So, you want to get that ever-so-chic French girl style but you have no idea where to start. You’re in the right place! No matter the current trend or the latest must-have investment piece, French women have mastered their classic personal style. And if you’re reading this post, then you want to master it too! A great place to start is with these 7 easy French outfit formulas. They are all easy to copy using core basic pieces you’d find in a French capsule wardrobe that you can wear again and again. Mastering a chic look (and looking like French It girl Jeanne Damas or icon Jane Birkin) is just an outfit formula away!
1. jeans + tee + blazer
If you’re looking to channel that effortlessly chic French style, you can’t go wrong with this classic combo! Using one versatile piece after another from your French minimalist capsule wardrobe, this look is easy to wear and put together.
French style is usually never complicated and this outfit proves just that. However, at the same time, a French woman never looks “blah boring” either!
This outfit formula is the epitome of laid-back sophistication, making it perfect for just about any occasion. Jeans give you that casual, relaxed vibe, while a simple tee keeps things comfortable and unpretentious. But the magic happens when you throw on a blazer. Instantly, your look goes from laid-back to polished without even trying.
This outfit is versatile enough that any shoes could go with it! Choose ankle boots for casual elegance, heels for sophistication and glam, sneakers for a casual look, loafers for classic style, and flats for simple sophistication.
This trio of jeans, a tee, and a blazer is the perfect foundation for you to style and accessorize! Think of a stylish scarf, a classy belt, or a chic handbag to make it your own. Whether you’re heading to brunch with friends or a casual work meeting, this outfit has got you covered. It’s simple, stylish, and quintessentially French!
2. white blouse + trousers or jeans
French women love to build their outfits around a white top. Whether it’s a feminine blouse or the classic white button-down, this piece is perfect for nailing that effortlessly chic French look.
The white blouse brings an air of timeless style and sophistication, perfect for any occasion, while trousers or jeans keep the look grounded and versatile. Depending on the look you’re going for, this outfit combo is all kinds of versatile. Pairing the crispness of the blouse with the casual feel of jeans is perfect for a casual chic look, allowing you to go from a coffee date to a night out with just a change of accessories.
A white top with the tailored fit of trousers is sophisticated and elevated. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable; whether you prefer a pair of chic ballet flats or sleek ankle boots, this outfit can be dressed up or down in a snap. Voilà! You’ve got yourself a go-to outfit that’s both classic and effortlessly French.
white button down | black pants | heels | purse
3. cropped jeans + front tie top + espadrilles + oval sunglasses + straw bag
Tuck this look away for the summer because this is going to be your stylish go-to! Let’s break it down. Cropped straight-leg jeans (a French girl’s favorite) offer that perfect mix of relaxed yet tailored, showcasing a bit of ankle for that breezy vibe. Pair them with a front-tie top, and you’ve got an outfit that’s feminine and flirty, perfect for a stroll along the Seine or brunch at a sidewalk cafe.
Espadrilles are a French staple (if you get anything for summer to look like a French girl, it should be the espadrilles), combining comfort with a laidback touch that feels oh-so-summery.
Oval sunglasses add a hint of retro flair, capturing that vintage Parisian essence. Finally, the straw bag is both functional and fashionable, adding texture and a nod to the French countryside. This combo is a classic for a reason!
espadrilles | top | jeans | straw bag | sunglasses
4. turtleneck + pants + gold necklace
This French outfit formula is perfect for achieving classic French style in the fall and winter, and here’s why. First, the turtleneck is a staple in any French wardrobe. It’s effortlessly chic and adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. It’s versatile too, working for both casual days and more polished events. All in all, turtlenecks are not outdated; they’re a timeless piece!
Pair it with pants, and you’ve got the perfect balance of comfort and style. Whether you choose tailored trousers for a sleek look or opt for some relaxed-fit jeans for a laid-back vibe, you can’t go wrong. Extra style points for choosing pants that have interesting buttons and pocket details!
Cropped ankle pants make a great pairing with turtlenecks as well, as do, you guessed it, jeans! French girls love their denim after all. To continue the sophisticated feel of this outfit, pair this look with simple accessories like a gold pendant necklace, gold hoops, a watch, or a simple bag.
