I’m currently in the back of a New York taxicab stuck in traffic and daydreaming about the French girl aesthetic. I sit wondering if I’ll ever achieve that effortlessly cool, timeless look that my go-to France-based style inspirations pull off so naturally. I’m always in awe of their easy, thrown-together ensembles that feel polished but never too serious.
French women have this unique ability to style contrasting textures, patterns, and silhouettes—combos some might consider fashion don’ts. On them, however, these looks never fail. They’re so in tune with the zeitgeist of trends that I genuinely wonder if they have some kind of direct line to the fashion gods. Cheeky polka dots, retro-styled capris, the forever divisive jelly sandals… You name it. They’ve got their pulse on what’s in.
In honor of my existential morning commute, here are seven Parisian-chic looks I’m officially committing to re-creating this summer, even if my cab driver is the only one who sees them.
Polka-Dot Capris + Polo
Polka dots and capris are trending, so why not wear them both? Red ballet flats add a pop of color, and a loose polo keeps it casual.
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Paloma Wool
Aneu Leggings
J.Crew
Featherweight Cashmere Short-Sleeve Sweater-Polo
It’s cashmere, so of course, it’s chic.
Vagabond Shoemakers
Jolin Ballet Flat
My closet is mainly ballet flats.
ZARA
Suede Studded Shoulder Bag
I’ve been seeing studded bags everywhere.
Slip Skirt + Flip-Flops
This take on an all-black look has finally convinced me to wear flip-flops on the streets on NYC. I know what I’m wearing tomorrow.
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J.Crew
Gwen Lace-Trim Slip Skirt in Textured Satin
Reformation
Jessie Thong Sandal
Thong or flip-flop sandals? Thong sandals are kind of growing on me.
J.Crew
Cap-Sleeve Lace-Trim Top in Cotton Voile
I love the lace trim. It’s so chic.
8 Other Reasons
Emily Shoulder Bag
Perfect size for all your necessities.
Capris + Jelly Sandals
Capris are a true French girl staple, and whether you’re team jelly sandals or not, this ‘fit is polished and playful.
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Open Edit
Crepe Capri Leggings
In every French woman’s closet.
Vince
Barcelona Jelly Cage Mule
Open Edit
Twist One-Shoulder Top
This one-shoulder top gives cool girl.
Butter Yellow + Cheetah Print
Who would’ve thought to pair the color of the summer, butter yellow, and leopard print? It totally works.
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Alohas
Nusa Yellowish Skirt
You could style this in so many ways.
J.Crew
Vintage Jersey Scoopneck Tank
Reformation
Small Vittoria Tote
Jeffrey Campbell
Fathom Flat
MANGO
Classic Trench Coat With Belt
For those rainy summer days.
Classic White Top + Blue Jeans
The French woman’s uniform: a crisp white tank, light-wash jeans, and romantic kitten heels.
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Steve Madden
Cary Heeled Sandal
Flirty height and effortless charm.
J.Crew
Feather Jersey Slim-Fit Tank Top
Levi’s
501 ’90s Straight Leg Ankle Jeans
I love the relaxed fit on these.
Madewell
Handwoven Leather Tote
Luxe look for everyday use.
Le Specs
Work It! Sunnies
Monochrome Maxi Skirt + Tank Top
A monochrome outfit always looks put-together, especially in chocolate brown. Not to mention, it’s easy to style.
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MANGO
Wool-Blend Skirt With Puffed Hem
The right amount of volume in a skirt.
JW PEI
Hana Mini Faux Suede Tote
Suede touch and a structured look.
MANGO
Low-Neck Lyocell Top
ZARA
Pack of Rigid Bracelets
Stackable accessories that add charm to any look.
MANGO
Pointed Kitten-Heel Shoes
Gray Dress + Brown Heels
A basic midi dress to throw on and go. Just add a statement necklace for that effortlessly chic vibe.
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LILLUSORY
Bodycon Maxi Dresses
Monica Vinader
Sterling Silver Aria Cord Necklace
Steve Madden
Mollie Block Heel Pump
Freja
Caroline Faux Leather Shoulder Bag
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