5 tips to pull off a classic french style

Stroll down any bustling Parisian street and you’ll notice how each local’s outfit exudes class almost effortlessly. This particular style is hard to pin down at first, because it’s not exactly what they’re wearing but how they’re wearing it. Sartorialists around the world are on a constant quest to emulate the ever enigmatic je ne sais quoi that seems to define French flair. Today, we’ll look at some tips on how you can pull off the classic French style.

less is more

The French abide by Mademoiselle Coco Chanel’s famous style rule: “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.” French style is all about simplicity and understatement. Jewelry is usually kept to a minimum. Be Frassy’s Audrey Rodgers says she never wears more than three pieces of jewelry at a time, because anything more than that would only clutter her outfit. When it comes to statement pieces, they should always stand on their own. Parisians usually pair a statement piece like a printed scarf, hat, bag or shoes with neutral elements to balance the look.

when in doubt, go neutral

While Americans might like to wear plenty of colors all at once, French model Julia Roitfeld says that French women prefer neutrals. “Even on the red carpet, French celebrities keep it minimal,” Roitfeld shared in an interview with Insider. “Keep your palette simple [with] a lot of beige, grey, navy, black, and white.” With neutrals, you’re sure to exude an effortless sophistication. If you want to look extra sleek, black on black is the easiest way. Moreover, the slimming color suits the straight silhouette many French strive to achieve. To work the look, it’s popular among French bloggers to wear an all-black outfit but leave a pop of color through one item of clothing or accessory.

Pay attention to your shoes

Shoes can make or break any French outfit. Style icon Ines de la Fressange recommends maintaining an element of surprise when it comes to shoes. “If they think you’ll wear heels, wear flats. If they expect flats, wear heels.” It’s a tool used to elevate or take an outfit down a notch — often the key to the relaxed that aesthetic at which the Parisians are experts. Style staples for Parisians are Commes des Garçons sneakers, ballet flats and low-heeled shoes.

dress up, not down

You’ll never catch a French person walking the streets of Paris in leggings, flip-flops and a hoodie. Whether it’s going to the bank or going to a party, Parisians always look put together. This doesn’t mean stepping out in formal wear all the time, but the French find pieces of clothing that can work for both casual and formal settings. Woman Within’s 7-day knit straight leg pant makes for a good French style staple, as it’s versatile enough for walking around Paris’ streets during the day and heading out to a bar at night. Plus, it can be used for corporate wear too.

borrow from the guys

French women opt to do away with hip hugging and busty pieces of clothing that Americans are popular for. Instead, they wear more relaxed silhouettes that resemble men’s style. Culottes, knee-length women’s trousers that flare wide enough to look like skirts, was born in France during the French revolution. Girl Friday Culottes by Liesl + Co are perfect pleated pants that would suit the relaxed, androgynous French style you’re going for. For a casual look, pair it with a statement t-shirt. If you’re headed for a night out, wear a loose silky blouse for that laidback chic look.

Thanks to our contributing writer Alice Kirby for this insightful glimpse into classic French style!