A simple gold necklace is the go-to accessory as it adds a touch of glam without being over the top. It’s that simple touch that elevates the entire outfit, giving you that timeless, effortlessly chic vibe that French style is all about. This outfit formula is easy to put together, yet it always looks put-together!
Wear your new favorite combo for the fall and winter. And when it comes to footwear you can, of course, always count on the go-tos, such as loafers, ballet flats, or ankle boots.
turtleneck | jeans | ankle boots | necklace
Related: The Best French Capsule Wardrobe for a Classic Fall and Winter (With 40 Outfit Ideas)
5. jeans + striped top + blazer + silk scarf
How could we talk about French style and not mention stripes? It’s classic for a reason! Starting with a pair of well-fitted jeans, you’re already setting the foundation for a laid-back yet sophisticated look. Add a striped shirt or Breton top, and you’ve instantly got that Parisian vibe. Top it off with a tailored blazer, and you’re adding a layer of polish that ties everything together seamlessly.
The pièce de résistance? A silk scarf. This little accessory packs a big punch, adding a pop of color and a touch of elegance. It’s the ultimate nod to French fashion, proving that simple pieces can come together to create something truly timeless and chic!
However, if you think the combination of stripes and a scarf is a little cliche, then you can experiment and make this look your own by changing up how you tie the scarf. Instead of tying it around your neck, for example, try tying it around your handbag or wrist instead.
For shoes, you could wear anything from ankle boots to ballet flats to heels. And when it comes to jeans, don’t stress about what jeans you need to accomplish this outfit formula – wide-leg, skinny, straight, slim, cropped, and flared are all fantastic options!
Simple gold accessories and a handbag (in addition to the scarf) are the perfect ways to finish off this look.
blazer | tee | jeans | flats | scarf
6. silk top + blazer + leather pencil skirt (or pants)
Need an outfit idea for a night out? That’s where this French outfit formula comes in handy. First off, a silk top brings a touch of elegance and luxury that the French are known for. It’s versatile, comfortable, and drapes beautifully.
Pair it with a blazer, and you instantly add structure and sophistication to your look. A blazer is a timeless piece that can elevate any outfit, giving you that polished, Parisian flair.
Now, for the bottoms. You can choose a pencil skirt or pants – they both balance the softness of the silk and the formality of the blazer. Plus, they hug your curves just right, offering a flattering silhouette! Together, these pieces create a stylish yet effortless ensemble that embodies classic French fashion.
When crafting a French outfit for a night out, keep this formula in mind: Something dark, something loose, and something structured. In this outfit, your “something loose” is the silk top. Your “something dark” could be your bottoms or outerwear, and your “something structured” is your blazer or tailored coat. Whether you’re attempting to look French or not, the elements in that outfit make for a great outfit when you need to be more dressed up!
blazer | silk top | skirt | heels
7. jeans + lightweight sweater + trench coat + ankle boots
We can’t finish this post of French outfit formulas without talking about a trench coat! Though it’s not a clothing item you’re surprised by, it’s one of those timeless pieces that everyone should have; it’s the perfect stylish and practical choice for a reason!
Though Parisian women do wear a trench coat with stripes (it’s not just a cliche), another French way to wear this piece is to pair it with a cashmere sweater. Whether you’re going for a Parisian look or not, no wardrobe is complete without a cashmere sweater, especially in neutral colors like gray, white, black, beige, or navy. Plus, it’s lightweight in nature, perfect for that cozy yet sophisticated vibe while still being versatile enough to handle unpredictable weather and keep you comfortable.
Your pair of well-fitted jeans blend effortless style with practicality, making it perfect for everyday chic. Lastly, slip into some ankle boots for that final touch of style and comfort. This combo is classic and always in style, making it a go-to choice for anyone looking to channel their inner French girl!
trench coat | sweater | jeans | ankle boots
Mastering French Outfit Formulas
You don’t need to carry around a baguette with a beret perched on top of your head, smoking a cigarette from red lips to look like a French woman. In fact, wearing or doing all of those things at once is cliche French fashion, not real French fashion. (Though, to be fair, a red lip won’t hurt!)
