There’s nothing quite like shopping in Paris. Not only are the streets lined with the perfect assortment of small boutiques, big-name designers, and amazing vintage stores, but there’s also style inspiration everywhere you look. Although it would be amazing to fly out to Paris every weekend to shop, we can do the next best thing instead – shop like a French woman. If you want to get inside the mind of a Parisian, there’s 11 things you should know before you start browsing. Want to know what they are? Keep reading for tips about how to shop like a French woman.
1. Choose Quality Over Quantity
In Paris, closet real estate is almost as valuable as the apartments themselves. Older French apartments are often very limited on closet space, meaning that French women put a lot of thought into how they fill their wardrobes. There isn’t room for an excess of items, so each hanger is thoughtfully filled with pieces that will last and pair well with the other pieces hanging beside it.
With this in mind, French girls value quality over quantity while they’re shopping. They know that they have to find a space for each item they bring home, and so they want to be sure that the item they’re purchasing is a quality piece of clothing.
Instead of buying three white t-shirts, look for one that will hold up for a number of washes without stretching out. Or, instead of three pairs of trousers that you only somewhat like, keep searching until you find a single pair that you absolutely love.
2. Look for Both Style and Function
Speaking of limited closet space, a Parisian knows the importance of finding items that balance both style and function. From their comfortable shoes to a hooded trench coat, French women value items that not only look beautiful but also serve a purpose.
The French market tote is the perfect example. This style of bag was popularized in the south of France as women carried their produce to and from the market stalls. Now, it’s a staple French accessory. This style of bag can carry groceries, a book to enjoy in the park, and all of your daily necessities. Hence, beauty meets function.
3. Invest in Timeless Basics
One of the reasons that French girl style is so recognizable and iconic is that many pieces that French women wear have not changed much over time. Certain pieces have been staples in their wardrobes for decades, because French women don’t switch up their entire look based on fleeting trends.
If you want to curate your wardrobe like a French woman, take a look at the basic pieces that the French invest in. A quality trench coat, chic yet comfortable shoes, midi dresses in classic patterns… pieces like these are a great place to start. And because these basics never go out of style, you might want to consider investing a little bit more upfront when you purchase them. This ensures that you’re buying items that will last for years to come.
4. Prioritize Fit and Fabric
It’s not always viable (or reasonable) to tailor each piece of clothing you buy. Therefore, you’ll want to pay close attention to how an item is constructed when you’re thinking about purchasing it. If a piece of clothing is already wrinkled on a mannequin or the stitching is noticeably off when you take a closer look, it’s pretty safe to say that these little details won’t improve when you bring the item home.
Instead, look for pieces that are made with quality fabrics, with high contents of wool, linen, cotton, silk, etc. These pieces will typically hold up better over time, and also look better once you have them on your body, not to mention feel better! These fabrics will keep you cool in the summer or warm in the winter, depending on the material type.
5. Remember That Practical Footwear Is Chic
French women walk a lot, especially in Paris. Many use public transportation, or get where they need to be on foot. Therefore, they know the importance of comfortable, quality footwear.
If you’re thinking about purchasing a pair of shoes, consider the support that they give you. Also, take a look at how they’re constructed. Will they fall apart after just a few wears? Will they instantly look dirty the second you step outside?
These are all questions to ask yourself that might help you choose your next pair of favorite shoes. If you don’t know where to start, consider basics like a white pair of sneakers, ballet flats, loafers, and a flat pair of sandals.
6. Select Statement Items Wisely
Although French women typically don’t pay too much attention to trends, they do know the power of a strategic statement piece. French women love to express themselves through fashion, and a statement piece that reflects their personality is the perfect way to set themselves apart through their style.
Statement pieces can be tricky. Buy too many of them, and you’ll end up with a haphazard closet that’s difficult to style. It’s best to start with statement pieces in small quantities and choose ones that still adhere to a somewhat classic style. For instance, a pop of leopard print is the perfect way to incorporate a fun pattern into your look without going too over the top.
7. Own Your Individuality
Speaking of personal expression through style, French girls aren’t afraid to own their individuality with pieces that make them feel like their true selves. If you love feminine style, try reaching for frills, lace, or eyelet pieces to express that love. If you prefer a more masculine take on daily looks, try prioritizing button-downs, relaxed jeans, and structured jackets.
Don’t try to conform to a certain style or aesthetic if it doesn’t feel like you. French women know that confidence is huge when it comes to having a great sense of style. You’ll always feel best (and look your best) in pieces that are true to your sense of self.
8. Take Your Time
Rome wasn’t built in a day – and neither was a French girl’s wardrobe! French women understand the importance of taking their time when it comes to creating a chic, timeless wardrobe. There’s no room for impulse purchases in a French girl’s closet – she saves that space for carefully chosen pieces that were well thought-out and intentional.
If you are tempted by the sudden urge to purchase a piece as soon as you see it, you might want to pump the brakes. I’m not saying you shouldn’t buy it all, but try to slow your train of thought and analyze what appeals to you about the piece. Is it a timeless staple that will complement the other pieces in your closet? Would it fill a gap in your wardrobe? Is it well-made and a good investment piece? Or is it just a trendy item that appeals to you in this moment? Would it be difficult to style or pair with the other items you already own?
This line of questioning is important if you want to curate your wardrobe and style. Shopping is a process, not just a series of clicks or quick transactions. If you really want to focus on building a French girl-inspired wardrobe full of pieces you absolutely love, consider slowing yourself down whenever something new catches your eye. After all, slow and steady wins the race!
9. Remember, New Isn’t Always Best
If you know a little bit about French home decor, then you know that French women love to mix old and new pieces to create a curated look in their space. They know that antique or vintage pieces add depth to a room and a sense of history. The same philosophy goes for their closet! Paris is well-known for its vintage shops, and French women love to incorporate carefully chosen vintage finds into their looks. It’s an ethical, sustainable, and oftentimes cheaper way to find a treasure trove of unique pieces.
10. Embrace Minimalist Pieces
French girls know the value of keeping things simple in their daily style. Whether it’s their clothes, makeup routine, or hairstyle, they recognize that sometimes simple truly is best. And the same attitude is applied to their jewelry, too. French women value their minimalist, yet elevated jewelry pieces that they can wear in their everyday looks.
If you want to shop for jewelry like a French woman, stick to the classics. Think a simple pendant necklace on a gold chain, pearl stud earrings, or a delicate pair of gold hoops. These pieces will pair well with both your casual looks and your more elegant ones.
11. Mix High and Low Pieces
Although French girls certainly appreciate designer items (after all, their city is full of luxury store after luxury store), they don’t dress head to toe in recognizable luxury pieces. You might find them sporting a classic pair of Chanel flats or a woven tote featuring a designer label, but most French women tend to mix their high and low pieces.
For instance, try wearing your luxury pieces alongside some of your more casual ones. Use these high-ticket items strategically to elevate your day-to-day looks. It also ensures that you’re actually using your designer items, and not just saving them for special occasions!
Ready, Set, Shop
If you shop like a French woman, you’ll end up with a carefully curated closet full of pieces that not only pair well together but that will last for years to come. Your style will outlast any fleeting trends and will be comprised of well-made, quality pieces that make you feel great wearing them. What’s not to love about that?
Ready for more French girl style tips? Up Next: Create a French Girl Starter Wardrobe With These 13 Pieces
