French women are renowned worldwide for their effortlessly chic and timeless style, a fashion sensibility that becomes even more refined as they age. So you may be wondering, what is French-style clothing?

If you're a woman over 50 looking to infuse your wardrobe with a bit of Parisian chic, this guide will help you navigate the classic French style with grace and confidence. I’ve also included many links to French brand products in this post!

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What is classic French-style clothing?

French fashion style is all about simplicity, elegance, and comfort. Here are some classic French-style clothing items:

Trench Coats: Classic French wardrobe essential that adds sophistication to any outfit.
Tailored Pants: Versatile pants that strike a balance between looking polished and feeling relaxed.
Ballet Flats: Stylish and practical shoes that go well with almost anything.
Breton Striped Tees: Simple, visually appealing, and playful, making it a staple in the French wardrobe.

Related Post: French Style vs. American Style

What does a typical French woman wear?

The typical French woman's wardrobe is built around quality over quantity. It's not about having an excessive number of items but rather a few well-chosen pieces that are versatile and timeless. Key elements include:

The French approach to fashion is less about following fleeting trends and more about building a personal style that is both timeless and effortlessly chic. Let's explore these key elements further.

Tailored Blazers

The tailored blazer is a cornerstone of the French woman's wardrobe, embodying versatility and sophistication. It's the perfect example of how the French style merges masculine and feminine elements to create a look that is polished yet understated.

A well-fitted blazer can transform a basic outfit into something special, whether it's paired with denim for a casual day out or draped over a dress for an evening event. The key to the French blazer is its fit—it should contour the body gracefully, highlighting the waist without being restrictive, creating a silhouette that is both flattering and powerful.

French brand blazers to check out:

Neutral Tones

French women have mastered the art of utilizing neutral tones to create a cohesive and elegant wardrobe. Blacks, whites, greys, and navy form the backbone of their clothing palette, allowing for endless combinations that look effortlessly put together. These colors not only exude sophistication but also provide a practical benefit—they make it easier to mix and match pieces, extending the versatility of a wardrobe without needing to constantly add new items.

This disciplined color scheme is not about restriction but rather about creating a foundation from which personal style can flourish, with each piece serving multiple purposes and complementing each other beautifully.

Silk Scarves

The silk scarf is perhaps one of the most iconic accessories in the French woman's fashion arsenal. More than just a piece of fabric, the silk scarf represents a blend of luxury and practicality, adding a layer of sophistication to any outfit. French women skillfully use silk scarves to introduce color, pattern, and texture into their ensembles, often in a way that looks both effortless and intentional.

Whether tied around the neck, knotted on a bag, or worn as a headband, the silk scarf is a versatile accessory that can transform the simplest outfit into something chic and distinctive. It's a testament to the French woman's ability to use accessories not just as add-ons but as integral elements of an outfit, enhancing the overall look without overpowering it.

Ballet Flats

Ballet flats are a staple in the French wardrobe, embodying the perfect blend of comfort and style. These shoes are a testament to the French woman's ability to navigate the balance between looking polished and being practical.

Ballet flats can be worn with everything from jeans and tailored pants to skirts and dresses, making them an indispensable part of the French woman's wardrobe. Their simplicity and elegance align with the minimalist aesthetic that the French style is known for.

French brand ballet flats to check out:

Striped Shirts

The striped shirt, particularly the Breton stripe, has become synonymous with French fashion. Originally worn by sailors in the navy of Brittany, the striped shirt has transcended its humble beginnings to become a symbol of timeless style.

It's a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, exuding a sense of casual sophistication that is central to French fashion. Whether paired with denim for a casual look or tucked into a high-waisted skirt for a more polished ensemble, the striped shirt is a testament to the French knack for turning simple pieces into fashion statements.

Classic Jeans

While jeans are a universal wardrobe staple, French women tend to favor classic, well-fitting cuts—such as straight-leg or slightly tapered styles—that offer a nod to timeless elegance over passing trends. The preference is often for a high-rise fit that elongates the legs and flatters the waist, styled in a way that's both understated and chic.

Paired with a crisp white shirt, a blazer, or a lightweight sweater, jeans form a core part of the French woman's wardrobe, proving that casual wear can be elevated with the right pieces and styling.

Lightweight Sweaters

French women are known for their layering skills, and lightweight sweaters play a crucial role in this. Cashmere or fine wool sweaters in neutral or muted tones are favored for their ability to add warmth without bulk, seamlessly fitting into a range of outfits. These sweaters can be worn over collared shirts for a preppy look, draped over the shoulders for a touch of casual elegance, or simply on their own for understated sophistication.

