French Style
Jul 12, 2022

I've Analysed It, and This Is the French-Girl Summer Uniform

by Elinor Block

Before you read anything, I think you need to know that what we imagine to be French summer style is a bit of a cliché, and you know what? I'm okay with that. There is a lot that I love about French fashion. It's elegant, classic, and a little bit sassy, but it's not known for being experimental. And who says that you need to be completely out there when it comes to your summer wardrobe? (If it ain't broke, and all that.) When it comes to dressing for the warmer months, I always see the same key pieces cropping up on Parisian women. I've analysed the style of several of my favourite French influencers and worked out that there are nine items that are pretty much guaranteed to make an appearance during the warmer months.

From the perfect white T-shirt to a slinky slip dress, there are plenty of items that you probably already own. Nothing here is complicated. While I can't guarantee sunshine every time you wear these items, I can guarantee you might feel a little more French. So go forth, and take a look at the following items to plan your summer wardrobe accordingly!

french summer style: a summer dress

Photo:

@hannalhoumeau

Style Notes: Yes, this is an obvious one, but a summer dress is essential to nailing your French look. Ideally, this needs to be cut with décolletage in mind but can come in any length and tends to be more on the fitted side.

Kitri Aisha Shirred Blue Gingham Maxi Dress

Aisha Shirred Blue Gingham Maxi Dress

Order this beauty now, and wear all summer.

french summer style: a cropped cardigan

Photo:

@tamaramory

Style Notes: The cropped cardi is a year-round kind of item for our Gallic friends, but it really comes into its own in the summer. It's your coat replacement when the weather is a little chilly, and it looks great slung over a slip dress or just with blue jeans.

Reformation Gilda Ribbed V-Neck Cardigan

Gilda Ribbed V-Neck Cardigan

This one will go with literally any outfit.

1784 Carmella Cardigan

Carmella Cardigan

French brand Rouje of course has the best cardis.

french summer style: basket bag

Photo:

@frannfyne

Style Notes: Whatever happens, French women will never let go of their basket bags. Get one, and use it forever.

Loewe Medium Raffia Basket Bag

Medium Raffia Basket Bag

This cult style is a modern classic.

french summer style: summer shoes

Photo:

@leiasfez

Style Notes: It wouldn't be right for me to nail down a particular shoe style that French women wear in the summer, but know this: I've seen a few wearing clogs this season. However, I also know that espadrilles and classic black sandals remain ever popular. Take your pick.

Castañer + Charo Ruiz Cini 100 Broderie Anglaise Cotton and Canvas Wedge Espadrilles

+ Charo Ruiz Cini 100 Broderie Anglaise Cotton and Canvas Wedge Espadrilles

Castañer is the destination for espadrilles, and I love this new-season style.

M&S Collection Leather Flatform Flip Flops

Leather Flatform Flip Flops

These have been popular for a couple of years now.

french summer style: the "naked" top

Photo:

@claire_most

Style Notes: No other nation does subtle sassiness like the French. The "naked" top is a case in point. Whether it's an open-back shirt or a top that laces up at the front, there are myriad ways to wear this kind of look.

Faithfull the Brand

Idrissy Tie-Front Linen Top

You'll have to be quick to get this one in the sale.

french summer style: a slip dress

Photo:

@sabinasocol

Style Notes: This underwear-as-outerwear trend has been going for several years now, and it looks like it won't be slowing down soon. Make like the French and pair it with your cropped cardi.

Arket Bias-Cut Slip Dress

Bias-Cut Slip Dress

One for the minimalists.

Reformation Dover Dress

You could definitely wear this to a wedding.

french summer style: a basic tank

Photo:

@basicstouch

Style Notes: The French know the power of a great basic, and a great-fitting vest top is just one item they love. Whether it's beige, black or white, it will work with everything in your wardrobe.

COS Heavyweight Cotton Tank Top

Heavyweight Cotton Tank Top

These always sell out so quickly.

Ribbed Vest Top

Ribbed Vest Top

It comes in so many colours.

Vince Ribbed-Knit Tank

Ribbed-Knit Tank

Knit versions will work all year round.

french summer style: a perfect white tee

Photo:

@slipintostyle

Style Notes: Another basic, but it will last you so long. Take a tip from Ellie Delphine of Slip Into Style, and wear it with a bold skirt.

Arket Heavy-Weight T-Shirt

Heavy-Weight T-Shirt

A fashion-insider favourite.

Cos Regular Fit T-Shirt

Regular Fit T-Shirt

It's worth checking out the men's section, too.

french summer style: a pair of classic sunnies

Photo:

@annelauremais

Style Notes: The pièce de résistance has to be a really great pair of sunglasses. Not too over-the-top or trend-led but still super cool. To be worn at all times.

Whistles Isle of Eden Felina Sunglasses

Isle of Eden Felina Sunglasses

Isle of Eden is the new sunglasses brand at Whistles, and it has the coolest shapes.