $80.95

 

One-Piece Swimsuits

Shop the Vintage Floral Cross Over Sarong One Piece, $66.00

The French version of this classic silhouette is modest but can include stylishly placed cutouts, necklines, and even embellishments. Look for something with cute prints like stripes and florals, as well as bright colors.

You might like these:

Shop the Anne Cole Twist Front Shirred One Piece, $59.99
Shop the Anne Cole Square Neck Tankini, $44.99
Shop the Hillside Bow Front Swimdress – Plus, $86.00
Shop the Anne Cole Shirred Front Halter One Piece, $64.99

 

Basket Bags

Shop the Jute Straw Evil Eye Hamsa Hand Tassel Tote, $48.00

Regardless of the season, woven bags are a tried-and-true staple for French women. They have a timeless appeal and are versatile, functional, and easy to style. Since most of them are designed as beach bags, they’re roomy and can hold a lot of items without losing their structure. It’s the best accessory to go with your summer midi dress.

You might like these:

Shop the Straw Jute Beach Tote With Striped Canvas Handle, $48.00
Shop the Lurex Straw Beach Tote w/ Double Handle, $64.95
Shop the Straw Shopping Bag, $55.95

 

Frilly Blouses

Shop the White Cold-Shoulder Blouse, $90.95

Fluttery tops in classic hues like red, navy, white, and cream are all French girl-approved. Modern silhouettes like puff sleeves and cropped lengths elevate your look. Simply pair with straight-leg jeans, flats, and dainty jewelry to create a casual yet chic ensemble.

You might like these:

Shop the Ditsy Pattern Frill Neck Blouse, $58.95
Shop the Ruffle Sleeves Surplice Blouse, $56.95
Shop the H Halston Flounce Sleeveless Blouse, $78.00
Shop the Pink Frill Sleeve Top, $93.95

 

Invest in the right pieces

French style should be simple, straightforward, yet sophisticated. The key to nailing a Parisian-inspired closet is knowing which pieces to buy. Whether you’re dressing for spring, summer, fall, or winter, these wardrobe essentials will have you looking très chic all year round.

 

Discover more new arrivals here.

Check Out Our Other Blog’s For The Latest Content

Sep 27, 2022

Creating An Autumnal Vibe In Your Home

Read More

Sep 27, 2022

Work Appropriate Denim Outfits

Read More

Sep 11, 2022

Curate Your Wardrobe With Fall’s New Colors

Read More

Sep 11, 2022

Transitioning To A Fall Wardrobe

Read More

Sep 06, 2022

PAY OFF YOUR MORTGAGE™ 2022 SWEEPSTAKES

Read More

Aug 29, 2022

Accessories To Elevate Your Casual Outfits

Read More

Aug 18, 2022

Wardrobe Staples For Every Budget

Read More

Aug 15, 2022

Transform Your Home With These Steinmart Exclusives

Read More

Aug 03, 2022

Holiday Shopping Begins Now

Read More

Jul 29, 2022

The Hostess With The Mostest

Read More

Jul 25, 2022

What To Pack For Your Summer Vacation

Read More

Jul 25, 2022

Closet Must-Have: Prints, Patterns and Popovers

Read More

Jul 25, 2022

5 Outfit Styles To Wear To The World's Most Epic Music Festivals

Read More

Jul 11, 2022

Finding the Right Summer Party Outfit

Read More

Jul 01, 2022

The All-American Style

Read More

Jun 22, 2022

Dress Up in Hot Summer Hues

Read More

Jun 21, 2022

10 Oversized Bags for All Your Summer Essentials

Read More

Jun 13, 2022

Guide to Shopping The Summer Trends

Read More

May 27, 2022

An A-List Style Guide For That Long-Planned Reunion

Read More

May 17, 2022

Memorial Day Sale Bargains!

Read More

May 13, 2022

Refreshed Return-to-Office Looks

Read More

May 05, 2022

Spring Trends To Carry On To Summer

Read More

May 03, 2022

The Perfect Mother’s Day Gift For Every Type Of Mom

Read More

May 03, 2022

What To Wear For Every Spring Wedding

Read More

Apr 22, 2022

The Best Denim Styles For Each Body Shape

Read More

Dec 29, 2021

Recap: The Biggest Trends We Adored in 2021

Read More

Dec 22, 2021

Holiday Rush: Outfits That Will Take You From Day To Night

Read More

Dec 15, 2021

‘Tis the Season to Sparkle

Read More

Dec 08, 2021

Here Are the Gifts the Stein Mart Team Are Shopping for This Christmas

Read More

Dec 02, 2021

Adding Holiday Touches To Your Home

Read More

Nov 25, 2021

The Return of Denim Trends

Read More

Nov 18, 2021

Taking Knitwear to the Streets

Read More

Nov 12, 2021

2021 Holiday Gift Ideas for Every Budget

Read More

Nov 03, 2021

Fall Florals: This Season’s Must-Have Print

Read More

Oct 28, 2021

10 Statement Pieces To Wear For Thanksgiving

Read More

Oct 21, 2021

5 Most Popular Colors For Fall and How to Wear Them

Read More

Oct 14, 2021

2021 Holiday Gift Guide

Read More

Oct 07, 2021

Decorating Your Home For Halloween

Read More

Sep 30, 2021

What To Wear To Every Fall Event

Read More

Sep 23, 2021

Fall/Winter's 6 Best Trends And How To Wear Them In Real Life

Read More

Sep 16, 2021

Step Up Your Skincare Game This Fall

Read More

Sep 09, 2021

Accessorizing for the Last Days of Summer (and What We’re Keeping for Fall)

Read More

Sep 06, 2021

Your Fall 2021 Capsule Wardrobe Is Here

Read More

Aug 30, 2021

10 Hardworking Pieces You Should Have In Your Closet

Read More

Aug 23, 2021

Vintage Designer Pieces & Their Role in Circular Fashion

Read More

Aug 14, 2021

Office Apropos: 8 Outfits to Wear from Work to Weekend

Read More

Aug 09, 2021

The Denim Edit: 6 Outfits You’ll Want to Wear Forever

Read More

Aug 06, 2021

Fall '21 Trends You Can Wear Now

Read More

Jul 17, 2021

10 Elevated Basics We’re Wearing Right Now

Read More