10 Essentials That Build a French Capsule Wardrobe, According to a Parisian Woman

A workhorse in and of itself, the classic blazer is a piece the French won’t break up with. While Americans have been on an oversize blazer kick for quite some time now, our Parisian friends prefer a more bespoke silhouette that’s refined and well-fitted. “A well-tailored blazer adds a touch of sophistication and effortlessly elevates any outfit,” says Argenson. “It's like having a secret weapon for those unexpected invitations—throw it on and voila, instant chic!”

No French-inspired outfit is complete without a pair of sunglasses—specifically, classic shapes like oval or Wayfarer in muted hues like black and tortoise. The rounded edges of the oval shape are graceful, soft and won’t compete with or call attention away from the rest of your outfit, and same with the soft lines of the Wayfarer. Per Argenson’s advice, it’s best to avoid anything too flashy, and “Keep your [accessories] simple and let your personal style shine through. It's all about striking that perfect balance between comfort and flair.”

The long trench coat is “a timeless piece that exudes Parisian chic,” Argenson tells me. Both Parisians and trench coats have that certain je nais se quois “It” factor, the exact reason that makes their look never go out of style. They’re elongating, weather-resistant and perfect for any season. Argenson adds, “Think of Audrey Hepburn dashing through the rain, always looking fabulous.” While there are many renditions of and modern twists on the traditional garb (from leather to wool to silk), if you want to wear it like the French, I recommend opting for traditional trench coats made from 100 percent cotton gabardine, as these are known to be lightweight, waterproof and breathable.  

Of these comfortable and stylish kicks, Argenson says, “Picture yourself strolling through the cobblestone streets of Paris, feet happy and stylish.” These upscale shoes really took off when Gucci launched their new Horsebit style of shoes in 1953, and over the decades, new iterations have remained a constant classic not only in Paris, but London, Palm Beach and New York City, per the brand’s history archive. For the French, loafers can be worn with anything and everything, especially that aforementioned blazer. I’ve seen some Parisians style theirs with tights and skirts, as well as long socks and jeans.

According to Argenson, floral maxi dresses are key pieces in any French capsule wardrobe. “A flowing, floral maxi dress captures the essence of French femininity and is perfect for both casual and formal occasions. It's like wearing a piece of the French countryside no matter where you are,” she explains. The French are all about versatility and they aren’t afraid of outfit repeating, because they can tweak the look with styling, be it with a fluffy cardigan or trench coat, loafers or ballet flats, a shoulder bag or clutch. The secret to executing this style is to find a floral maxi that can act as a base. Think: dresses with few colors, a sleek and simple silhouette and a lightweight, crepe-like fabric.

If there’s one thing the French will never stop loving, it’s stripes, particularly the Breton sailor stripe shirts. Argenson explains, “This iconic striped shirt is a quintessential part of French style, adding a nautical touch to any outfit. Channel your inner sailor and feel the sea breeze, even if you're just grabbing a coffee.” Though I’m often amazed at how they manage to make it look anything but nautical when they do wear it, and I can’t help but notice this has to do with how they style it. I’ve seen Camille Yolaine—founder of French beauty brand, Yolaine—couple hers with relaxed pieces like blue jeans and a little something extra, such as a bright red headband and gold hoop earrings. During the colder months, she marries the maritime look with urban dress, styling it with dark-wash jeans, brown boots and a pop of color with a neck scarf.

One thing you’ll see in every French woman’s closet: a white button-up blouse. “Elegant and versatile, a white fluid blouse can be dressed up or down, offering a touch of effortless grace. It’s as if your wardrobe whispered, ‘Let’s be effortlessly elegant today,’” says Argenson. While Americans may see corporate upon first glance, the French see fashion, options and endless possibilities—a blank canvas, if you will. PureWow’s Senior Director of Special Projects and Royals, Rachel Bowie, demonstrated five chic and cool ways you can style a white button-up, and there are a few options that are très Parisien. Remember, it’s all about how you style it. Cute accessories like a straw bucket bag and strappy heeled sandals (as pictured above) can put an alluring, French spin on the traditional blouse.

You heard it from the expert: “No French wardrobe is complete without a scarf.” Think of the silk scarf as the Parisian way to introduce some color, add a bit of character and pizazz to a basic fit. Entirely refined and sophisticated, a dainty scarf tied around your neck can really take your outfit to the next level. “It's the perfect accessory to add a splash of color and personality to any ensemble,” Argenson notes. “Imagine tying it in countless ways, each one more sophisticated than the last.” Couple it with your blazer or, as I previously mentioned, make like Yolaine and wear it with a Breton sailor shirt.

For the French, cardigans are much more than a lump of wool, cotton or acrylic fabric, or a piece to combat the cold and turbulent weather in. No, they’re often the pièce de resistance of an outfit, acting as the finishing layer to a romantic sundress and heels or becoming the main focal point with a pair of jeans and boots. They’re exceptionally great pieces to wear when the weather fluctuates, too, as they can keep you warm when temps drop and on hot summer days, you can always tie them around your shoulder to keep cool and still look très cute. After all, the French know how to spot a solid sweater trend when they see it.

As a longtime admirer of French style, one thing I’ve always appreciated is their commitment to denim. During this year’s Paris Fashion Week, Parisians sported double denim in the form of the Canadian tuxedo. At the end of the day, the one piece that remains a constant amidst the flashy trends is a steadfast vintage pair of jeans. While a wide-leg jean may come and go, the French woman usually prefers a well-fitted, straight-leg pair of baby blues that hugs her natural curves and shows off the bum (bonus points if the hem falls just above the ankle). The closest I’ve managed to get to the vintage look is with Reformation’s Cynthia jeans, which I put to the test in an in-depth review over the course of a few months.