I hate to admit how much time I’ve spent trying to decipher exactly what a chic French woman would wear for virtually every occasion. There’s something about French style that remains endlessly fascinating; the effortless balance of polish and nonchalance, the ability to look impeccably put-together without ever appearing as though too much thought has gone into it. So, in pursuit of that elusive je ne sais quoi, I turned to the brands I always associate with understated elegance.

For dresses, it’s hard to beat COS, Dôen and Reformation. COS delivers the clean lines and minimalist silhouettes French women do so well, whilst Dôen offers the romantic details and vintage-inspired charm that feels equally at home wandering through Le Marais. Reformation, meanwhile, excels at elegant linen dresses and timeless shapes that feel inherently Parisian. Accessories play an equally important role. Basket bags and woven leather styles remain staples of the French wardrobe, and the best versions can be found at The Row, Bottega Veneta, COS and DeMellier, all of which master that quietly luxurious feel. Linen separates—from relaxed shirts and blouses to tailored shorts—are another cornerstone, with Zara and H&M offering particularly strong options this season.

And then, of course, there are the pieces no French-inspired wardrobe would be complete without: a beautiful blouse and great jeans. Whether it’s a lace-trimmed style from Sézane or an embroidered Zara find, a chic blouse has the power to elevate even the simplest outfit. Paired with timeless denim, my favourite AGOLDE pair included, you have the foundation of countless elegant outfits.

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