It's no secret that French women possess a knack for a polished style that reads as effortless and cool. Over the years, they prove to really refine their personal senses of style with wardrobes stocked with incredible closet essentials. French women are truly in the know about which building blocks will last for years ahead, so it's no surprise you'll spot many of them wearing the same staples.
Yep, you'll be sure to see elegant tweed pieces on both Carla Bruni and Anne Hidalgo. The same goes for ankle boots, which you'll notice Isabelle Adjani and Juliette Binoche styling with their looks. And it doesn't stop there. Ahead, take inspiration from stylish over-50 French women and see the six pieces you'll spot in all of their closets. You can also shop the items for yourself to replicate their chic looks.
2025 Wardrobe Staples Stylish Over-50 French Women Own
1. TRENCH COATS
Style Notes: No matter what season it is, trench coats are an easy staple to make any outfit looks polished. Whether layered over a sweater, trousers and boots in the winter or Bermuda shorts and a tee in the summer, this French girl–approved piece is a true classic.
Isabelle Huppert in a trench coat and heels.
Carine Roitfeld in a trench coat with leggings.
Shop Trench Coats:
You can't get more timeless than a classic beige trench coat.
John Lewis ' coats are the best they've ever been at the moment.
This is one of the chicest trenches out there right now.
2. ANKLE BOOTS
Style Notes: A great pair of ankle boots is an investment that is definitely worth the cost per wear. You can pair them with a dressy suit for a red carpet-worthy look or style them with jeans for a more casual look.
Isabelle Adjani in black ankle boots.
Juliette Binoche in chocolate brown ankle boots and flared jeans.
Shop Ankle Boots:
I can vouch that this is a heel height you can easily walk all day in.
A sleek alternative to black.
A signature Paris Texas pair.
3. TWEED
Style Notes: Tweed is the luxe fabric that instantly makes me think of stylish French women. To avoid making it look too stiff, try pairing a jacket with leggings or leather pants for an outfit that is equal parts sophisticated and cool.
Carla Bruni in a tweed jacket and skinny jeans.
Anne Hidalgo in a tweed overcoat.
Shop Tweed:
A monochrome combo is really versatile.
Wear with tights and a pair of knee-high boots.
If you thought this was designer, I wouldn't blame you.
4. HIGH-WAISTED TROUSERS
Style Notes: If you're looking to make your wardrobe feel more polished, you can't go wrong with a great pair of high-waisted trousers. Whether styled with a button-down top or a leather jacket, the tailored basic reads as instantly polished.
France Zobda in wide-leg high-waisted trousers.
Anh Duong in sequin high-waisted trousers.
Shop High-Waisted Trousers:
The gold buttons add a premium touch.
These 'Perfect' pants are made from a four-way stretch-pointe fabric, which means they hold you in, in all the right places. Wear with a cream knit and trainers for a cool yet chic look.
A chic alternative to classic black.
5. TAILORED BLAZERS
Style Notes: A tailored blazer might be one of the most versatile pieces you can add to your wardrobe. For a piece that feels inspired by French women, look for a slightly oversize fit with sharp tailoring.
Ines de la Fressange in a navy blazer with white denim.
Virginie Mozat in a black suit.
Shop Tailored Blazers:
All our editors agree: Arket's blazer is one of the best.
A leather version feels so fresh right now.
Made from a stretchy wool fabric, this blazer is both warm and comfy.
6. SLEEK PUMPS
Style Notes: The ultimate simple heels that go with anything? Sleek pumps. The versatile staple is one that withstands trends, so it's easy to see why you'll find it in every French woman's wardrobe.
Emmanuelle Alt in black pumps, wide-leg trousers and a leather jacket.
Catherine Deneuve in black pumps and a leopard coat.
Shop Sleek Pumps:
The unique heel adds to the elegance of this pair.
Cream pumps are a true wardrobe staple.
A shoe style you'll wear for the rest of your life.
This piece originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S. and has since been updated.
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