Welcome to the fourth in our style series to help you define and refine your style for 2025. This week – La Parisienne
Paris has been the capital of fashion since the seventeenth century and the French city is showing no signs of losing its touch. Whether it’s the beauty of the bâtiments or there’s something in the croissants, it’s not just the ateliers that have the edge. Walk along the street of any arrondissement and you’ll see the Parisian magic at work – a clutch of basics nonchalantly styled into a super chic ‘fit.
And this is probably the essence of French style - however carefully a wardrobe has been curated, the wearing seems effortless, relaxed, utterly self-assured. So when it comes to our own fashion choices, who wouldn’t want to go a little Parisienne?
Parisienne Style Icons
- Charlotte Gainsbourg
- Jeanne Damas
- Caroline de Maigret
- Clemence Poesy
- The Roitfields
Parisienne Outfit Essentials
For more ideas here is our collection Style Personality: La Parisienne
Parisienne Jeans
Straight leg is the classic choice but wide legs and flares work too, especially for rockier looks
Plain shirts and T Shirts
To pull off elevated basics, go for good quality fabric and a great cut
Perfect boyfriend T Shirt (White)
A blazer
For styling inspiration please see Andrea Martel / Camille Cottin in Call my Agent
A Stripe
No Parisian wardrobe can be without stripes – also useful for this season’s fisherman looks
Camille Striped Jumper (Navy/Ivory)
An easy dress
Must be thrown on nonchalantly as if for an impromptu Seine-side stroll
Beautiful shoes and a bag
Focus on beautifully worked leather
Less is more
To nail the insouciance of French style, keep things simple. Impeccable basics are the foundation of the look, don’t be afraid to wear them on repeat. That’s not to say statement pieces are out though, just keep everything else pared-back.
Personal details
A Parisian wardrobe might be full of classics, but it’s far from identikit. Mix in individual pieces such as a favourite gift or a vintage find to bring your own unique style to the look. Even a detail can make the difference – perhaps a pair of earrings or your way of tying a belt.
Keep colours muted . . .
No need to make a splash when it comes to colour. Neutrals or more subdued, earthy shades are preferred although brights can work for the odd accent piece. Pastels are always popular in spring but look for ‘low sugar’ options such as white-based pinks so the overall effect isn’t too sweet. Monochrome or tonal dressing helps to give the whole outfit the necessary French polish, use texture from different fabrics to bring depth.
. . . .But don’t be afraid to shine
Adding some shimmer is a great way to bring some esprit to an understated look. Think of a subtle shot of lurex, metallics or sequins.
Masculine and feminine
Parisians have mastered the art of blending the structure of masculine style with a softer, more romantic spirit. Try a lace top with a sharply tailored suit or a blazer over a silk dress.
Lustworthy looks
Paris is the city of love so it should be no surprise that in fashion too, it has the secret of seduction. The style celebrates natural beauty so don’t be afraid to show some skin –– whether it’s the hint of a bare shoulder or the curve of a (perfectly buffed) back.
French revolution
Whilst French style celebrates discretion, it’s also fun and rebellious, so don’t be afraid to throw an unexpected detail into the mix. Add a statement tee to classic jeans and a blazer.