The French girl aesthetic is more than just a chic outfit or a morning spent leisurely enjoying a cup of espresso. The lifestyle of a French girl transcends beyond the city of Paris and is coveted by so many of us (myself included) for its effortlessly cool, iconic vibes. If you’re looking for a style refresh this year, there’s a lot of inspiration to be found in the French lifestyle and Paris aesthetic. Whether you’re looking to revamp your closet, your home decor, or maybe just your day-to-day routine, keep reading for a deep dive into the (not so) secret life of a Parisian woman.
Parisian Fashion
Parisian fashion could be described as classic, timeless, edgy, and chic, all at the time time. While that may seem impossible, once you’ve seen it firsthand (or in photos) you’ll catch my drift! And the best part about it? French women make their style seem so effortless. Somehow, they’ve rolled out of bed and thrown on a perfectly tailored yet slouchy look that embodies their own personal style.
Of course, there are certain wardrobe basics that make it so much easier to achieve this seemingly effortless style. Once you have the basics down, you can mix and match pieces until you’ve nailed tried and true looks that make you feel amazing – and that still feel like you.
Let’s break it down so that you have an idea of what those wardrobe basics look like for each season with the Paris aesthetic.
Spring
Can anything beat Paris in the spring? Envision fresh flowers colorfully arranged by sellers on the sidewalk, blooming trees, and the perfect temperature to enjoy a leisurely afternoon sprawled on a park lawn with a good book. Of course, it’s also the perfect time to enjoy fashion that comes along with thawing temperatures. The Paris aesthetic includes pieces like floral wrap dresses, leather sandals, a woven basket for the market, a quality white t-shirt, bold sunglasses, and a slim pair of jeans. Follow along for more spring staples.
1. Trench Coat
First on our list of French spring wardrobe essentials: the classic trench coat. This wardrobe staple can be worn in any season, but spring is an especially fitting time for this layer. It will elevate any look – even a simple white t-shirt and jeans with its timeless appearance. Plus, many trench coats are waterproof which makes them perfect for a mild, sometimes rainy climate in Paris.
2. Wrap Dresses
Also on the list of spring pieces loved by French women is an easy, breezy wrap dress. Not only is this style of dress flattering on every body type and shape, but it’s also an effortless piece to style up or down depending on the occasion. Whether you wear it with flats or heels, it can take you from work to play with ease.
3. Cardigan
Cardigans embody three important facets of French women and the Paris aesthetic: they’re timeless, classic, and easy to layer. In fact, the cardigan for women was popularized by Parisian fashion icon Coco Chanel. She hated messing up her hair taking on and off traditional knitwear, so she designed a cardigan for women that was comfortable and looser than tight-necked pullovers.
French weather can be temperamental, and a cardigan is easy to shrug on and off throughout the day. It’s also the perfect way to make a look appear more intentional and put together. However, not all cardigans are created equal: try to search out quality fabrics like 100% cashmere, cotton, or wool for long-lasting pieces.
4. Ballet Flats
Another French muse can be credited for influencing the popularity of a classic fashion staple. Brigitte Bardot, a French actress, model, singer, and animal rights activist helped to popularize the ballet flat. She was a former ballet dancer herself and loved the practicality of the flat shoe worn on the uneven cobblestones of Paris. She wore them with everything from capri pants and a tank top to mini dresses. Their practicality, as well as their understated yet elegant look, is the reason they’re still a mainstay in French fashion today.
Summer
Summer in Paris is late-night strolls through the city, a crisp glass of champagne, and silky dresses. The French girl enjoys the City of Lights at night with a few friends around a cafe bistro table, cocktail in hand. Paris comes alive after dark, but during the day Parisians flock to green spaces for a work break in the shade, or maybe a picnic along the Seine. The Paris aesthetic in summer features fabrics like linen and cotton, breezy button-down shirts, wide-leg linen pants, striped t-shirts, strappy sandals, and chic sundresses.
