Secrets Of French Style

Secrets Of French Style French women are some of the most stylish woman in the world. They always look fashionable without appearing like they’re trying too hard. Uncontrived but still thought out. Simple and unique. And most importantly, confident no matter what.

How do they do it? Dressing “Parisian-chic” is all about taking the basics and adding an unexpected but glamorous touch of flair. Here, in honor of Bastille Day, are seven secrets to help you dress like a stylish French woman, and exude that “je ne sais quoi” that they all possess:

The Staples If you’re looking to channel your inner French gal, it all starts with the staples. Take it from Ines de la Fressange, author of the style guide ‘Parisian Chic.’ This authentic French fashionista says that many great outfits can stem from the “Magnificent Seven”—seven simple wardrobe staples that you can make your own by add your unique touch.

These closet must-haves include: the trench coat, the (navy) cashmere sweater, a man’s blazer, a leather jacket, a tank top and the pair of perfect jeans. Splurging on a pair of jeans that hug you in all the right places is always a good idea.

Citizens of Humanity Kelly Bootcut Jeans ($154, saksfifthavenue.com)

Cardigans Cardigans, all the time, all year round. These light sweaters are pretty, versatile and can complete any outfit. Now that it’s summer time, don’t be afraid to sport a brightly colored cardigan, like this turquoise one from J. Crew. Just make sure you never match it to the T-shirt or tank top underneath it. A camisole in either white or a contrasting color is the way to go.

Featherweight cotton cardigan (on sale for $39.99, jcrew.com)

Mix Affordable With High-Fashion Dressing like a City of Lights native is not all about wearing high-end labels and spending thousands of dollars on well-known French designers. In fact, doing so is not advisable— French woman look effortlessly stylish, and walking around dressed head to toe in Christian Dior will make it look like you’re trying too hard.

But that’s not to say you can’t wear your favorite designer jacket blouse. Keep your wardrobe chic and wallet-friendly by pairing designer pieces with affordable ones. Love those Louboutin heels you’ve splurged on? Wear them with a pair of men’s trousers and a top from Express.

Christian Louboutin Devalavi Chunky-Heel Slingback ($845, neimanmarcus.com)

Embellished Woven Top ($54.90, express.com)

Skip Trends And Blatant “American” Labeling Abercrombie & Fitch. Tommy Hilfiger. North Face. UGGs—no, no, no, no.

Dressing like a stylish French woman means not wearing clothing that advertises the store’s name across your chest, or anywhere else for that matter. Same goes for easily identifiable prints. As pretty as that Lilly Pulitzer printed sundress and matching bag may be, your outfit will be shouting “label-slave,” not “Paris.”

In addition, sporting the season’s most popular trends is ill-advised. It’s just too easy. French style means looking original and thoughtful but still effortless. And wearing the “in-style” DVF wrap dress with the Tory Burch sandals that you, your sister, and your best’s friend’s cousin all have is too predictable. That no-name dress or shoes are much better picks.

Accessorize Right The French certainly know how to accessorize. But here’s the key to looking Parisian—jewelry is definitely a yes, but too much jewelry is a big no-no. Stepping out of your house donning so much bling that you resemble a disco ball is all kinds of tacky—and the French are anything but tacky!

When it comes to jewelry, keep it classy and pretty basic. Pearls and diamonds are both great choices because they can work with any look, whether you’re grabbing a morning latte or heading out on the town at night. And no, they don’t have to be real—no one ever questions a fashionable woman who looks confident with her style choices!

Hats, headbands and scarves are also encouraged!

Lauren by Ralph Lauren Roseberry Crystal Stone and Glass Pearl Equestrian Link Necklace ($54, Bloomingdales.com)

Opposites Attract How can you use those simple pieces in your wardrobe and create a super-chic original outfit that has everyone envious? Don’t be afraid to mix and match items that you wouldn’t usually pair up. Think: a pearl necklace with a vintage T-shirt instead of a feminine sweater. Or a blazer with a pair of shorts instead of dress pants. If you’re not afraid to play around, your outfit choices are endless. Plus, it’s like shopping for new looks in your own closet!

Shh…Don’t Tell! So maybe you bought your fabulous knee-length skirt at Target, and maybe you found that awesome green vest on the clearance rack at Marshall’s. And that’s great—everyone loves a good bargain. But who needs to know?

To look like an authentic Parisian woman, it doesn’t matter what you spend on your clothes. Don’t blab to your friends about how your gorgeous crochet top was only $13. To really dress the part, keep your head up and walk with a bounce in your step that lets everyone know that you’re self-assured in whatever you’re wearing.

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