Why learn French when you can learn timeless Parisian wardrobe staples? In this article, we’ll introduce you to 17 French Timeless French Wardrobe Essentials that are perfect for any occasion. From sleek skirts to cozy cardigans, these pieces will have you looking like a cultured Parisian in no time!
So whether you’re planning a trip to the City of Love or just want to upgrade your style, read on for tips and guidance on how to put these pieces together.
17 Timeless French Wardrobe Essentials from Paris You Must Know
1. H&M Men’s Blazers
As I’m sure most of you know by now, because we’ve reported so many times about these great blazers: We swear by H&M’s men’s blazers* because they’re made of a much sturdier viscose than their counterparts from the H&M women’s department.
The soft yet sturdy fabric is simply brilliant, as it ensures that the blazer stays in its usual shape even after years of wear and doesn’t start to wrinkle or shrink like so many other blazers on the market, which are usually made of a lot of polyester. This makes it a piece that can make you look super expensive in no time – without being so.
Another advantage of the blazer from the men’s department is that it sits so nicely oversized, making it totally stylish and modern.
I myself have actually had this model for years and now in pretty much every color – and none have ever disappointed me!
They still sit as the first day and are faithful companions that can definitely keep up in quality with my virgin wool blazer, which just as little creases or falls apart somehow.
A hearty recommendation for all blazer lovers!
2. Button-Down Shirts by COS
Everyone needs high-quality button-down shirts in their closet for the warm days, because the classics can be super casual simply pulled over a top or also buttoned up just always look super elegant.
But since here too, unfortunately, in most fashion stores more and more synthetic fibers such as polyester are mixed, these look super fast totally cheap.
Therefore, it’s essential to rely on high-quality button-down shirts made of 100% linen, viscose, or cotton – and those of COS always are*.
In addition, they offer great shirts in many different colors and patterns – so there should be something for everyone.
3. Trench Coats by Mango
Mango is my all-time favorite when it comes to good jackets and coats* for small money.
But in particular, I swear by the trench coats because they come from a big cotton and viscose content, which makes them pretty high quality.
In addition, I really all jackets and coats that I have so of Mango, worn for years, and am always fully satisfied! For this I love the brand – it brings me namely every year new through colder days or colder evenings.
Feel free to stop by there and make sure you check out their outerwear!
This is my all-time favorite trench coat:
Cotton. Straight design. Mid-design. Lapel collar. Long sleeves with buttons at the ends. Belt loops. Adjustable belt. Front button closure. Two side pockets. Back vent. Lining.
$79.99
4. Leather Shoulder Bags by COS
For strolling in the city with your best friend, for brunch, or for the morning coffee to go.
No matter where this bag accompanies you, your arm and looks 10x higher quality.
Timeless Classic. Expensive-Looking. What more could you ask for?
The perfect longtime friend.
Quality is a Feeling.
Made from soft leather and fully lined with organic cotton, this folded shoulder bag features a wide adjustable strap, a magnetic button closure, and a detachable zip pouch to carry your essentials.
An investment for this season and the next that folds perfectly below the shoulder.
- Embossed COS logo
- Adjustable flat pins
Shell: 100% Leather, Lining: 100% Organic cotton
$190
5. Leather Loafers
Leather loafers are the everyday shoes you can’t help but feel and look expensive without.
They’re comfortable and you can combine them in 2 seconds. They go with everything.
And by the way, they make any of your outfits 5x more stylish.
These chunky loafers are made in Portugal and are crafted from pure leather using an environmentally friendly chrome-free dyeing process. They feature a rounded square toe, wide front strap, and a stacked rubber sole.
- Enforced toe panel and heel counter
- Leather lined
Upper: 100% Leather, Sole: 100% Thermoplastic rubber
$250
6. Long-Sleeve T-Shirt with Ruffles
Yes, this may sound boring, BUT: expensive-looking t-shirts and other tops are a super important part of your outfit that can either elevate the look and make it chicer, or completely mess it up.
That’s why I urge you to pay special attention to these small, but fine details, because they have great potential.
Here you should pay particular attention to high-quality fabrics such as viscose, cotton, silk, or linen because they prevent excessive sweating and are air-permeable.
