We talk a lot about French style. But it’s understandable when French women appear to dress so well. With Instagram, we’ve been able to see easily the kinds of outfits that these women go back to over and over. So why wouldn’t we take a moment to do a deep dive into the timeless French outfits we always spot? Think of this as your ultimate guide to French dressing and the outfits French women love.
Below, I’ve found 10 classic ensembles that I always spot. Whether it’s a trench coat styled with classic slingbacks or a pair of jeans, a white tee and a blazer, there are just some outfits that French women will never stop wearing. Keep scrolling for the looks that will take you through the autumn season and beyond.
1. Trench Coat + Slingbacks
Style Notes: Autumn is on it's way, but with the unpredictable European weather, Parisians are bona fide experts in layering. Keep it classic with a neutral trench coat and a pair of slingbacks.
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Trench coats are about as classically French as it gets.
A white tee is the ultimate classic.
We're seeing so many chic maxi skirts out there right now, but this & Other Stories style might just be our favourite.
This simple yet statement belt will elevate any outfit.
The perfect black shoulder bag.
A classic black slingback will never go out of style.
2. Cropped Cardigan + Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: One of my personal favourites, this outfit looks best when the cardigan skims the top of your trousers. Très chic.
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The perfect crop to pair with high-waisted trousers.
This whole look feels so French.
A classic black bag will serve you well for years to come.
3. Breton + Skirt
Style Notes: The Breton is of course a French classic. It might seem a little cliché, but the striped top never fails to look jolie. For autumn, opt for a jumper iteration and add a jeans for the full French look.
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This smock neck stripe jumper is a French autumn staple.
I love to opt for navy or dark denim tones when black just feels a bit too heavy.
The ultimate autumn bag.
4. Double Denim
Style Notes: A perhaps surprising contender, double denim is absolutely a timeless French outfit. Look to styles in similar washes to ensure it's as cool as possible.
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This is a great example of how minimal details can make a piece more polished.
A perfectly matched pair.
This pop of colour will offset the deep denim.
White shoes make every outfit more fashion-forward.
5. Leather Jacket + Straight Jeans + Boots
Style Notes: A leather jacket paired with straight jeans and ankle boots is a French-girl staple. The jacket adds effortless edge, while straight-leg jeans offer a laid-back balance. Ankle boots complete the look, blending casual cool with timeless polish—perfect for day-to-night transitions.
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This is so autumn coded.
A white shirt and jeans combo is a must.
These boots also come in suede and croc-effect leather.
6. Slip Dress + Heeled Mules
Style Notes: You don't need much to make a slip dress look great. Just add mules and a cute bag. In the autumn evenings, layer a chunky cardigan or blazer on top.
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A piece you'll have forever.
This classic staple will go with everything in your wardrobe.
Instantly elevate any look with a shoulder bag.
7. Blazer + White Tee + Jeans
Style Notes: The ultimate everyday French outfit has to be a plain white T-shirt under a blazer with jeans.
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I'll take the entire outfit.
This is the only white tee you'll need.
This fit looks ultra flattering.
8. White Blouse + Blue Jeans
Style Notes: Ever since Jane Birkin wore her iteration of this look, we've been hooked and have seen practically every French influencer wearing this outfit.
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So romantic.
These versatile flared jeans can be dressed up or down this autumn.
Prepare to live in these boots all year-round.
9. Button-Up Shirt + Jorts + Woven Tote
Style Notes: When the weather gets warm, French women immediately turn to this timeless combo: A classic button-up and denim shorts. For an even more elegant take on this outfit, they opt for denim shorts in longer lengths and lighter colours such as white, cream or ecru.
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Such an elegant colour.
A sleek belt will polish up any outfit.
So easy to dress up or down.
This looks way more expensive than it is.
10. Oversized Jumper + White jeans
Style Notes: An oversized jumper with white jeans is a quintessential French-girl combo. The relaxed fit of the jumper exudes effortless chic, while the crisp white jeans keep the look fresh and polished—a perfect mix of cosy and sophisticated.
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It does not get any more luxurious than The Row.
I love the long length of these jeans—they'll look so great over some heeled boots.
These Mary Jane flats worn with some grey ribbed socks is a cold weather combo.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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