1. Slip Dress
Slip dresses are simple, yet sophisticated. It’s easy to see why they’re a staple in a Parisian woman’s closet. Their streamlined silhouette fits right in with the essence of French fashion, which is to look polished without being overly styled. They’re also an easy piece to layer, and adapt for work to a late dinner with a change in footwear and outer layers. Wear a tee underneath for a casual daytime look, or dress them up for the evening with an oversized blazer and slingback heels.
2. Striped Marinière
Did you know that the Marinière used to be a staple of the French navy uniform? The distinctive blue and white stripes helped to make sailors visible in case they fell overboard. Over time the shirt style became popular in French street style, worn by icons like Coco Chanel and expatriate Pablo Picasso. It’s a classic pattern to add to your capsule wardrobe.
Need a list to help you figure out what exactly to include in your capsule wardrobe? We have a free resource that you can sign up for here.
3. Tailored Shorts
You would be hard-pressed to find many Parisian women wearing denim cut-off shorts. Instead, they choose to stay cool with an elevated look of the summer classic. Dress shorts, or tailored shorts, offer the same relief from the European heat but in a way that appears more put together and stylish than their denim counterpart.
If you want to go the extra mile, pair them with a sleek leather belt. Accessorize with a pair of clean sneakers, or those ballet flats I mentioned earlier.
4. White Sneakers
Speaking of sneakers, a clean pair of (mostly) white sneakers is a staple in a Parisian’s wardrobe. Parisians do a LOT of walking, and it makes sense to own a pair of comfortable shoes that are also chic! Veja Campos and Adidas Sambas or Gazelles are especially popular choices. They fit right into the effortlessly cool Paris aesthetic.
Fall
There’s a romantic charm to the city when fall rolls around. The leaves turn golden, locals are back from their summer holidays, and the city is settling in for what’s to come as the temperatures start to drop. The air is crisp in the morning, while the afternoons are warm enough for a game of pétanque (a popular pastime similar to bocce ball). Of course, there’s also Paris Fashion Week – an annual highlight that brings designers, models, and fashion enthusiasts to the city from all over the world.
1. Tall Boots
Knee-high boots never really go out of style, and are the perfect complement to dresses, skirts, and trousers. Layer tights underneath or a thick pair of socks for cooler temperatures. They offer warmth, comfort, and weather protection. French women treasure long-lasting, well-made products and a pair of quality leather boots fits the bill.
2. Straight-Leg Jeans
Although denim trends come and go, straight-leg jeans have true staying power. They flatter every body type and are easy to take from day to night. French women pair them with everything from a white t-shirt and a blazer to a more refined blouse. Look for a pair without holes or rips for a true Paris aesthetic.
3. Button-Down Shirt
Parisian style is all about versatile pieces that can be worn in a number of different ways. They value quality or quantity, and that’s why many capsule wardrobe pieces align with French style. A button-down shirt is the perfect example – it’s the ideal layering piece that can add an easy touch of sophistication to any look.
4. Square Scarf
Small details make a big difference in French fashion. French girls love the little touches that set their style apart, like a pair of colorful socks or a bright silk scarf. French women often appreciate quality fabrics, and a luxurious scarf from a designer like Hermès is the perfect finishing touch to any look.
Winter
The French girl loves winter for its quiet calm. She’ll bundle up in a thick scarf and gloves to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine at Café de Flore. The streets are quiet, and most tourists are gone for the season. Temporary ice rinks pop up around the city for outdoor fun, while it’s also the perfect time to enjoy indoor attractions like the opera, art museums, and galleries. The following pieces are perfect for building the perfect winter in Paris aesthetic.
1. Ankle Boots
Ankle boots with a square or pointed toe can help to elongate the leg for a flattering look. They’re a chic alternative to heels and can be worn with everything from dresses to maxi skirts to workwear. They offer the perfect amount of edge to French fashion and are a great solution to colder, rainy winter weather.
