There’s two things we can be sure of for spring: 1) leopard print is certainly sticking around, and 2) French women are here to save anyone who doesn’t want to try out the bold trend with their spring capsule. Perfectly formed of basics that are anything but boring, we can always rely on these effortlessly cool fashion people to guide us all when it comes to items that will stand the test of time. Sure, trends are fun to try out, but there’s no harm in sticking to what you know and wearing them on repeat.
We’re talking the trench coat your wardrobe shouldn’t be without, a staple blazer (hello, The Frankie Shop), and the more recent waistcoat addition you can style a million ways. Then there’s not forgetting the Breton. This time, though, the T-shirt has taken a step back to make room for the striped polo or half-zip knit that’s so good, it keeps selling out all over the high street. Here’s your guide on how to embrace simple, spring basics that have all been approved by the most stylish women in France.
1. The Slip Dress
Style Notes: No matter the time of day, year or occasion, a slip dress will never fail. The slinky fabric looks effortless as a high/low look with trainers, too.
Shop Slip Dresses:
This dress comes in five different colours (including floral print), so there's a style for every personality.
A wardrobe staple.
Dressing up for evening? This taupe silk-satin option from Frame is such a good option.
2. The Trench Coat
Style Notes: Everyone, French or not, should own a trench coat. For those in-between weather days, we're all accustomed to here in the UK, it's an essential. And, as proven by Diane, they never fail to tie any outfit together.
Shop Trench Coats:
The perfect oversized coat with a belted waist.
The detailing makes this trench stand out from the rest.
The camel trench is a classic, but black really does go with everything.
3. The Flared Jeans
Style Notes: Although baggy 90s cuts are sticking around for spring/summer 2024, French girls are relying firmly on flares. The chic style can be incorporated into any outfit with minimal effort, but maximum impact.
Shop Flared Jeans:
Scared of the ultra-wide leg? Arket have created a soft flare that nods to the trend without swamping you.
For those ready to turn up the volume, it doesn't get better, or wider, than these.
Just add heels and you'll be surprised how long your legs look.
4. The Relazed Blazer
Style Notes: The Frankie Shop blazer is basically a wardrobe staple in its own right now. The relaxed-fit single-breasted iteration works with anything from a knit dress to jeans.
Shop Blazers:
It's got a cult following for a reason.
I can't quite believe how good this looks, and for that price.
This off-white shade is made for spring.
5. The Striped Knit
Style Notes: The Breton top may be a French cliché, but it's a classic the coolest women rely on. This time, it's all about the polo or half-zip Breton knit you'll wear on heavy rotation.
Shop Striped Knits:
A Breton is a wardrobe staple.
Arket is the first place I start when looking for stripe jumpers on the high street.
It might not be a classic Breton, but you'll want to wear this on repeat.
6. The Floral Top
Style Notes: Like the floral midi dress, the floral top has become a spring essential. Take inspiration like Rouje founder Jeanne Damas and keep it simple with a pair of black jeans.
Shop Floral Tops:
If you want to channel French girl chic, Rouje needs to be on your list.
It's all about the square neckline.
This pretty cotton number can easily be dressed both up or down.
7. The Waistcoat
Style Notes: As a suit, on its own or over a second-skin high neck top, the waistcoat is here to stay. And we will be embracing it with open arms for spring, and beyond.
Shop Waistcoats:
Imagine how good this will look with jeans, tailored trousers, maxi skirts...
There's matching trousers so you can wear the complete co-ord.
Jeans go with everything, and so will a denim waistcoat.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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