This top here, for example, is my all-time favorite, as it just always looks good and is exciting at the same time, as it doesn’t quite cover your neck and thus exposes your collarbone as an eye-catcher.
Crafted from a fine ECOVERO™ Viscose blend, this black top features an off-the-shoulder neckline and elegant long sleeves. The minimal seams create a clean silhouette.
- Slim fit
- ECOVERO™ is a trademark of Lenzing AG. Viscose fibers are derived from certified renewable wood sources using a lower environmental impact process
67% ECOVERO™ Viscose, 27% Polyamide (Nylon), 6% Elastane / Machine wash cold
$69
7. The Striped Sweater
Timeless. Cozy. Expensive looking.
Crafted from a soft blend of wool and cotton, this timeless striped sweater is the perfect layering piece for cooler days. It comes in white and has a roll neck.
- Side slits
- Raglan sleeves
- Certified by the Responsible Wool Standard, to protect the welfare of the sheep and their environment
64% RWS Wool, 36% Cotton
$135
8. Cashmere is Your Best Friend
Yes, cashmere is a high-quality, comfortable fabric. Yes, it’s also a bit more expensive.
But I promise you: it’s an investment worth making.
The cashmere pieces that I bought over 10 years ago, I still wear today. They look and feel the same as on the first day.
There is no other fabric that makes you look so high quality and glamorous.
Knitted from pure cashmere in soft cream, this top features a rolled crew neck, dropped shoulders, and neatly ribbed trims.
It's designed for a relaxed fit that drapes elegantly over the body.
- Raglan sleeves
100% Cashmere / Machine wash cold
$250
9. The Linen Shirt
Forget everything you know about sweating. Linen is temperature regulating. It won’t make you sweat or freeze.
Comfortable to wear. Expensive in appearance.
Crafted from lightweight and breathable linen, this beige regular-fit shirt is designed to last beyond the seasons.
It has a classic pointed collar, concealed placket, and a curved hem that's slightly longer at the back. For a complete set, wear it with its matching item.
- Long sleeves
- Buttoned cuffs
- Back pleats
100% Linen / Machine wash cold
$99
10. Midi Tube Dress
Feel feminine while being on trend.
Knitted from a blend of recycled fabric with a touch of stretch for comfort, this black tube dress is designed for a close fit with shaping at the waist to highlight the silhouette.
- Thin straps
- Made from pre-consumer waste and used fishing nets, recycled nylon reduces our demand on natural resources
56% Viscose, 43% Recycled polyamide (Recycled nylon), 1% Elastane / Machine washable
$135
11. Linen Pants
The pleasure of linen. As pants.
12. Aviator Sunglasses
Classic sunglasses simply belong in every closet.
Designed in the COS atelier, these aviator sunglasses are part of our debut sunglasses collection. Crafted from recycled brass with a gold-tone finish, they feature tinted polarized lenses and are finished with a flexible hinge and a curved temple for a comfortable fit.
- Adjustable nose pads
- 100% UV protection
- This product bears the CE mark
$120
13. Pleated Shorts
14. Linen Blazer
The pleasure of linen. As blazer.
15. The Statement Pullover
Crafted from a traceable mohair blend, this regular-fit intarsia-knit sweater has a simple round neck and ribbed trims for comfort with a slightly cropped body. Our in-house atelier designed the bold landscape print, which makes it a striking piece to brighten any day.
- Long sleeves
- Certified according to the Responsible Mohair Standard, to protect the welfare of the goats and their environment
55% RMS Mohair, 30% Recycled polyamide (Recycled nylon, 15% RWS Wool
$135
16. Pleated Pants
Crafted from traceable wool, these black wide-leg tailored trousers have been designed to fall loosely over the body. The front pleats and back darts create a flattering silhouette, while the side slip pockets and back welt pocket make them functional. The concealed adjustable-button tab allows the trousers to be worn low-slung or on the waist.
- Hook-and-bar closure
- Certified according to the Responsible Wool Standard, to protect the welfare of the sheep and their environment
100% RWS Wool / Dry clean
$150
17. The Polo Shirt
Crafted from pure cotton, this long-sleeved polo shirt comes in timeless navy and is designed for a regular fit. It has relaxed sleeves, a ribbed spread collar, and a buttoned half placket.
