As someone who’s always been passionate about French fashion, I’ve spent years exploring the brands that define that effortless, chic style we all admire. While luxury labels tend to grab most of the attention, there are plenty of mid-range French brands that offer great quality without the designer price tag—and they deserve just as much recognition.
You’re probably familiar with brands like Sézane, Sandro, and The Frankie Shop, which have already gained international popularity. But there are also hidden gems like Tara Jarmon, Antik Batik, and Sessún that are well-loved in France but may not be as well-known abroad.
In this guide, I’m sharing some of my personal favorites—brands I love to shop at or have my eye on (when my budget allows!). From timeless basics to boho-chic and even some edgier styles, these brands offer something for everyone. I’ve also included a few practical tips on sizing, when to shop for sales, and how to get the most out of your purchases. Whether you’re planning a trip to Paris or Bordeaux or just browsing online, I hope this gives you some inspiration for your next fashion find :).
This post is not sponsored, and all opinions are my own. I only feature products I truly love and personally select. If you purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Merci!
1. Classic Parisian Chic
Elegant and timeless, these brands offer polished staples that define effortless Parisian style—perfect for versatile, everyday wear.
Sézane
Founded in 2013, Sézane offers high-quality, sustainable pieces for everyday wear. Known for essentials like the Max shirt and Gaspard cardigan, their sizing tends to run small—so I recommend sizing up for comfort. Prices are mid-range, and they often run great sales (“Les Archives”) during seasonal changes.
Balzac Paris
Founded in 2014 by Chrysoline de Gastines, Charles, and Victorien, Balzac Paris combines timeless Parisian elegance with a commitment to sustainability. If you’re a fan of Sézane’s style and price point, you’ll love Balzac Paris. It’s a beautifully crafted Parisian brand that’s all about effortless chic and thoughtful fashion—definitely worth discovering!
Sandro
A staple for Parisian chic since 1984, Sandro is loved for its effortless, high-quality designs—coats, blazers, and knitwear are standouts. Prices are higher, but the durability and quality justify the investment. Tip: shop during end-of-season sales for deals.
Maje
Maje, founded in 1998, offers a slightly more colorful and feminine alternative to Sandro. Their dresses and coats are perfect for a polished yet fun look. Keep an eye on their end-of-season sales for good deals on knitwear and coats.
Claudie Pierlot
Claudie Pierlot is preppy and polished, perfect for an everyday chic wardrobe. Tip: Their suits and outerwear shine during sales, making them a smart purchase for long-term wear.
Gerard Darel
Famous for its 24H bag, Gerard Darel offers high-quality, boho-inspired pieces perfect for effortless chic. Sizing can run small, so consider sizing up for trousers. Tip: This brand’s outerwear and bags are worth investing in during sales.
Ami Paris
Ami Paris, known for its tailoring, offers chic yet casual pieces. The Chemise Ami de Coeur is a fan favorite, and their bags are on many wishlists :). Tip: Their tailoring can be pricey, so wait for sales or check outlets.
Comptoir des Cotonniers
Comptoir des Cotonniers is known for timeless wardrobe basics shared between mothers and daughters. Look for high-quality coats and tailored pieces that last for years.
2. Bohemian & Romantic Vibes
For free spirits and romantics, these brands feature flowy fabrics, artistic prints, and feminine, boho-chic designs with a playful touch.
Ba&sh
Ba&sh‘s boho-chic vibe makes it a great alternative to pricier labels like Isabel Marant. Known for practical yet stylish pieces, it’s ideal for modern women balancing work and play. Tip: Look for their outerwear, which offers both style and functionality and watch for mid-season discounts.
Maison 123
Maison 123 combines boho flair with Parisian elegance, offering budget-friendly, stylish collections. Keep an eye out for their dresses and jumpsuits, which offer a lot of versatility at reasonable prices.
Louise Misha
Louise Misha offers whimsical, boho pieces with intricate embroidery and bright prints. Perfect for those who love artisanal details. Tip: shop their homeware and children’s collections for unique, playful items.
