French Style Fashion Essentials – Spring/Summer Version!

We’ve always been smitten with French style when it comes to fashion. That effortless attitude that is casual yet oh-so-chic. And today, we’re sharing the essentials you need to achieve that quintessential French style for spring and summer!

As I’m sure you know by now, I’m a bit of a Francophile 😉

I love French interiors, and I consider my home to be at least somewhat French-inspired. But along with French decor and design, I also love French fashion style! And when I say French style, I don’t mean Fashion Week in Paris or Chanel handbags, though those are fun, too. No, I’m talking the chic, everyday style of fashionable French women.

Americans have been mesmerized by the style of French women for decades. They have a certain confidence and nonchalance that just screams chic. They’re often in casual clothing, yet they seem effortlessly cool. And they never seem like they’re trying too hard.

Simplicity is key. Minimal make-up and accessories and a “less is more” mantra are the norm.

The irony is, it doesn’t take a lot of money to dress like a French woman. In fact, quite the opposite. They are almost always un-done, dressed down, and their style is definitely on the casual side of chic. And I love that!

Here’s to the quintessential French girl and her je ne sais quois!

THIS POST MAY INCLUDE AFFILIATE LINKS. CLICK HERE FOR MY FULL DISCLOSURE POLICY.

Great White Shirt

All French women seem to have a basic, borrowed-from-the-mens-department white shirt. Here you can go with a button down, or something slightly more feminine, but you definitely want it to be timeless.

It’s great to have a white cotton one for casual days, and a silk one for when you want a little more oomph. But if you’re only going to buy one, then I would say an all-cotton one is the way to go. My personal favorites are the white shirts from J. Crew (here and here). They are well-priced and always look good, but I’ve also sourced other options below.

Leila Yavari via French Vogue.

Flattering Narrow Jeans

This is the one spot I would suggest spending a bit more. If you don’t have a basic pair of super flattering jeans you love to throw on, get yourself some stat! Because when it comes to the ‘per wear price’, there’s hardly anything you’ll get more wear out of than these.

A medium wash, straight jean is the French girl favorite. You can do slim or straight, but I wouldn’t do anything too trendy (like flares or heavy distressing) for this. Again, you want timeless. And flattering!

Via @pepamack.

Via Marie France magazine.

Ballet Flats

French women do not run around on their cobblestone streets in heels. Flats are a French style favorite, and they are for me, too. I practically live in my flats!

They are more chic than a sneaker, yet nearly as comfortable. And they go with everything!

Via Ines de la Fressange.

Striped Tee

If you think wearing striped tees in Paris is cliché, you thought wrong! French women love a good striped tee (or sweater). They don’t tend to wear a lot of prints in general, but stripes are an exception to the rule.

My recent favorite is the perfect example!

Caroline de Maigret via Bloglovin’.

Oversized Sunglasses

I’m pretty sure the French invented this look! Oversized sunnies connote mystery, something French women love to exude. And, they protect your eyes from sun damage, reducing signs of aging, so it’s a win-win, right?

Via Maria Bernard’s Instagram.

Straw Handbag

Whether it’s a straw market bag for collecting fruit at the farmer’s market, or a cute little basket handbag, there is nothing more summery than a straw bag for summer, no matter where you live.

Via Adenorah.

Via Lucy Williams Instagram.

Summer Dress

A simple summer dress is such an easy, breezy way to get ready on a hot summer day. I don’t wear dresses a lot in general, but I love them in summer!

First of all, they are much cooler (hello breeze!) which is perfect when you don’t feel like wearing much of anything at all. And in the right style, they can be universally flattering.

Jeanne Damas via The Man Repeller.

White Sneakers 

There was a day when the French weren’t big on athletic shoes, but that’s no longer the case. Simple white sneakers are a spring and summer staple, worn by both men and women. As with most aspects of French style, the simpler the better, so no big logos or branding.

And a classic sneaker in canvas or leather can be worn with everything from jeans to dresses and is a definite summer staple (this pair is a favorite of mine but I’ve sourced other great options below).

Via Sézane.

Espadrilles

The absolute, quintessential French summer fashion item! Espadrilles are timeless, and French women bring them back out every spring and summer. When I was in Provence last year, I saw them literally everywhere –  on men and women!

Plus, the cotton canvas makes them a cool and comfortable warm weather footwear choice.

Via Style Lovely.

Simplicity is definitely best when it comes to French style. And in the summer time, that seems even more appropriate. Throw on a cute striped tee, flattering jeans and stylish flats, or just a simple summer dress, and you can dress with a maximum of style with a minimum of effort.  

To shop the French style finds below, simply click and scroll!

Shop French Style 

je t’aime,

Sheila
xo

If you enjoyed this post, be sure to check out more French inspiration below!

French Fashion Essentials – Fall & Winter

How to Find French Farmhouse Antiques for Less!

50+ French Farmhouse Finds at Amazon