The coveted French girl style that so many of us admire is about much more than fashion. It’s about the je ne sais quoi, in other words, some inherent quality that can’t be fully described. From their apartments to their outfits to their makeup routine, French women always seem to have it together. Yet, the effort never seems to stress them out. Maybe it’s because they always feel prepared – they know what they like, and what they need. Want an inside scoop on what things make up that list of needs? Keep reading for the 11 things that French women don’t leave home without.
1. A Spritz of Chanel No.5
French women love Chanel No.5 for its timeless, elegant fragrance. It’s one of the most well-known, iconic perfumes, both inside and outside of France. It was created by one of Paris’ most iconic style icons, Gabrielle (Coco) Chanel, herself in 1921.
When it comes to fragrances, French girls are very loyal to their scents. Just like their fashion, the French appreciate quality over quantity. When they fall in love with a piece of clothing, an accessory, or a fragrance, they are willing to spend a little more on an item that they’ll use for years to come.
A spritz of their favorite fragrance is the finishing touch on any French girl’s look. It not only personalizes their style, but also is part of the French girl’s motto to slow down and enjoy life’s little pleasures.
chanel
Chanel No.5
2. A Classic Leather Watch
A classic leather watch is one of a French girl’s favorite outfit details. Whether she chooses a vintage or new style, this functional piece of jewelry is the finishing touch on a chic, classic look. Plus, it allows her to keep her phone stored in her bag. When it comes to enjoying company with friends or attending a meeting at work, a watch ensures that she will never lose track of time while also keeping the distraction of a phone far away.
Although popular French luxury watchmaker Cartier might be popular, there are also far more affordable pieces that can still add a hint of luxury to your look.
daniel wellington
Quadro Mini Reflection Watch
3. Comfortable (Yet Chic) Footwear
French women love to wear shoes that are comfortable, yet chic. Many French women rely on public transportation and walking, especially in Paris, which means they gravitate toward shoes that are stylish, but that are also appropriate for walking long distances.
Enter the classic penny loafer. This shoe style is especially loved by French women for its timeless look and support. It’s also very versatile. Dress it down for a casual look (like the French girl pictured above), or elevate your workwear with a leather version of the elegant penny loafer.
MADEWELL
The Grayson Penny Loafer
4. The Sézane Justine Basket Tote
French brand Sézane is known for its quality, French capsule pieces. Although they do offer seasonal pieces, they’re most well-known for their Parisian staples like the white t-shirt, crisp button-down, straight-leg jeans, foulards (or neck scarves), and of course, the French basket tote.
The Justine Basket Bag is beloved by French girls for its timeless design that’s also extremely functional. It holds all of their essentials and more, and has a delicate weave and quality leather straps. Plus, there are two ways to carry it, depending on your preference.
Sézane
Justine Basket Bag
5. L’Occitane Hand Cream
The daily hair care and makeup routine of a French girl might be simple, but it focuses on minimalist, quality products that actually work. They prioritize taking care of their skin, so that they don’t have to cover it in too many products. This theory applies to their body care as well.
The French brand L’Occitane has a long association with quality, luxury products. Their shea butter hand cream is one of their most popular offerings, and comes in a small travel size that French girls can keep in their bag for use throughout the day. This cream absorbs well for maximum moisture, but doesn’t leave a greasy residue. It also has a minimal, yet calming scent that isn’t overpowering.
l’occitane
Shea Butter Hand Cream
6. La Bonne Brosse Travel Hairbrush
You may have heard of luxury hairbrush brand Mason Pearson, which originated in England. However, France has its own contender when it comes to the luxury haircare world. At a slightly lower price point than the Mason Pearson brushes, La Bonne Brosse offers regular and travel-size versions of their brush types.
French women love little luxuries, and a quality hairbrush elevates their getting-ready experience. Plus, they understand that a foundation of good hair health allows them to use fewer products overall. This can save them time and money! This thought process was explained by Delphine, a Parisian journalist and podcaster who uses the brush:
“The price spikes horribly, but if the beauty of hair and scalp health goes through a simple (good) brushing instead of more and more products, why not [spend a little more]? It’s also an object made in France, designed with quality and durable materials.”
la bonne brosse
No.4 Miracle Petite Hairbrush
7. Rouje Moisturizing Lip Balm
French model, business owner, and it-girl Jeanne Damas has the quintessential French make-up routine. She prioritizes skin care and minimal, quality products. She also started the popular French brand Rouje, which features a makeup line full of staple French products.
Moisturizing, tinted products are the perfect example of the French way when it comes to makeup. They prefer products that offer less coverage, but just enough to provide a little coverage. Overall, they typically stick to a little bit of blush, a slight amount of mascara and concealer, and perhaps a lip product. Rouje’s lip balm is a French girl’s go-to for its hydrating formula that also offers the perfect amount of color.
les filles en rouje
Lip Balm Set
Related: The French Girl Beauty Guide for Effortlessly Beautiful Skin
8. Bioderma Micellar Water
French girls are as particular about what they use to take off their makeup as they are about what products they choose to wear. They know how important good skincare is, and taking off what makeup they do wear is an important step to healthy skin. That’s why Bioderma Micellar Water is a non-negotiable step in their nighttime routine. If they’re traveling overnight, you better believe they’re bringing this along with them!
Bioderma Micellar Water gently removes makeup, creams, and dirt. It’s also a great choice for sensitive skin and eyes, and doesn’t strip the protective film and oils on top of the skin. This step is then followed by their favorite cleanser and their regular skincare routine.
bioderma
Micellar Water
9. CeraVe Facial Cleanser
Speaking of nighttime routine essentials, French women would never leave their facial cleanser at home. This vital part of their skincare ensures that they can wipe off any makeup or traces of their day to start fresh in the morning. After all, clean skin is the most important foundation for a good skincare routine!
French women don’t need fancy products when it comes to their facial products. What they care about most is that it actually works – the packaging and luxury aesthetic don’t necessarily mean the product is any better. Although it may seem simple, the CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser is a go-to for French women.
cerave
Foaming Facial Cleanser
10. A Pendant Necklace
French women love their capsule wardrobes, and that applies to their jewelry, as well. They appreciate timeless, quality pieces that don’t go out of style. They typically prefer a more understated look when it comes to their accessories, and pieces that can go with everything. Pearl stud earrings, small gold hoops, a leather watch, or a pendant necklace are all common pieces found in their collections.
The right piece of jewelry can put the perfect finishing touch on any chic look. A pendant necklace can elevate casual looks or contribute to an elegant evening outfit.
gorjana
Compass Coin Necklace
11. Cat Eye Sunglasses
Last, but not least, a French woman would never leave home without her sunglasses. The weather in France can be rather unpredictable, and you never know when the sun is going to re-emerge in full force! A quality pair of sunglasses not only looks chic but also provides important sun protection.
The cat-eye style is especially popular among French women. It’s a classic look, with a little bit of a feminine edge. They look great year-round and can add a fun touch to any outfit.
j.crew
Bungalow Cat-Eye Sunglasses
French Girl Necessities
Whether they’re packing for a night away or merely planning on a busy day out and about, French women are often found carrying these 11 essentials. Having a go-to list of comfort necessities makes packing a breeze and ensures that you’re never without your favorite things. Try incorporating some of these French girl pieces into your own list of non-negotiables for chic style, no matter where you’re headed next.
Ready for more tips from the effortlessly chic French women? Up Next: How to Shop Like a French Woman to Curate a Chic Closet
