People in Paris Wear These Elevated Basics to Look Refined
We routinely turn to Parisians for outfit ideas. After all, words like effortless, chic, and fuss-free are often associated with this set’s aesthetic. Given their je ne sais quoi approach to style, easy basics are often at the forefront of their everyday looks. On that note, there are a few elevated basics people in Paris are currently wearing to look refined.
Below you’ll uncover a sampling of the sleek and modern staples some of our favorite French women on Instagram incorporate into their ensembles to look elegant. As a preview, you’ll notice everything from stylish shorts to the shirting silhouette that reigns supreme. Want to add one of the basics to your offering? You’ll also find inspired shopping picks.
Tailored or Linen Shorts
A sleek pair of tailored shorts or a style in linen is perfect for the season and also quite elegant when paired with other basics.
High-Neck Tanks
While classic tank tops are also very chic, a style with a higher neck feels instantly polished.
Striped Shirts
Relaxed shirting continues to be a staple among the fashion crowd, including in Paris. A striped style is just perfection and can be dressed up or down.
Denim Skirts
Whether it's a mini, midi, or maxi, the ideal denim skirt is a forward yet simple basic that can be styled with a variety of items.
Neutral Dresses
Whether it's a slip dress or a simple cotton silhouette, a throw-on-and-go dress is inherently elegant.
Next, check out the summer shoes French women love.
Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent over seven years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises. He has also worked across a variety of other media brands and fashion retailers like Refinery29, PureWow, Men's Health, and Gilt covering commerce, trend reporting, women's and men's fashion, home, and lifestyle.
-
This Dated Denim Trend Is on Its Way Back—Here's How French Women Are Already Wearing It
Five outfit combos we're copying.
By Michelle Scanga
-
I'm Sad Too, But According to Parisians, These 7 Trends Aren't Making the Cut in 2025
Plus, the seven that are.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
People in Paris Wear These 4 Elegant Items, and They'll Be Essentials in 2025
Chic staples ahead.
By Bobby Schuessler
-
IG Has Billions of Accounts, But These 6 French Creators Will You Teach You Everything to Know About Style
Let them transport you straight to Paris.
By Emma Spedding
-
5 Affordable Wardrobe Investments French Women Are Making in 2025
On y va!
By Ana Escalante
-
This French Brand Has the Perfect Anti-Canvas Tote—and It's Already Trending
It's time to say goodbye to that scruffy old canvas shopper.
By Emma Spedding
-
Emma Chamberlain's World: Her Warby Parker Collab, Two-Phone Rule, and Spiciest Fashion Takes
"I just want to bring the most joy to people."
By Anna LaPlaca
-
6 Winter Accessory Trends All the Chic French Women Are Suddenly Into
The easiest outfit upgrades.
By Natalie Cantell