- Organic corozo button closure
- Side slits
100% Cotton / Machine wash warm
$59
What Every French Woman has in her Wardrobe?
French women are typically known for their stylish attire, and there is no exception when it comes to clothing. From high-end designer brands to affordable staples, Parisian ladies have an abundance of options when it comes to finding fashionable and comfortable clothes.
Some of the most popular items in Frenchwoman’s wardrobes include blazers, cardigans, pantsuits, skirts/dresses (both tailored and flowy), boots/heels/ flats/, sweaters,… The list goes on!
So whether you’re looking for something classic or exciting new style recommendations, trust us – a visit to a French woman’s wardrobe will be an unforgettable experience for your fashion sense! 😉
What do French People Wear on a Daily Basis?
When it comes to what French people wear on a daily basis, there is no one answer that applies to everyone.
However, some popular items include woolen sweaters, cardigans, and skirts. In fact, many people in France prefer wearing clothes that are both warm and fashionable at the same time!
French women also love accessorizing their outfits with hats and purses. They often favor natural materials such as cotton or wool over synthetic fabrics, which makes for more environmentally friendly choices.
When it comes to footwear, most Frenchwomen like comfortable flats or boots rather than high heels. As you can see from this list of typical clothing items for Frenchpeople, there is something for everyone who wants to dress stylishly while staying true to sustainability initiatives.
How Do You Start a French Wardrobe?
If you’re looking to dress stylishly and comfortably in the French style, then you need to start with a solid wardrobe foundation.
Here are 5 simple steps that will help you create a timeless french wardrobe:
1. Start with versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down. A classic example of this is the blazer – it can be worn with jeans or a skirt, and can also be added some pizzazz by accessorizing with a scarf or earrings.
2. Make sure you have plenty of versatile shoes – flats, ankle boots, pumps, etc. – so you can easily switch up your look without having to go through the hassle of buying multiple pairs of shoes.
3. Keep your accessories minimal but chic – a good rule of thumb is to only add one or two pieces per outfit, and focus on complementing rather than contrasting your clothing items.
4. Opt for layers instead of heavy clothing on cold days – this will help stop any overheating while still keeping you warm and comfortable.
5. Stick to neutrals and earth tones when choosing your clothes – they will go with everything and always look classy and put together no matter what you wear them with!
What are the Essentials of a French Wardrobe?
When it comes to a french wardrobe, there are a few key pieces that you’ll need.
For starters, you’ll need classic items like a pair of white and blue mom jeans such as a blazer. You can also go for more stylish options such as culottes or wide-brimmed hats.
To match your outfits perfectly, consider buying French shoes like heels or boots.
And finally, add some essential accessories like bracelets or necklaces to complete your look.
How Do You Choose what clothes to Buy for Your French Wardrobe?
It can be hard to know what to wear when you’re trying to outfits for a French vacation, but fortunately, there are some simple tips that will help.
Firstly, think about the type of weather you’ll be heading into. will it be sunny or rainy? Will it be cold or hot? Each clothing item should match the climate and environment that you’re planning on encountering.
Next, consider your outfit goals. What do you want to achieve while wearing these clothes? Are you looking for something comfortable and versatile enough to wear all day long or are you more interested in achieving a specific look? Once again, matching your outfit with the occasion is important so as not to mismatch styles or get too confused while on vacation. (Although that never actually happens…)
Finally, choose your wardrobe essentials – items like sneakers/shoes, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses (if necessary). While they may not seem glamorous at first glance (or at least they didn’t until we started this article), these basic pieces play an essential role in ensuring that our looks balance out regardless of where we are and what we’re doing.
So next time someone asks how Parisian fashion galore works…we have an answer!
Is it Better to Buy French or Italian Clothes?
This is a difficult question to answer as it depends on your individual preferences.
French designers tend to have more intricate details and are known for their luxurious styles, while Italian brands are often more affordable and stylish.
It also depends on the current fashion trends, so you may want to try something new from both perspectives before settling on one in particular.
Ultimately, it’s important to find clothes that make you feel confident and beautiful no matter what the occasion might be!
*Disclosure: We only recommend products we would use ourselves and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
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