Every year, Paris comes alive again in the springtime. Parisians enjoy near-perfect temperatures, blooming flowers in the city gardens and window boxes, more daylight, and the social scene that once again spills onto the streetside cafes and parks. Just like Paris thrives in the springtime, so do French girls and their spring style! Their effortless, fresh looks are the perfect inspiration for simple, yet elegant outfits. Here are 11 tips about how to dress like a French girl this spring.
1. Embrace Stripes
Stripes are synonymous with French fashion. In fact, their popularity in modern looks can be traced back to when they were a part of the French sailor uniform in the mid-19th century. Later on, they would be popularized by the likes of French designers such as Coco Chanel. This pattern has staying power – they’re still a big part of the classic French wardrobe today.
French girls love stripes for their versatility. They’re a great way to incorporate a pattern into your outfit, without overwhelming it. Whether you style a Breton tee or a striped button-down, stripes are easy to spot in French style. They’re also easy to layer – pair them with an oversized blazer, jeans, trousers, or a mini skirt. No matter how you wear them, they’re a great way to usher in spring pieces.
2. Layer Masculine and Feminine Pieces
French women love to create visual interest in their outfits by layering traditionally masculine and feminine pieces together. They know that fashion isn’t restrictive – experimentation is necessary to create stylish looks that are memorable and creative. Mixing and matching pieces that might historically be labeled as “masculine” with more feminine pieces creates balance.
Try incorporating this train of thought into your own process when you’re getting dressed in the morning this spring. If you pick out a feminine piece such as a satin midi skirt, try pairing it with a more masculine piece on top, such as a button-down shirt, a structured blazer, or even a leather jacket. Or, if you choose a top with frills and lace, pair it with high-waisted trousers and heels.
Accessories are a great way to practice this method as well. A men’s watch, a baseball cap, sneakers, etc. can all be used to balance out a look that includes feminine pieces.
3. Don’t Forget Your Trench Coat
French women love trench coats for their practicality and chic, timeless look. They’re the perfect springtime layer for unpredictably chilly or rainy weather. They are also a great neutral, classic piece that can elevate even the most casual outfit.
The great thing about trench coats is that there are so many variations of the style to choose from. In addition to the many different shades out there, you can always find a number of different lengths, too. From a full version to cropped to something in between, there’s sure to be a style that will fit you and your lifestyle. Little details, like a checkered lining, can also be a fun bonus to look for when it comes to this French girl wardrobe staple.
4. Add a Pop of Color with a Neck Scarf
Although French girls are known for loving their neutral looks, they’re not afraid to add a pop of color now and again – especially in the springtime. From a colorful pair of socks to a red lip, they know that a pop of color can be an easy, yet effective way to add personality and a unique twist to their outfit. Enter, the neck scarf – or the foulard, as the French would call it.
A neck scarf is another popular piece that is almost synonymous with classic French fashion. Iconic French designers like Hermès are known for their luxurious, silk versions, but you can find an interesting, colorful scarf nearly anywhere you turn. They don’t have to be expensive to add a fun, yet sophisticated element to your wardrobe.
5. Invest in Basics
French girls know that quality over quantity truly matters. They focus on investing in timeless pieces that are well-constructed and will last for a long time in their wardrobe. They take great care in choosing pieces that have staying power in fashion and don’t fall victim to fleeting trends or pieces that are poorly made. Especially in Paris, French closets can be quite small – so it makes sense that they are narrowed in on pieces that they will wear frequently, and that will serve them well for a long time.
It can be all too tempting to pick up a couple of $5 or $10 white t-shirts and think to yourself that you’ll just buy a new one as soon as the neckline stretches out, or the fabric starts to wear thin. However, you’ll probably end up spending more in the long run by replacing the shirt time and time again. Instead, think about investing a little more money upfront to pay for a piece that will last.
Take a look at the fabric composition when you’re browsing online, or look at the tag in stores. Look for pieces that have a high percentage of wool, cotton, etc. The Emile cardigan from Sézane is a great example – it falls in the range of 70-90% wool. The higher the percentage, the better! These are pieces that have been made with quality materials.
With this strategy, you’ll probably also end up being much more pleased with the fit and how you look – great fashion starts with the basics, after all!
6. Have Fun with Frills and Florals
Frills and florals had a moment on the runways this past fall as spring pieces were debuted by designers. However, these pieces have long been staples in a French girl’s wardrobe. Blouses with lace details, frills, and interesting collars are a great way to add interest to an otherwise traditional, neutral look. Plus, as I mentioned above, they’re a great detail that can balance out other traditionally masculine elements in your outfit.
