When it comes to determining the next big trends, the runway is usually the first place I turn. After all, the designer collections are where the most notable fashion movements start, so it's always interesting to see them untainted and in their original form. From there, I like to take to Instagram to see how these trends translate in real life; by way of actual outfits. If something has made the leap from the catwalk to TikTok, I know it holds merit. Taking this a step farther, I thought I'd narrow my research even further, specifically looking at the fashion trends French people are backing for 2024. Why? Because I appreciate their nuanced approach to trends.
We often talk about how the French aesthetic is heavily built on wardrobe classics, never-date pieces that make getting dressed a simplified process. And while this stands to reason, I have noticed that the recent looks of the French people are closely following and mirroring some of 2024's overarching trends.
From embracing the latest It hues to showcasing an update on the biggest shoe trend of the last year, Gallic girls know how to make a trend look like a necessity. I, for one, plan on joining them.
Scroll on to see the 2024 fashion trends French women are backing, many of which I reckon you'll have lurking somewhere in your wardrobe. If not, I've also shopped out some key buys for you, too.
9 ELEGANT FRENCH FASHION TRENDS TO TRY IN 2024:
1. POPS OF RED
Style Notes: Red has been one of the biggest trends of the last year and it's proving to be just as prevalent for 2024 (if not more so). The French way to wear it? In pops, as it turns out. A jumper knotted around your shoulder, a shoe to pep up an all-black outfit, or a scarf used to brighten an old coat—this is how Parisians have adopted the trend.
Shop the Trend:
You'll wear this all year round.
Fashion people everywhere are hopping on this classy trend.
2. MULTI-STRAP MARY JANES
Style Notes: Mary Janes have been a runaway shoe trend for the past few seasons. If you have already invested in a pair, this will be music to your ears. If not, then there's still time. Follow the French lead by seeking out pairs with more than one strap across the top of your foot for the freshest take.
Shop the Trend:
So easy to take from day to night.
A lower heel that you can wear all day.
3. CAPE DETAILS
Style Notes: Chic cape details keep cropping up across the new-season collections, and French women have been the earliest adopters of the look. Make like Sylvie Mus and layer a poncho over basic tops and shirts for on-trend appeal, or look for pieces with capes built in already to really devote yourself to it.
Shop the Trend:
So elegant.
Perfect for the transitional UK weather.
4. "OLD MONEY" EVERYTHING
Style Notes: The "old money" aesthetic isn't new, but it still feels current with the change in season. French style has always gone hand-in-hand with this classic look, with influencers continuing to showcase quiet luxury looks as we edge closer to the end of 2024. For me it comes down to accessories; a sumptuous cream handbag being the ultimate indulgence, while a pair of designer sunnies will give every outfit instant, "old money" polish.
Shop the Trend:
The woven fabric is instantly recognisable.
The sunglasses on every fashion person's radar.
5. CANARY YELLOW
Style Notes: Yellow is one of the biggest colour trends of 2024, and I've just seen three French influencers in the space of a week wearing this very specific canary-yellow hue. Considering their usual wardrobe centre on a heavily neutral palette, this is perhaps the most noteworthy of all the trends I've listed.
Shop the Trend:
The most elegant fit.
Note the corset details!
6. STATEMENT CHOKERS
Style Notes: Where the earring has dominated 2023, the focus has shifted to neckwear in 2024, and French girls are into it! Opting for chunky black ribbon chokers with even chunkier pendants dangling from them, this look is so '90s but, worn with pieces such as a basic long-sleeved top, it also feels inherently French.
Shop the Trend:
Statement chokers are back in for 2024.
For when you really want to make a statement.
7. GREY JEANS
Style Notes: At just about every 2024 press day I've attended, I've seen a pair of grey jeans. Now, the market is starting to ramp up, too, with more grey jeans on offer than ever before. Make like Julie Sergent Ferreri and invest in a wide-leg pair, and blend with co-ordinating outerwear.
Shop the Trend:
In this season's balloon leg fit.
I've heard nothing but good things about Toteme's denim.
8. PLAID PRINTS
Style Notes: Aside from Anne-Laure's cool blue shirt and leather slingbacks, what struck me most was her plaid skirt. Checks were a mainstay on the 2024 runway circuit, which is great as, chances are, this is a motif you've already bought into previously. If not, Acne Studios and Sandro have your back.
Shop the Trend:
This will look so good with brown tights when autumn comes.
I adore this skirt.
9. LONG SHORTS
Style Notes: We all know by now that shorts are a summer staple, however, I often find shorter pairs much harder to style. Enter the longer, Bermuda short that looks effortlessly elegant with any shirt or tank top in the warm weather, and can easily be taken into early autumn with a knitted jumper or cardigan.
Shop the Trend:
So chic!
This beige pair is just as versatile.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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