5 Ways to Add Parisian Style Into Your Wardrobe

Women around the world have been trying to emulate Parisian style for years (and for good reason). It is known to be carefree, effortless, sophisticated, and romantic all at once.

In some cases, it highlights a stark contrast between the traditional French woman and an American woman. Now, don’t get me wrong - I have a true admiration for both styles individually. I can appreciate that American women seem to take more risks, embrace new trends, and challenge fashion boundaries.

That being said, there is something about a French woman who is so obviously confident in her own style - no matter what the current trend is. She knows that she is sexy without fussing over her look too much. She has taken careful consideration into shopping for quality, timeless pieces that fit impeccably beforehand, so she feels confident that whatever she may throw together when walking out the door will look chic on her.

While I never want to dress as someone other than myself (and I don’t encourage you too, either), I do believe there are certain aspects from a Parisian woman’s wardrobe and fashion handbook that we can learn from.

Without doing an entire overhaul of your closet, I encourage you to read these 5 tips and take what you feel resonates. I’m in the business of enhancing your personal style and confidence in what you wear - not erasing it.

Although I have only visited Paris once, ever since I can remember, I have had a full-on love affair with the fashion culture, architecture, language, and city as a whole. Over the past few years, I have leaned more and more into the French way of dressing - between my obsession of berets, to monochromatic looks, romantic silhouettes, and embracing quality over quantity when shopping.

For the past week, I’ve spent my evenings doing a deep dive on the internet into the French way of dressing. I wanted to find a way to simplify the rules most Parisians swear by when it comes to fashion. So, after many hours of research, I am sharing 5 tips for adding Parisian influence into your wardrobe in a way that feels authentic to you.

Continue below for my Parisian-inspired outfit, 5 tips, and 22 outfits from French women that I love!

01. Invest in basics

This tip truly lays the foundation for how Parisian women dress. They choose classic, neutral staples that are high-quality, versatile, and timeless over trends that come and go with the season.

The staple items in every French woman’s closet (ideal for warmer months) include: a blazer, white culotte pants, scarf, flowy midi dress, silk skirt, white button-down shirt, simple tank, cardigan, high-waisted shorts, kitten heels, white sneakers, ballet flats, wedge espadrilles, and of course, the signature beret.

If your wardrobe consists only of these 14 items, you are set for the season. The great thing about investing in high-quality, neutral basics is that you can swap out the pieces interchangeably depending on the time of day or setting.

When shopping for basics, remember to choose items that are comfortable, a bit oversized, and not too short. You also want to pay attention to the fabrics; ideally, look for items that feel rich and luxurious (like a silky blouse or midi skirt), or light and airy (like a pair of linen shorts or a button-down).

Avoid anything that is intentionally ripped or distressed as French women opt to look sophisticated and pulled together instead. The goal is effortless, not sloppy.

02. Remember less is more

Parisian women have a way of looking like they just stepped out of a fashion show without appearing overdone or overly styled.

The way they do this is by choosing minimalism over clutter while getting dressed. The goal is to appear like you simply woke up like that; as if you walked out of the door nonchalantly without much fuss.

Ditch the bulky jewelry, flashy handbag, and bold, conflicting colors. Instead, opt for petite sunglasses, a simple shoulder bag, and stick to 1 or 2 colors total in an outfit. In short, think dainty, effortless, and attainable.

Now, this goes for beauty as well! Stick to natural hair styling and makeup for daytime and opt for a swipe of classic red lipstick and mascara for a special occasion or date night.

03. Keep logos to a minimum

“The worst fashion faux pas is to have two logos on the same outfits. Wearing obvious ‘rich items’ in France is considered tacky.” - Aloïs Guinut

Parisian women let their clothes speak for themselves. It’s all in how you wear something, not what you’re wearing. The rule of thumb here is to have no more than one visible brand at a time.

If possible, avoid anything with an obvious logo printed on the front (like a Gucci sweatshirt, for example). The one exception to this is a classic Chanel double-flap chain shoulder bag, as they are a staple and notoriously passed down in the family for French women.

When you are sticking to simple, solid basics, even if designer, you don’t need to flaunt the brand or show off. The quality and thoughtful styling will read “chic” from a mile away.

04. Whenever possible bare your legs

While French women don’t choose items that are super short or skin-tight, they do find more subtle ways to be sexy and romantic.

The most common way is to wear midi skirts, loose high-waisted shorts, or flowy dresses with a slit to show off their legs. For a casual look, pair these items with simple white sneakers or flats.

05. Differentiate yourself with vintage pieces

Now, while some people may say that Parisian fashion is boring, I disagree. I think that not only is it sophisticated and chic, but French women are experts at choosing incredible vintage pieces to differentiate themselves for each look.

Flea markets and vintage boutiques aren’t just for Sunday morning strolls anymore. These excursions are perfect opportunities to hunt for items that will add personality to your outfit without overdoing it. From a one-of-a-kind brooch to a leather belt, vintage handbag, or colorful scarf, these delicate details paired with effortless basics will make you stand out in a stylish way.

Now, for some of my favorite stylish Parisian looks:

Shop my look:

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Which French-inspired look is your favorite? Let me know by commenting on my latest Instagram post, or by tagging me in your OOTD with the hashtag #herblushingstyle!

Want more style inspiration? Read 30 Outfits to Copy for Fourth of July and Summer Sales to Shop Right Now.

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xo Anna Elizabeth