As for florals, this is another classic pattern that, like stripes, can be extremely versatile and easily paired with your capsule wardrobe pieces. Whether you go all in on spring colors or stick with more neutral blooms, they can be the perfect way to usher in spring weather.
7. Mix and Match Textures
As we’ve already covered, one of the first lessons in how to dress like a French girl this spring is to create balance in your looks. Besides layering masculine and feminine pieces, another way to do this is to mix and match textures. In addition to creating a unique look, this is also a great way to transition your winter pieces to warmer weather.
Try styling a cozy knit cardigan with a satin slip skirt, or a pair of linen pants. The combination adds visual and textural interest, while also keeping you from overheating in the spring sunshine! You could also add other elements with texture through your accessories. Quilted ballet flats, a woven bag, or a French basket tote are all perfect ways to do this and stay true to lighter spring fashion choices.
8. Show Off Your Socks
One of my favorite elements of French fashion that I brought back with me from our last trip to Paris was all of the colorful socks in Parisian street style looks. French women aren’t afraid to show off their socks when it comes to their footwear, and spring is a perfect time to debut these looks.
Try pairing a bright red pair of trouser socks with your jeans and loafers. Or, add a feminine look with frill socks underneath your Mary Janes. Not only does this little trick make your shoes more comfortable, but it also allows you to add a pop of color or a new, interesting element to your outfit. If there’s still a chill in the air, another bonus is that it can help keep your feet warm if you’re walking around outdoors!
9. Elevate Your Look with a Blazer
In addition to the trench coat, a blazer is another staple in French women’s spring fashion. If you want to know how to dress like a French girl this spring, one of the keys is to layer. Layers add visual interest to your look and make your outfit appear more thought-out, and intentional. They give your ensemble an element of depth – and in the creative space, we know that depth is so important to create something that is pleasing to the eye!
A blazer is a versatile piece that can be used to elevate your casual white tee and jeans or pull together an office-appropriate look for a big meeting. There are so many varieties to choose from when it comes to cut, style, and color, but I would recommend starting with something less structured, and slightly oversized. This will pair well with both your casual and professional looks and give you the most bang for your buck in your Parisian-inspired wardrobe.
10. Wear a Bright Lip
By the time spring arrives, the world can feel a little dull and dreary. There might still be snow on the ground, the grass hasn’t turned green again, and everything feels stale and gray. French girls know the perfect remedy – add a bright-colored lip to instantly liven up your look, and your mood.
There have been numerous studies done that show that bright lipstick can actually make you happier. It’s an outlet for your creativity and personal expression, which can feel a little lackluster after a long winter. Plus, it can serve as its own accessory to your outfit. A bright lip, like a coral shade of red, is the perfect way to usher in warmer temperatures. Plus, it’s also a great hack to draw the eye – if you’re currently dealing with any sort of blemish that you want to draw attention away from, a red lip is the perfect remedy (no expensive skin treatment necessary).
If you want to wear it as the French girls do, keep the rest of your makeup simple and minimal on the days that you’re choosing a bright color for your lip shade. Think a little mascara, a touch of blush, and maybe a little concealer. That’s all you need for an easy, no-fuss French girl makeup look. Or, if you prefer a more subtle look, try a lip tint instead.
11. Accessorize with Sensible, Yet Chic Footwear
Although French girls love a good heel as much as the rest of us, they also prioritize sensible, yet chic footwear. In Paris and larger cities, commuting by foot is very common. So, it makes sense that French women are looking for shoes that are stylish, yet comfortable to walk in for long periods.
Enter classic styles like the ballet flats and loafers. These shoes are effortlessly chic and can pair well with almost any look. Dress them down with a striped tee and jeans, or dress them up with a floral midi dress and a trench coat. (Plus, you can show off your socks in these styles!).
Do Like the French Girls Do
Spring is the perfect time of year to take a good look at your wardrobe and do a little refresh when it comes to your personal style. And, if you need a little inspiration, these 11 tips will help you tremendously when it comes to how to dress like a French girl this spring.
Dressing like a French girl doesn’t have to break the bank! Small, inexpensive changes can elevate your look in no time. Up Next: How to Dress Like a French Woman on a Budget
Effortlessly chic! These spring styles are perfect for creating that Parisian vibe.
Cheers to creating the perfect Parisian vibe!