Get French Style

The main reason French women like actress, Charlotte Rampling, always look so elegant is because they invest in very well-made, tailored, and stylish basics. These include exquisite coats, handbags, dresses, and shoes that will last season to season and will withstand the fleeting trends. These basics dont necessarily have to cost a fortune, but they do have to fit extremely well and must go with everything, which is why neutral tones like black, white, brown, nude, etc. work so well and are what French women often wear.

A major difference between American and French women is that we tend to jump on every trend, even if we shouldnt. But, French women dont fall prey to fleeting styles that wont work with other items in their closet or wont flatter their body type. This is why you wont see Juliette Binoche in a trend that doesnt work for her, because its not about having the latest it item its about sticking with what works. Its not the most exciting approach to fashion, but it is logical and ensures no style disasters.

While their outfits may be expertly calculated, French womens hairstyles typically arent. In fact, the French love tousled, just-rolled-out-of-bed hair, and dont fuss with making sure every strand is perfectly in place (they also dont spend a fortune at the salon like we do). The trick to this effortless look that Audrey Tautou perfects is to let go of your usual routine, step away from the hairspray, and let your hair fall naturally at your shoulders. If the thought of that makes you uncomfortable, try a loose, messy bun or chignon. Just remember: no fuss.

Youll seldom see a French woman having a shopping spree at the makeup counter they simply dont wear that much. For them, a little red lipstick goes a long way. But, the skincare counter is a different story. French women are much more concerned about their skin they will try the latest and greatest creams, moisturizers, and serums to ensure they have flawless, wrinkle and blemish-free skin from head to toe. For women like Catherine Deneuve, makeup only covers up the large investment shes made in perfecting her natural glow.

And finally, what makes a French womans style so covetable? The way shell tie everything togetherthe hair, glowing skin, perfectly fitting basicswith one or two carefully selected accessories. Less is more is a common phrase in French fashion, and its easy to see why it works. Whether its one pearl necklace, a beautifully-patterned scarf, or an elegant cocktail ring, accessories are worn to make a statement, as Kristen Scott Thomas shows here. This is precisely why French women always look so stylish they wear the clothes and accessories, not the other way around. Que belle!