2. Thick Scarf
Just like a small square scarf, a colorful wool scarf is the perfect accessory to otherwise neutral winter looks. It adds texture, warmth, and color to any outfit. Plus, it’s the perfect way to incorporate personal expression into a simple look.
3. Wool Coat
French girls know that a chic coat is the first impression of their winter outfits. Quality makes a difference, both for style purposes and practical ones! Look for a tailored version with a high percentage of wool in the fabric contents.
4. Tailored Trousers
Swap out your leggings for tailored trousers – it’s the French girl way. They’ll elevate any look, but can also be dressed down with a sweatshirt and sneakers. They offer the same comfort as leggings but with a more elegant appearance.
Related: The Best French Capsule Wardrobe for a Classic Fall and Winter (With 40 Outfit Ideas)
Beauty
Let your natural beauty and features shine if you want to emulate the French girl makeup aesthetic. Good skincare is key to needing minimal makeup. Focus on hydration, both on the skin and on the lips for a natural, dewy glow from the inside out.
French girls typically wear little makeup on a daily basis: think mascara, a bit of concealer or a skin tint, and maybe a red lip for a pop of color in the evenings. The same thing goes for nails: a French girl loves natural, clean-cut nails. Her occasional coat of polish is typically a neutral shade or a classic variation of red.
When it comes to hair, many French women embrace their natural color and texture. Focus on good hair health and styling, with the help of a French pin if you’d like to throw it up in elegant chignon. If you’re looking to make the big chop, you might consider the timeless French bob.
Related: The French Girl Beauty Guide for Effortlessly Beautiful Skin
Home
Art is one of the central influences of a French girl’s apartment. Whether it’s an ornate, antique-style gold mirror, a marble fireplace mantle, or a painting by a French artist, a mix of modern and contemporary pieces fills a Parisian’s home.
French decor is all about balance. Antiques balance out more modern, new elements. An array of textures help the home to feel lived-in, rather than too much like a museum. Natural elements like greenery and rustic wood furniture help to complement the elegant marble and gold accents.
Little details contribute to a relaxed and refined atmosphere. A French home is perfect for hosting a dinner party for friends, or a slow morning with pastries and espresso. Candles with natural, warm scents and soft lighting fill the space.
Life
The French girl mindset is a feeling that finds inspiration from the Parisian lifestyle and culture, but that doesn’t mean parts of it can’t be incorporated into your own life. If you ever have the opportunity to visit Paris, you might just find yourself bringing back more than just souvenirs. The atmosphere in Paris is magic, and you can take your favorite parts home with you.
Meet your friend for a long lunch at your local cafe. Enjoy a cup of espresso and a fresh-baked pastry. Don’t rush – take your time, and order seconds if you’d like. French culture understands the importance of food, and celebrating a good meal. The dining experience in France is not meant to be rushed.
Visit your local farmer’s market on the weekend for produce and bread. Focus on eating healthy, whole foods. The French treat their food like their fashion: they value quality over quantity. Look for organic choices that are free from preservatives, and only buy what you need.
Romanticize the little moments in life. Walk, instead of drive, if you can. Stop and smell the flowers (and take a bouquet home with you). Read the paper while you enjoy your morning coffee. Host a dinner party, and enjoy good conversation. Focus on a healthy work-life balance – there will always be more work to do, and it’s important to take care of your well-being and total person. Take care of yourself from the inside out – nourish your body with healthy food, have a nightly skincare routine, prioritize sleep, and do things that make you happy.
Paris Aesthetic Inspiration
The Parisian State of Mind
The iconic French girl lifestyle can teach us how to slow down, and enjoy all that life has to offer. From fashion to food, it imparts the importance of quality over quantity. If you’re looking to make a change with a style (or lifestyle) refresh, hopefully, this has provided some inspiration if you’re curious about how to get the Paris aesthetic wherever you live.
Want more information about how to decorate your home like a Parisian interior designer? Up Next: Chic Design Tips to Style a Parisian Apartment
