Photo by © J. Crew
The French woman’s effortlessly chic style is a force to be reckoned with. Somehow, with just a few simple items, she achieves a look that is both fierce and fabulous yet also casual and relaxed.
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Having mastered the art of layering, fall is a particularly exciting season for the French fashionistas. This iconic technique allows for a simple system of dressing with items that can be mixed and matched. All that is required are some essential base pieces, stylish and practical accessories, and a few subtle touches that pull the outfit together.
Read on to discover the classic elements needed to get that je ne sais quoi French look and click the images to shop the items for your French-inspired wardrobe.
THE ESSENTIALS
The Oversized Button-down
Perhaps the most common item you will find in any French woman’s closet is a button-down shirt. Often a little oversized, this basic piece can be dressed up or down, worn open or closed, and layered either with a shirt underneath or a sweater on top. This is a year-round essential that makes any outfit look chic.
The Comfortable Jeans
Jeans have become more popular in France in recent years, and no one is complaining. The most popular fit is straight jeans with a boot cut. This is another item that can be dressed up or down with sneakers or heeled booties. Jeans go great with a white button-down shirt slightly tucked in at the front.
The Light Trench Coat
This transitional time of year calls for light outerwear. The dropping temperatures require a jacket, but it’s not quite time yet to pull out the wool coats. A trench coat is a perfect piece that looks fabulous worn open or tied closed.
The Sweater Jacket
If it’s not quite cool enough for a trench coat, a cropped sweater jacket is a great middle ground. Classic and chic, this item is très français.
THE ACCESSORIES
The Shoes
It is often said that the shoes make the outfit. Flats are comfortable and practical and these options from French brands will have you stepping out in style. BA&SH loafers make a casual outfit look sophisticated while Veja sneakers go with anything. Volubilis is a new French brand on the MFCH boutique that will make even your lounging outfits look stylish.
To embrace the style of the season, booties are never a bad idea. Even with a small heel, this accessory will elevate any outfit.
The Bag
Perhaps the most essential accessory is a good bag. The best French bags are both practical and fashionable. Sézane’s fall collection this year has plenty of fabulous options, and on the MFCH Boutique you will find durable and chic suede bags from the brand Tampico.
THE SUBTLE TOUCHES
The Belt
Sometimes it’s the littlest details that make the biggest impact. If you wear the classic combination of jeans with a sweater or button-down tucked in at the front, this provides a perfect moment to flash a statement belt. A simple belt can also tie an outfit together with matching shoes or a bag.
The Socks
Basic footwear can easily get jazzed up with the addition of fun and playful socks! St Eustache is a female-founded French brand that makes unique transparent socks with colorful and creative designs. Find these options and more on the MFCH Boutique.
The Jewelry
For the finishing touch, some subtle bling makes any look sparkle. Layered rings and a colorful silk watch look elegant popping out of the sleeves of a sweater, while a statement necklace can give a basic top a novel edge.
Use this simple system of dressing to step into the new autumn season with fabulous French flair!
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