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So by now, we all know what a Parisian has in her wardrobe (basics), but what many may still be wondering now is “how”. As in, how do these iconic women style their wardrobe basics in an effortless way? Enter: French go-to outfit combinations. I asked 4 French women what their favorite outfit combinations are and they provided me with 10+ outfit combinations that look chic with little to no effort. And the best part? They can be easily recreated in no time.
1. Simple and Chic Mini Skirt, a Simple T-Shirt, and a Fitted Men’s Jacket
A 3 piece outfit that looks polished and stylish? Sign me up. I love the contrast of a casual t-shirt with a nicer jacket. The mini skirt is an unexpected choice, making it feel funky and fresh.
But the best part about all of these outfit ideas is that they can be easily tweaked to fit your age, style, and comfort. If you don’t want to wear a mini skirt, you could find a skirt with a longer hemline or swap it out for jeans.
2. Romantic Dress and Boots
A dress is a perfect thing to throw on when you don’t know what to wear or don’t feel like putting forward a lot of effort, while still looking put-together.
Paired with boots, it adds structure and “toughens” up the piece. An outfit like this is great for transitional dressing too.
3. Trench Coat and White Basketball Shoes or Pumps
It doesn’t get much more classic than a trench coat. And this versatile piece is an iconic favorite for Parisian women that can be worn in two different ways (and counting!).
Pair with sneakers for a casual chic look or with heels if you’re headed out. What you wear underneath it is up to you!
4. Tight White T-Shirt and Nice Black Pants
Pairing something tight and fitted with something flowy is a great way to find balance in an outfit and keep it from looking frumpy. Plus, black pants are a classic, ensuring this outfit will look good for any occasion.
Related: Fight the Frump: 12 Easy Ways You Can Fix Your Frumpy Outfits
5. White Short Pants and Men’s Moccasins
As you can see, Parisian women love to add menswear pieces to their outfits. The end result is unique, stylish, and classic.
Instead of looking like a “trendy” person, you look like a person that has knowledge of mixing and matching. And that is true style.
6. Belt on a Man’s Jacket
Jeans, a sweater, and ankle boots make up the majority of French women’s favorite wardrobe pieces. Swap out the outerwear to create a new look and get creative with the styling, such as belting an oversized coat.
7. Simple but Elegant Ballerinas and Mini Skirts
Ballet flats (or ballerina flats) are the perfect casual chic shoe to have in your wardrobe arsenal. They are easy to wear, simple, yet pretty, adding a feminine touch to all your looks.
8. Tuxedo Pants, Low-Cut Jacket, and Ballerinas or Pumps
Need a formal look? Give your cocktail dress a break and try out this outfit idea instead. Alluring yet stylish, this outfit consisting of heels mixed with menswear has a certain charisma. But if heels aren’t your thing, switch them out for ballet flats instead.
9. Slim Jeans, a Shirt, a Blazer, and a Chanel Bag
French women showcase their labels sparingly and selectively. The iconic “Cs” look chic here, instead of showy, when paired with dependable basics. The end result is a polished look that’s high-end but not trying too hard.
Related: How To Mix High and Low Fashion (& Know When To Splurge and When To Save)
10. High Boots, a Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater, Denim, and a Cape
This outfit idea shows just one way you can look chic when the temperatures start to drop. A cape is a very chic alternative to a basic coat and when paired with a turtleneck, it still offers warmth.
11. Jeans, a Shirt, and Stylish Shoes
Not every outfit needs to have a”wow” piece, but in a simple combination like this, stylish shoes come in handy.
Whether that’s the design, color, or print, find shoes that add a little bit of “oomph” to your wardrobe basics.
12. T-Shirt/ Jumper, Jewels, a Belt To Dress It Up, and Platforms
Though there may be nothing revolutionary about a jumper (sweater) and jeans, with the right accessories, the outfit can look fresh and stylish.
Things like a belt and jewelry will never go out of style, so if you think an outfit needs a little “pick me up” try styling it with these accessories.
13. Short Dress and Trench Coat (Swap Out for a Tailored Navy Blue Coat in Winter)
1 simple dress, 2 ways. Whether it’s spring or winter, simple items like a black dress can look chic in both seasons, without looking the same.
Invest in a black dress you love and be prepared to want to style it all the time!
Start with these 13 outfit ideas, try them on, and make tweaks if needed so they become your own. Because that’s what personal style is after all!
To get more style tips from these French women, keep reading: I Learned These 7 Foundational French Fashion Tips After Interviewing Parisian Women