Antik Batik
Antik Batik offers colorful, artisanal pieces inspired by traditional craftsmanship from around the world. Their statement dresses and embroidered tops are perfect for a unique, boho look!
Vanessa Bruno
Known for the iconic Cabas tote, Vanessa Bruno mixes romance with practicality, making her pieces ideal for everyday wear. Tip: The Cabas tote is a versatile accessory that you can score at a discount during sales.
3. Minimalist & Contemporary Cool
Clean lines, neutral tones, and understated elegance. These brands focus on modern, simple essentials that are versatile and easy to wear.
Loulou Studio
Loulou Studio blends minimalist elegance with comfort. The brand’s tailored pants and knitwear are standout items. Watch out for sales on knitwear, as these pieces offer great long-term wear.
The Frankie Shop
The Frankie Shop is known for its oversized suits and gender-neutral pieces, combining Parisian cool with New York edge. Look for their smart blazers and tailored pants for versatile wardrobe additions.
Soeur
Soeur specializes in masculine lines and oversized cuts, offering timeless, understated pieces. Look for their outerwear and tailored pieces that transition easily between seasons.
Marie Marot
Marie Marot is your go-to for oversized and well-fitted shirts that work for any occasion! These versatile shirts are perfect for casual yet chic office wear.
Sessún
Sessùn blends contemporary fashion with artisanal craftsmanship, offering a mix of casual and chic styles. Tip: Invest in their high-quality knits and outerwear for a stylish, long-lasting wardrobe.
American Vintage
American Vintage is loved for its high-quality basics, like knitwear and T-shirts, which are perfect for layering. Their pieces are great for building a casual, comfortable wardrobe and often go on sale.
4. Feminine & Playful
Celebrate femininity with vibrant colors and delicate details. These brands mix timeless silhouettes with a fun, youthful twist.
Rosaé Paris
Rosaé Paris focuses on timeless, eco-responsible pieces made from upcycled fabrics. A newer brand, it offers an “ideal wardrobe” philosophy—perfect for sustainable shopping. Tip: Invest in their quality staples, which rarely go out of style.
Petite Mendigote
Offering feminine, comfortable designs, Petite Mendigote provides another great alternative to Sézane and Rosaé Paris. Great for accessories like bags and shoes that blend Parisian flair with comfort.
Rouje
Founded by Jeanne Damas, Rouje captures modern French femininity with vintage-inspired pieces. The dresses and skirts are perfect for easy, chic outfits that transition well between seasons.
Musier Paris
Musier Paris offers limited-edition pieces with an eco-conscious approach, combining classic femininity with modern twists. Tip: Their limited runs sell quickly, so act fast during drops, especially on their dresses and blouses.
Tara Jarmon
Tara Jarmon represents French chic with bold colors and playful designs. Look for vibrant coats and dresses that add a pop to your wardrobe, especially during sale seasons :).
5. Rock & Edgy
Bold and rebellious, these brands offer edgy, rock-inspired pieces with a Parisian touch—think leather, tailoring, and a cool attitude.
Zadig & Voltaire
Known for its rock-chic vibe, Zadig & Voltaire mixes leather, cashmere, and lace for a rebellious yet elegant look. Their leather jackets and cashmere sweaters are long-term investments that regularly go on sale.
The Kooples
The Kooples offers edgy, rock-inspired tailoring with a Parisian twist. Blazers and dresses are worth waiting for during sales, as they mix both casual and formal wearability.

Bonjour, I’m Léonce—though my real name is Mathilde Pittet. As a French creator, I offer a curated perspective on fashion, beauty, and lifestyle—an ode to le chic à la française. What began in 2018 as a passion project in London has grown into a journey of storytelling, inspired by authenticity and the art of living beautifully. From Paris to Amsterdam and now Bordeaux, my path has been shaped by a love of crafting moments that linger. Through Léonce Chenal, I invite you to explore the timeless allure of French style and the stories that bring it to life.
I would personally add FYU PARIS to this list as well :)) I discovered them recently and I’m obsessed!
Thanks a lot to get chance to know about brands in France,
Thank you for this wonderful and exhaustive list. I’ve enjoyed reading all of your posts and look forward to more.
Thank you <3