You don't have to be a math genius to figure out how French women have perfected the outfit formula. When the goal is effortlessly chic, a wardrobe of staple basics can be mixed and matched to achieve a look polished enough for any event but easy enough for every day.
Case in point? Michelle Williams. The Montana native and noted fashion aesthete was spotted wearing our favorite outfit combination of straight-leg jeans, an oversize blazer, and Mary-Jane flats in New York City. The four-piece look, complete with a strawberry-red lip, was polished enough for Williams's morning TV appearance and perfectly practical for running around the city now that it's officially springtime. Even better, you don't need a Hollywood stylist to re-create this outfit at home. Just grab your favorite blazer, jeans, flats, and button-down shirt. Roll up your sleeves, swipe on a bright lip, and you're good to go. Easy enough, right? Oui!
Don't have these basic outfit building blocks in your wardrobe? You're in luck. We've pulled several pieces that can be combined to create the perfect jeans-and-flats outfit formula for anyone who wants to take French style for a spin—no passport necessary.
On Michelle Williams: The Row shoes
Simple and chic, just like everything else The Row designs.
Shop Our Favorite Mary Janes
If The Row is out of reach, consider these Sam Edelman Mary Janes.
These are bound to sell quickly.
I love the contrasting trim.
Ooh la la, this patent finish!
G.H. Bass shoes are incredibly comfortable and worth the price.
Zara has never let me down.
Re-Create the Full Outfit
A subtle pattern makes this affordable blazer look super luxe.
If you're new to double-breasted blazers, start with a style from H&M for a more casual fit.
Check out those tortoiseshell buttons!
A simple striped shirt is essential for any wardrobe.
Stripes can be playful, too.
The oversize look is in, but fitted styles work for this formula, too.
A pair of dark-wash jeans are foolproof.
Remember: Wash cold to maintain the perfect a mount of stretch.
Next: Kate Middleton's Skinnies-and-Flats Outfit Is the Epitome of Quiet Luxury