The French have mastered less is more when it comes to Parisian style, and because of their confidence and the way they carry themselves, a simple outfit is never boring. Whether you want to keep rocking your skinny jeans or dress in a more edgy spring look, you can take these key pieces and French outfit formulas for French-girl style year-round!
If you liked this post then you’ll love learning about the 9 Things French Women Don’t Wear (And What They Wear Instead)!
I’m loving the looks with blazers!
Yay!!! I just turned 70…. Am fit and now I can pull things out of my closet and take my “look “ up a notch!!! How fun! Thanks 😊
Happy 70th! 🎉 It’s so inspiring to hear that you’re feeling fit and fabulous! Age truly is just a number, and style knows no bounds.
Dive into those French outfit formulas and rock that sophisticated look. Remember, it’s never too late to elevate your fashion game. Enjoy experimenting with your wardrobe and wear your style with confidence. Thank you for sharing your enthusiasm with us!
I love the look but I don’t look good in pants or jeans. I am 5’2 ,curvy and would love to know how to get the French style
Hi, being short is all about dressing in proportion. You can wear a petite pant that fits well without being tight… with a tailored shirt and petite jacket . Of course, if you can wear any heel –kitten if you don’t want a tall heel– it always looks good to give a taller look (and slimmer if needed)
Can I have all of these looks please? They’re so well put together and I’m obsessed!
xo, Lydia
I just love the Parisian style!
Simple n great look.
Thank you, Miriam!
I love all of the outfits I already have some of the pieces . I’ll definitely going to refresh my clothes look without spending a fortune.
Thank you
Most styles look great on slim people as do these looks. Most Americans are over weight / obese. They wouldn’t look so ‘French’ with their huge derrières.
Absolutely divine!! I’m inspired to add these French styleditems to my wardrobe soon.
That was so kind of you to point that out! Style is for everyone.
I wonder why there is no reply button to Geraldines rude remark about most Amercans being fat. Just like any country, there are heavy weights everywhere. . But go to the coastal cities and people are anything but heavy. The middle of the country women are larger but not everyone. I’m not. I wear these jeans .
I wait to say thank I’m looking forward to show off my new looks
I think women of all sizes can rock this look!🩷💃🕺
Definitely!
Love every outfit!
Inspired and ready to lift my look,
thank you
I love the one with the polka dots and also the stripes! So French and chic!
I’m all about that French style!
I love the idea of outfit formulas
It makes getting dressed way easier!
These are some great formulas! I love your pairings.
Thanks Christina! <3
I am loving this post girl!! Totally giving me major outfit inspo!
Kileen
cute & little
Thanks girly!
I love french style so much! Thanks for sharing these tips!
I’m a huge fan of it too!
I like the styles, but these styles are worn here in America. I wear them all the time. I think what makes these outfits look chic is because they are worn by French women and supposedly French women are chic. American women are also chic It depends on how one carries onesselves. Viva la differeance!
Yes, I agree. American women can be chic too!
These are all such cute staple pieces! Will definitely need to replicate some of these looks 🙂
The French make it look so easy!
Love them all. To have 3 great jeans, lovely tops and all kinds of blazers! Going to Spain in September…..does this translate in Malaga?
I hoped you enjoyed your travel to Spain 🇪🇸 and I’m sure you noticed how chic Spanish women are. When I lived there I was a broke college student with no chic-ness whatsoever 😂 Thanks to people like Carolyn I’ve leved up my style😇
I’m happy to hear you are enjoying your style now 😉
I love all of these simple chic looks!
Simple chic is my favorite thing!
Loving #2 with the big bold polka dots!!
xo, Cara
I’d totally wear that top if I had it!
I think it’s fantastic how many of the different pieces can be mixed and matched and worn together. Parisian fashion is just probably my favorite of all time. It’s so chic!
I totally agree with you!
Love that polka dot blouse! so chic!
Britt+Whit
I’d totally wear it if I had it!
I’m a huge fan of Parisian style– so chic and feminine. All these outfits are perfect, so going to copy a few of them 😛
You’d look great in them! I tend to copy them all 😉
These are all such great combos, and so many of them are so classic! I love the color combos here as well, so easy to mix and match pieces!
