13 Flattering Style Rules Almost Every French Girl Follows

It’s no secret that there’s a certain je ne sais quoi when it comes to French-girl style. It’s polished yet effortless. Classic yet cool. And it always seems to highlight a figure in just the right way. There's a reason it's one of the main styles we're always taking inspiration from. From Jeanne Damas to Anne-Laure Mais of Adenorah, the elegant-meets-badass style that’s unequivocally French has been the source of numerous double-taps and outfit pinnings for years. So who better to illustrate Parisian slimming styling secrets than the French trendsetters themselves? Equip yourself with these need-to-know tricks, and you’ll be perfectly poised for your own street style moment.

We're spilling their secrets. From dresses to pantsuits to wide-leg jeans and more, there's a simple way to help your wardrobe get one step closer to Parisian. Keep reading to find out the 13 slimming style tips almost every French girl follows.

Add a belt to define the narrowest portion of your body, your waist.

Not only does cinching your outfit at the waist define your figure, but it also adds a chic accessory to your look, giving it an instant upgrade.

On Camille Charrière: See by Chloé dress; Acne Studios belt; Jimmy Choo Anouk Suede Pumps ($575)

Use vertical stripes to elongate any look. If you're daring, go for head-to-toe stripes for maximum effect. 

Vertical stripes create an illusion of length. Whether you're tall, short, or somewhere in between, you can never go wrong with a little elongation to help you stand out.

On Kenza Sadoun: Emanuel Ungaro Striped Blazer in Navy/Nude ($1505), Striped High Waisted Trousers in Navy/Nude ($729), and belt; Adidas Originals Superstar Sneakers ($80)

Ditch cropped jackets for a long blazer or trench instead. The result will create a long line for a lengthening effect.

There's a reason trench coats are the go-to jacket for French girls. These slimming coats are the perfect extra layer for a chic yet elegant look.

On Caroline de Maigret: AMI jacket; Charlotte Chesnais Horn Gold-Plated and Silver Necklace ($1240); T by Alexander Wang Linen T-Shirt ($146)

Trust: Good flares have magical powers.

The volume of the pant leg balances out the width of your hips, making you look taller and thinner. Plus, they're so chic.

On Sarah Nait: April77 T-shirt; & Other Stories Tailored Flare Trousers ($125) ($63)

Achieve an instant hourglass figure with a wrap dress or skirt, which creates a diagonal line to define your midsection.

Not only does a miniskirt elongate your legs, but a wrap skirt in particular adds another dimension by drawing attention to your curves and waist.

On Anne-Laure Mais: ASOS skirt and sandals

Match the color of your pants to your shoes, and avoid showing any skin to make a continuous line. 

This little trick will make your legs look longer and leaner, especially if you wear heeled booties.

On Jeanne Damas: LaContrie Burgundy Calf Leather Cross Body Bag ($850)

Accessorize with a long scarf or necklace to elongate your torso.

Adding an accessory to look adds a dynamic dimension to your outfit while also being flattering.

On Adeline Rapon: ASOS scarf; Monki Super Stretch Washed Jeans ($51); Topshop booties

For legs that go on for miles, try a pair of high-rise pants.

This trick will make your lower half appear longer than your upper, giving you the long legs you've always wanted.

On Labériane Ponton: Louis Vuitton Twist MM Bag ($3550)

The monochrome look is in style right now, and it's insanely flattering. Wear one color from head to toe to avoid any visual breaks. 

Wearing one color is super elongating while remaining elegant. Try an all-black or all-white look for an extra slimming effect.

On Denni Elias: Dior Technos Sunglasses ($560); Ports 1961 top; Seafarer jeans; Alaïa sandals

Any heels will make you taller, and but pointy-toe heels gives you an extra lengthening effect. 

Want to get the most out of your shoes? Try a nude pair.

On Anne-Laure Mais: Vintage Saint Laurent blazer; Levi’s jeans

While a typical A-line skirt breaks up your legs, causing them to look shorter, a skirt with a side or asymmetrical slit actually extends the natural line of your leg. 

This fresh take on the mini skirt is the easiest way to show off your legs while remaining on-trend. 

On Sarah Nait: Joseph coat; T by Alexander Wang T-shirt; Ivy Revel Saline Skirt ($68); Alexander Wang boots

The pencil skirt is a French staple piece for a reason: The style gives you an hourglass figure every time. 

This silhouette helps draw attention to your hips while keeping things covered up in a classic, elegant way. You can't go wrong with a pencil skirt.

On Sarah Nait: Tommy Hilfiger sunglasses

Looking to show some skin? Do it strategically. Look for cutouts or eyelets that emphasize your waistline. 

These cutouts leave something to the imagination while still showing off your body in a subtle but flattering way. 

On Vivi Courtin: Mugler dress; Edie Parker Jean Solid Clutch ($895)

This article was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated by Emily Greenberg. Want to nail Parisian style? Find out how French girls really develop their looks.