This year marks my second December of living in Paris, and naturally, I’ve continued to partake in my favourite pastime of people-watching and deducing how French women dress. This November, I’ve turned my attention to evening wear and end-of-year parties. Partywear dredges up thoughts of dresses clad in weighty sequins, glistening adornments and towering heels and whilst French women do appreciate bold party styles, their outfit references are typically understated, give or take.
French women's style makes for the ultimate inspiration this season but you needn’t hoop on a Eurostar. Allow me to be your eyes on the ground, with the addition of Instagram, to bring you all the inspiration you need. Although we always look to these women for their basics—it's the party outfits we're most interested in right now. And rightly so considering brunches, dinner gatherings and after-dark soirées are already filling up our diaries. So whether you look to Anne Laure Mais for how to wear the sheer maxi dress outside of the home or Anne-Victoire Lefèvre for the art of dressing with simplicity, here are seven French women–approved party looks you can re-create with ease.
1. Sheer Dress + Heeled Sandals
Style Notes: I've spotted many French women wearing noughties-style slip dresses and other clothing comprising sheer elements. Pair sheer dresses with a slip underneath if you're easing your way into this style!
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The sheer dress phenomenon is much appreciated in France. Especially during party season.
Why not opt for pearls instead of a sequin clutch?
Aeyde bring the goods, yet again.
2. Bardot Top + Maxi Skirt
Style Notes: A great going-out top will elevate an entire host of outfits. Make like Marissa and pair this simple look with shoes in a golden hue.
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This may be a bold claim but I think everyone should invest in a bardot top!
Ninety Percent basics are much loved by editors worldwide.
A pebbled jewel to go with every outfit.
The time for glitz and glamour is nigh.
Don't sleep on flats this season, especially when they're this good and affordable.
3. Mini dress + Embellished Sandals
Style Notes: If in doubt, bring out the mini dress. Julie Sergent Ferreri shows how to do it right with the statement Taller Marmo and mules. Also, all hail the return of the sparkly strap just in time for party season.
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Taller Marmo dresses are so special.
Your party bag, sorted.
Bejeweled sandals are guaranteed to put a smile on your face. If not now, then when?
4. Maxi Dress + Clutch Bag
Style Notes: Ah, the humble maxi dress. Ready to be worn all year round, no matter the occasion, it's the do-it-all dress French girls love to wear. Make like Amy Julliette Lefévre and keep the look simple and sleek with minimal accessories.
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This dreamy Reformation dress will be the backbone of your winter wardrobe.
It's hard to believe its high street.
The jewellery collaboration of the season.
Some of this season's most darling mules.
5. Knit Dress + Shearling Jacket
Style Notes: Knitted dresses are here to stay. They're an integral part of any French girl's wardrobe, and it's no surprise they work after dark with a fuzzy shearling jacket and slicked hairstyle.
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One of my favourite jackets on the high street.
You'll spot a shoulder bag in every French woman's wardrobe.
Every woman will benefit from a bodycon dress. Wear it as a layering or standalone piece.
I adore hammered metal with the softness of pearls.
I've deemed these Cinderella shoes.
6. Wrap Dress + Heeled Sandals
Style Notes: Stylish and clever, French women know how to take a day dress and turn it into an evening look. Add accessories to elevate the look further.
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Take the classic wrap from day to date night.
Add this layered pearl choker to Bardot or deep V-necklines.
A typical French-style sandal.
Just look at the handle!
7. Waistcoat + Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: History has proven that you can't go wrong with a matching uniform and bright whites are apt for icy days. This tonal outfit is made complete with cream mesh shoes.
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Once a trend, waistcoats have now become a timeless staple.
A tailored trouser to mix and match.
Loeffler Randall accessories are perfect for festive parties and weddings.
Breathtakingly beautiful.
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