Trench Coats

The trench coat is another cornerstone of French outerwear, prized for its functionality and timeless design. It serves as the perfect transitional piece for unpredictable weather, offering both style and practicality. The classic trench, typically in beige or navy, is often styled with the belt tied rather than buckled, lending an air of relaxed elegance that is quintessentially French.

Leather Handbags

When it comes to accessories, French women prefer quality over quantity, and this is especially true for handbags. A well-crafted leather handbag in a classic design is a must-have, serving as a functional yet stylish accessory that complements any outfit. Whether opting for a tote, a crossbody, or a chic clutch, the emphasis is on timeless appeal and craftsmanship.

How to dress like a French woman over 50?

As you age, the French philosophy of "less is more" becomes even more pertinent. Here’s how to embrace this ethos:

Opt for Quality Fabrics: Choose natural fibers like cotton, wool, silk, and linen.
Embrace Understated Elegance: Go for well-fitting clothing that flatters your shape, not too tight nor too loose.
Classic Over Trendy: Timeless pieces like a well-cut trench coat, a little black dress, or a cashmere sweater are essentials.

What is effortless French girl style?

Effortless style means looking put together without appearing to try too hard. To achieve this:

Balance is Key: Pair relaxed pieces with more structured items.
Stick to a Neutral Palette: It makes mixing and matching easier and always looks chic.
Invest in Good Shoes: Comfortable yet stylish flats like loafers or ballet pumps are a must.

How to wear jeans like a French girl?

Jeans are a staple in the French wardrobe, but the key is in how they are styled:

Opt for a Straight or Slim Cut: Avoid overly trendy cuts. Think timeless.
Pair with Classic Tops: A crisp white shirt or a cashmere sweater works perfectly.
Accessorize Wisely: A statement belt or a chic scarf can elevate your look.

How to dress like a French woman on a budget?

You don’t have to break the bank to achieve French style:

Invest in Basics: Spend more on a few high-quality pieces that will last.
Thrift Shops and Vintage Stores: These can be goldmines for classic French pieces.
Classic Accessories: A well-chosen bag or pair of sunglasses can elevate any outfit.

What is Parisian chic style?

Parisian chic is about looking effortlessly elegant. It's about:

Uncomplicated Silhouettes: Clean lines and simple designs.
A Neutral Color Palette: It's all about black, white, navy, beige, and grey.
The Right Fit: Clothes should skim your body, neither too tight nor too baggy.

What are French beauty standards?

Let's dig into what makes French beauty standards so special - they're all about keeping it natural and effortless. The French philosophy of beauty is all about embracing simplicity and authenticity, which is why they value a subtle look that accentuates your natural features.

Minimal Makeup

In France, they believe that less is more when it comes to makeup. The idea is to subtly enhance your natural features instead of covering them up. The focus is on achieving a fresh, clean look. A typical French makeup routine involves using a light foundation or tinted moisturizer, a swipe of mascara to open up the eyes, and a touch of blush for a healthy glow. They usually keep their lips natural with tinted balms or subtle lipstick that matches their natural lip color. The goal is to look effortlessly polished, never overdone. This approach emphasizes natural beauty and aligns with a lifestyle that values ease and efficiency.

Skincare Over Cosmetics

In France, good skin is seen as the basis of beauty - not makeup. So, French women focus on keeping their skin healthy and glowing through a gentle and effective skincare routine. They love using high-quality skincare products that have nourishing ingredients. Their daily routine usually includes cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and using serums or treatments for their specific skin needs. Plus, they know that sunscreen is a must-have to protect their skin from the sun's harmful rays.

Effortless Hair

When it comes to hair, French beauty standards are all about embracing natural texture and easygoing styles. The look is often described as "undone," which means loose waves, natural curls, or simple updos that suggest a certain nonchalance. It's not about trying too hard or being perfect, but rather about letting your hair do its thing and embracing its unique texture and shape. That means less heat styling and more focus on using nurturing hair products to keep your hair healthy.

French beauty standards emphasize enhancing natural beauty rather than completely changing it. This means going for a timeless, elegant, practical, and authentic look. The goal is to look and feel good in your own skin, emphasizing your natural allure instead of trying to cover it up with artificial enhancements. This philosophy is rooted in broader French values of authenticity, quality, and effortless elegance.

Final Thoughts

French woman style, especially for those over 50, is about embracing a timeless, effortless elegance. It’s about choosing quality over quantity, focusing on classic pieces, and always ensuring your clothes fit well and flatter your figure. Remember, the French approach to style is as much about attitude as it is about clothing. It's about confidence, simplicity, and embracing your own unique sense of self.