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Jane Birkin-inspired basket bags, tweed ladylike jackets, relaxed denim, black Mary Janes–what do all of these closet classics have in common? They’re the foundation of any French-girl approved outfit formula—and undeniably, très chic.
Vogue’s Top 10 PFW Street Style Standouts:
- The Great White Dress: Staud Wells midi dress, $285
- The Ladylike Jacket: Maje belted shiny tweed jacket, $495
- The Mary Jane: Repetto Rose Mary Jane heels, $455
- The Basket Bag: Maje mini woven basket bag, $295
- The Blue Jean: Citizens of Humanity Ayla baggy cuffed wide-leg organic jeans, $260
- The Strappy Sandal: Sandro sandals with narrow straps, $320
- The Boho Blouse: Maje embroidered ramie blouse, $385
- The Crochet Dress: Maje three-tone crochet dress, $645
- The Cropped Trench Coat: Frame khaki button jacket, $480
- The City Sneaker: Nike Waffle debut vintage sneakers, $80
Should your summer plans not lend themselves to a trip across the Atlantic, you might as well look the part while still remaining stateside. And who better to show that effortless French fashion we all aspire to other than the Parisian street style scene? Below, we’ve combed through Vogue’s archives from past to present to find the 14 best Paris Fashion Week street style worth recreating this summer. Editor’s note: Croissant, tube of red lipstick, and beret are not required, but certainly encouraged.
A Great White Dress Is Always in Style
A great white dress is one of those eternal wardrobe essentials well worth your investment. Fashion girls from all over can be spotted sporting their go-to LWDS, but in Paris, the staple gets reimagined with a lightweight cropped trench coat and satin mini bag. An oversized pearl necklace is a simple, yet statement-making–a style sentiment that rings true for almost all pieces of French fashion.
How to Play with Prints, the French Girl Edition
Playful prints aren’t exactly synonymous with French girl style, however, this showgoer proves that pattern needn’t be ruled out. Peaking out ever-so-subtly, she styled her paisley-printed blouse underneath a classic black cropped jacket. To polish off the look, wide-leg black jeans always deliver; and same goes a pair of little black ankle boots. This is one outfit to wear on repeat come fall.
Dresses and Leather Jackets Are a Fail-Proof Outfit Combo
When the summer sunshine dips behind the clouds and temperatures feel unexpectedly cool, take a fashion tip from creative, Tamu McPherson, and style your summer dress underneath an oversized leather jacket for coverage and warmth. Accessories, like a silver sequin handbag or a sleek strappy sandal, promise to bring the cheer.
Is There Anything More Parisian than a Tweed Jacket and a Pair of Mary Janes?
Earlier this season, we reported on the rise of the ladylike jacket on the runways and city streets. In Paris, however, the staple has never waned from fashion, remaining a constant in every French girl’s closet. Proof can be found in how this showgoer styled her tweed version with a pair of relaxed denim and shiny black Mary Janes. The final result was timeless as ever–not like we ever questioned that.
French Girl On-The-Go
Master summer-in-the-city-style Paris edition with a chic yet comfortable sneaker, oversized denim jacket, and a tie-dye printed midiskirt. A practical bag to sling over your shoulders that doesn’t get in the way of your commute is another on-the-go must-have.
Strong Suiting, Sorted
Don’t consider yourself a dresses or skirts person? Try on a suit instead. Outside the famous Louvre museum, this street styler sported a sleek gray suit with a minimalist heeled sandal and dramatic pair of sunnies. The tailoring combo is a classic for a reason, while strong shoulders give it a fun fashion twist.
Pinstripe Perfection
A menswear-inspired pinstripe blazer is a capsule wardrobe item that’s earned its top spot in many a wardrobe. Like this polished Parisian, style yours simply with a straight-leg jean, heeled white loafer, and a shiny shoulder bag.
Staples With a Twist
Not all French girl-approved tees have to be blue-and-white Breton stripes. Just turn to this showgoer, for example. Instead, opt for an oversized graphic tee to wear with denim Bermuda shorts and similarly statement-making accessories, like a cherry red handbag and a chunky silver charm bracelet.
Prints on Prints!
In a sea of neutrals and blacks, steal this French girls’ style and pack a colorful punch this summer. Start with a printed blouse followed by an equally festive midiskirt. Then, to keep things sleek, slip into a pair of beige suede loafers and carry an infamously-Parisian basket bag.
Modern Romance
A broderie blouse is another beloved wardrobe staple for any self-proclaimed Francophile. To complete the look, all you need is a tailored pair of trousers, sweet Mary Jane, easy carry all and voilà!
Never Underestimate the Easy Breeziness of a Summer Dress
Whether you’re strolling the Parisian streets or staying stateside, slipping into a fluid midi is an easy way to look polished without experiencing the stickiness of wearing too much fabric. When it comes to styling your new fabulous frock, this is where the fun begins. Rely on unexpected yet totally welcome accessories, like a great black sandal, chain belt, or denim handbag, to take your look to a new level entirely.
Boho Revival
If you haven’t heard, the boho revival is officially in full swing—and clearly, this street styler has taken note. Follow suit and style a crochet cropped top with a matching pant. Then, accessorize with a Western-inspired belt and a knitted tote bag to max out on the texture.
The Ultimate French Girl Outfit Formula
Ladylike jacket, worn-in blue jeans, black flats–could this be a more French girl-approved outfit formula? With the addition of a chain-link crossbody bag, we think not.
A Fresh Way to Wear Your Blue-and-White Striped Breton Tee
When in Paris, a blue-and-white striped Breton T-shirt is a style no brainer. From fashion girls to models off-duty, the staple reigns supreme time and time again. Freshen yours up by wearing it with an olive green cargo pant, preppy wax jacket, and a pair of Nike Dunk sneakers.