Denise | Fashion Love Letters
I love styling classic outfits!
These are absolutely fabulous outfits! thank you so much for sharing! xo
Cathclaire | Fashion Blogger
Thanks for reading!
I’m gonna want to copy every single one of these!
They’ll look great on you!
Perfection Carolyn! Thank you so much this definitely has simplified my own chic obsession with Parisian Style. So glad I found you!
Love,
Kimberly
Thank you so much, Kimberly! You are so sweet. Lots more Parisian posts coming soon! 🙂
I’ve dressed like this since the 80’s. I’m in my 50’s.! This is a very classic and chic way to dress!
It will never go out of style!
Thank you! I am going to copy some of these looks. Classic. I have so many clothes, to many that are not classic and versatile.
Once you can cut out the clothes that are just taking up space and aren’t versatile, I know you’ll find that you have way more outfit options!
This is fantastic! So chic and simple.
Thank you, Valerie!
what about someone who can’t wear pants?
Slip skirts and little black dresses are very chic too!
NICE SIMPLE AND CLASSY..I BASICALLY DRESS LIKE THIS AND GET ALOT OF COMPLIMENTS. I HAVE THIS STYLE FROM MY EUROPEAN MOTHER.. THAN YOU FOR A REFRESH ARTICLE..
So happy you liked it, Nancy!
Hi Carolyn!
Thank you for the great inspirational post! I love the handbag with the black tiger clasp/broach on it featured under “other ideas” abs pictured under the red Nars lipstick.
Where can I find that item?
Thank you!
Susana
Will bookmark this post, it’s a good reference for french ootds. Thanks for sharing!
LOVE these French chic outfit formulas!! Very usable daily.
Love all these ideas for a chic wardrobe. Will these ideas work for a plus sized woman? Also is gold neck scarf available for purchase somewhere.
Here is a similar scarf: https://rstyle.me/+rhhtCcXE0WOtPK6y8Gvo7g
And yes, the majority of these outfit combos will work! I would make a few tweaks for what you feel comfortable in. Perhaps switch out the front tie top for a different floral top, for example.
It is almost all black&white… It needs some colors so you don’t always look so formal and ready for a funeral
I like combinations like this: jeans + lightweight sweater + trench coat + ankle boots
Great basics but not for Texas weather.
Hi Caroline! Thanks for the post! I’m happy I found you! I loved all the styles and actually do have most of the pieces you mentioned. I didn’t realize they were effortless French basics! 😊
Hi, Irene! It sounds like you have a great wardrobe 🙂
I’m loving these looks especially the striped shirt and blazer.
I went to Paris end of May early June 2023 and loved it. It’s so business and casual at the same time.
Thank you for sharing all these beautiful ideas.
Paris has great style inspiration, doesn’t it? Thanks for the feedback!
Carolyn I simply love your blog and adore your personal style❤️ You have inspired me to do my own “Dress Like a French Girl Week”! I’ve already planned my outfit for each day according to the formulas you posted. Can’t wait!
Thrilled to read this! I bet you’ll have the most stylish French girl week. Happy dressing!
I have recently weeded out 90% of my clothes and am putting together a capsule wardrobe of classic, higher quality clothes. During the day I wear jeans or shorts and tees because I Nanny and never leave the house, but when I do I have some nice pieces that all work together. My sister’s MIL was from Germany and for 30 years
I saw her wear a capsule wardrobe of mainly black and white pieces. She rarely shopped for clothes because she had everything she needed. Occasionally she would throw on a red or purple pullover sweater on top of a white blouse and her black trousers. She loved a good silk scarf, too. I am 59 now and decided to simplify my life and to start dressing like a “grown up”. I have embraced the blazer. I have all of the cold weather clothes I need. Now I need to work on warm weather clothes. I live in the Southeast where the summers are brutal, so no long sleeves, no cardigans or coats of any kind. I don’t even wear jeans in the summer because it is too hot. No sleeveless stuff either, because of the upper arms I want to conceal. That season will be the toughest to pick out. Thank you for all of the style inspiration!
😍