The rest of us can at least look like we’re in Saint-Tropez.
If you’re a fan of French style, you’re probably game to emulate a chic French woman year-round, but I tend to think that summer is the season that their style is the most covetable. During the warmer months of the year, Parisian women’s wardrobes tend to take on an effortless South of France feel, even when they’re in the city. Think breezy white tops, raffia accessories, and gingham dresses, to name a few classic essentials. But they also incorporate the latest trends into their summer wardrobes, with great success. This summer, I’m drawn to outfits that incorporate a little of both.
Lately, I’ve noticed some common themes among the styles French women are wearing now that summer is here, and all the items I’m about to point out will instantly give your outfits a French-girl aesthetic. So if that’s your goal, keep scrolling to start adding the eight easy, versatile items to your cart that’ll make your summer outfits “more French.”
Capri Pants
French women have fully embraced the most Brigitte Bardot 2025 trend of them all: capri pants. Pair them with kitten heels for the most June-in-Paris look.
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Open Edit Crepe Capri Leggings
Reformation Petra Linen Low Rise Pedal Pusher Pants
Good American Good Capri Jeans
Halter Dresses
Halter dresses are a longtime favorite of French women, whether they’re a trend or not. It just so happens that they are a trend this season, so win-win.
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Hill House Home Fleur Dress
Amanda Uprichard Valentini Dress
ZARA 100% Linen Halter Dress ZW Collection
Red Ballet Flats
Suddenly, everyone is wearing red ballet flats, including French women. They’re the perfect thing to pair with everything from jeans and a tee to a simple white or black dress.
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H&M Leather Ballet Flats
Staud Alba Ballet Flats
MARGAUX The Demi Flats
Pretty White Tops
Is there any shirt that’s more crucial to a French fashion person’s summer wardrobe than a pretty white top? I don’t think so. My advice is to stock up and wear them with everything from shorts to linen skirts to capri pants.
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Sézane Annabelle Blouse
J.Crew Lace-Trim Squareneck Tank Top in Linen
DÔEN Francia Top in Salt
Polka Dots
Another French-girl classic that’s also a current trend is polka dots. The playful print—especially in the form of dresses or skirts—is the key to giving your outfit an instant French feel.
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Lulus Julia Polka Dot Slipdress
Aritzia Wilfred Twirl Pleated Skirt
City Chic Collins Maxi Sundress
Block-Heel Mary Janes
Mary Janes with a block heel are something French women wear year-round. In the summer, it’s typically with skirts and dresses (bonus points if it’s a gingham dress).
Shop Block-Heel Mary Janes
Prada Ruched Mary Jane Slingback Pumps
MANGO Mary Jane Pumps
Sezane Elodie Mary Janes
White Skirts
Last year was defined by white midi skirts, in terms of outfits at least. But French women have long been aware of the power of a white skirt (of any length). Wearing one casually with flats during the day is the ultimate Parisian look.
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Reformation Layla Linen Skirt
Madewell Sophia Skirt
Posse Alice Linen Mini Skirt
Raffia Totes
Take a peek in any French girl’s closet, and I’m sure you’ll find more than one raffia bag. A tote, in particular, is the perfect thing for trekking around Paris on a long summer day.
Shop Raffia Totes
J.Crew Large Handknotted Packable Tote Bag
The Row Emilie Woven Raffia Tote Bag
ZARA Woven Tote Bag