Ten tips to get French Chic
Whether you’re strolling through the streets of Paris or navigating your daily routine, here are ten tips to help you effortlessly achieve that coveted French Chic look.
1 Don’t try too hard (or at least don’t look as though you tried too hard).
French style always looks effortless, but that doesn’t mean that there hasn’t been any effort involved. The effort is made up front in acquiring a signature style and in having the perfectly curated wardrobe.
French women know how to use classics to their advantage and never underestimate the importance of the perfect cut and fabric. But, the key to French Style is to be “perfectly imperfect”. The look is just that little bit ‘imperfect’, for example a jacket draped casually over the shoulders, the shirt cuffs rolled up and if it’s tucked in, it’s just a bit untucked too!
They are also discerning shoppers and the effort is made up front by creating the perfect wardrobe, so getting dressed each morning is effortless.
2 Be Selective with trends.
French women don’t slavishly follow the latest trend but stick to predominantly basic pieces. While French women are aware of trends, they don’t follow them blindly. Instead, they incorporate trends selectively into their wardrobe, always staying true to their personal style. Before buying into a trend, ask yourself if it complements your existing wardrobe and if it’s something you’ll still love in a few years.
Only adopt a new trend if it works for you and carefully review the season’s trends and select one or two items to update your look, giving your classic basics a makeover/ new twist.
French women are known for their love of timeless, classic pieces. Items like a little black dress, a Breton striped shirt, a trench coat, and a pair of ballet flats are essential in your wardrobe. These pieces never go out of style and can be worn in various ways for different occasions.
In general, aim for about 80% classics and 20% trends. When your wardrobe is comprised predominantly of timeless classics, getting dressed each day is “effortless”
3 Invest in timeless basics and create a capsule wardrobe
Wardrobe essentials should be timeless, versatile and “authentically you”.
French Chic is all about quality over quantity. Invest in a few well-made, versatile pieces that you can mix and match. Stick to a neutral color palette—think black, white, navy, beige, and gray. This minimalist approach allows you to focus on the details and makes getting dressed in the morning a breeze.
Having a good range of basic classics enables you to create numerous outfit possibilities.
4 Dress for your body shape and Prioritize Fit
Contrary to the “myth”, French women do NOT all have the perfect body, but they do have “body awareness”. They know what their shape is, they know what suits them and they know where to find it.
They wear clothes that flatter their bodies, regardless of trends! They also pay careful attention to the way clothes fit, and they will have their clothes altered if they don’t fit correctly rather than just going with it !
Clothes should not be too tight or too loose but should fit your body just right. Tailoring is key—don’t hesitate to have your clothes altered for that perfect fit. A well-fitted blazer, a pair of tailored trousers, or a classic trench coat can elevate your look instantly.
5 Adopt the French approach to color
In the same way that the majority of their wardrobe is made up of classic silhouettes, French women also wear predominantly neutral colours. Having lots of basics in neutral colours in your wardrobe makes getting dressed each day so much easier, as you you will always be able to coordinate pieces.
All you need to do then is to add your own “twist”/ pop of colour, such as a print, a statement bag, shoes, a scarf, jewellery, lipstick or a statement jacket to make the look “your own”.
6 Get to know your signature style
Despite the fact they have a wardrobe full of basics in neutral colours, each French Woman wants to express her singularity (uniqueness).
They have a knack for developing a signature style that’s uniquely their own. This might be a particular color, accessory, or piece of clothing that you’re known for. Find what makes you feel most confident and comfortable, and stick with it. Over time, this will become your personal brand of chic.
The difference lies in the details and a French woman loves unearthing a “statement” vintage piece or she will have her unique lip colour/ signature scent, and sometimes, the only difference is the way she wears a piece.
7 Have a little fun with fashion
When you know your body shape, the colors that suit you and your signature style, it’s time to get creative and have a little fun with fashion.
A couple of easy ways to sprinkle a little fun into your style “à la française” is to try mixing fabrics (different weights/ different textures) and mixing prints.
Layering is a key element of French style. Learn how to mix different textures and layers to add depth to your outfit. A cashmere sweater over a silk blouse, a trench coat over a striped shirt, or a scarf draped casually over your shoulders can transform a simple look into something chic.
8 Learn to use accessories wisely
Accessories are kept simple yet impactful. Invest in a few high-quality pieces, like a leather handbag, a silk scarf, or a pair of statement earrings. Choose accessories that complement your outfit without overpowering it.
A French woman never underestimates the importance of the “perfect finishing touch” to her look, but she also knows that “less is more”, and follows the advice of Coco Channel.
‘Before leaving the house, a lady should stop, look in the mirror, and remove one piece of jewellery’ Coco Chanel
9 Grooming should also be “perfectly imperfect”
A French woman will never have chipped nails, unwashed hair or wrinkled clothes but the principles of “effortless” and “simplicity” also apply to grooming.
Just like with accessories, “Less is more” when applied to make-up too and it’s about highlighting just one feature on your face, such as a gorgeous red lip, or a smokey eye, but never both!
French women are famous for their natural makeup look. A bit of concealer, a touch of blush, and a swipe of mascara are usually enough.
Keep your hairstyle simple and natural. Opt for tousled waves, a chic bun, or a simple ponytail. Avoid over-styling or using too many products—again less is more!
10 And don’t forget to be a bit rebellious and break the rules
There’s a reason French women are known as “belles et rebelles“, because they know that rules are made to be broken! But, it’s a lot easier to break the rules when you know what they are!
Finally, Confidence is Key. French Chic is not just about what you wear; it’s about how you wear it. Even the most elegant outfit can fall flat if you don’t carry yourself with confidence. When you believe in yourself and feel comfortable in your own skin, it shows. Your posture, walk, and even the way you interact with others reflect that self-assurance, making your outfit more powerful and stylish.
Confidence also means embracing imperfections. French women don’t strive for perfection; they appreciate the beauty in flaws, whether it’s a slightly tousled hairstyle or a smudge of mascara. This acceptance of imperfection is what makes French Chic so accessible and real. When you’re confident, you’re comfortable with your imperfections and don’t feel the need to hide them.
Final Thoughts on Ten Tips to Get French Chic
Achieving French Chic is about more than just the clothes you wear; it’s about embodying a certain attitude. It’s the confidence, the attention to detail, and the effortless elegance that make this style so timeless.
