If you're an avid reader of Who What Wear, by now you'll already be well-versed in the fundamentals of French-girl style (we're Francophiles over here, if you didn't already know!). We keep an eye on everything from their favorite brands to their go-to spring outfits and the jeans they just can't live without.
Today we're charting out the basics of a French woman's wardrobe in an attempt to make day-to-day dressing infinitely easier. While the new season is chock-full of trends for the taking, it's the staples that often get overlooked, yet they're undoubtedly the hardest-working items in our closet.
No one does staple pieces quite like the French, so what do they always have handy to anchor their looks? From high-waisted jeans to ballet flats and classic trench coats, keep scrolling to see and shop the reliable "boring" basics French women can't live without.
Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Comfortable, practical, and chic, neutral ballet flats will ground any outfit.
Trench Coat
Style Notes: What's the one item you'll find in every French woman's wardrobe? A tan trench coat, of course! Perfect for the unpredictable Parisian weather.
Lace Bra
Style Notes: French women put just as much emphasis on what's underneath their clothes as the outfits themselves. A comfortable and romantic lace bra is a must.
High-Waisted Cropped Jeans
Style Notes: You'll be hard-pressed to find a French woman who doesn't own a pair of high-waisted, slightly cropped, straight-leg or kick-flare jeans. These are the anchor to every French woman's look.
Fitted Long-Sleeved Tee
Style Notes: A fitted long-sleeved tee or top (always to be tucked into jeans) is a simple yet effective layering piece French women love.
Blazer
Style Notes: The staple adds instant polish to the most casual of outfits. It's clear the French are savvy to the power of a great blazer.
White Button-Down
Style Notes: French girls know a white button-down can solve any dressing dilemma.
Cardigan
Style Notes: It may be nondescript, but the humble cardigan is a go-to layering piece French girls love.
Ankle Boots
Style Notes: These are the hardest-working shoes in a French woman's wardrobe. Go for a neutral hue such as black, brown, or white.
Striped Sweater or Tee
Style Notes: You make think it's cliché, but the French really do love their stripes. An effortless striped sweater is always on hand.
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