The 20 French Clothing Brands Parisians Swear By

In the labyrinthine streets of Paris, there exists a sartorial secret known only to the discerning few. It is here, in the world’s fashion capital, that the concept of “affordable luxury” finds its most elegant expression through a coterie of French clothing brands that have become the whispered confidences of chic Parisians. These brands, each with a story as rich as their fabrics, offer a gateway to a world where luxury is not just a product but an experience that doesn’t necessitate an exorbitant price tag.

This article unfolds the pages of Parisian wardrobes to reveal twenty affordable luxury French clothing brands that have become the cornerstone of everyday elegance for those who walk the rues and boulevards of this city. These are the labels that Parisians, known for their impeccable taste and understated sophistication, swear by. From the charm of heritage houses to the innovative spirit of contemporary labels, each brand weaves a narrative of quality, style, and accessibility.

Join me as we delve into the heart of Parisian chic, exploring how these brands have mastered the art of crafting pieces that resonate with the allure of luxury while remaining attainable. This is a celebration of French fashion that honors timeless appeal over transient trends and thoughtful production over fast fashion—a true homage to the Parisian philosophy of dressing well without the pretense of extravagance.

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1. Sézane

Sézane, a Parisian clothing brand founded in 2013 by Morgane Sézalory, encapsulates the quintessence of French fashion by offering high-quality, sustainable pieces crafted for everyday wear. Born from Sézalory’s early ventures in curating and selling vintage fashion, the brand has evolved to provide timeless garments, balancing luxury and affordability. Sézane offers a core collection of essential pieces, complemented by seasonal releases and exclusive monthly capsules that capture the essence of Parisian chic. With the introduction of the menswear line Octobre Éditions and the philanthropic initiative “Demain,” Sézane has expanded its reach while adhering to its foundational values of quality and social responsibility.

2. Sandro

Sandro, established in 1984 by Evelyne Chetrite, encapsulates the effortless elegance and understated sophistication that Paris is renowned for. As the Artistic Director, Chetrite infuses Sandro with her vision of femininity, where the interplay of masculine and feminine elements crafts a discreet yet impactful presence. The brand’s sartorial narrative is deeply interwoven with the Parisian spirit, making its collections a celebration of French chic with a distinctive twist. The brand’s aesthetic is characterized by clean lines and graphic details, creating a space of minimalist elegance that speaks to a contemporary and discerning clientele.

3. Loulou Studio

Loulou Studio founded by the Parisian creative force Chloé Harrouche, emerged onto the fashion scene in 2019 as a purveyor of quintessential French minimalism. The brand is a reflection of Harrouche’s personal quest for the ideal knitwear, a journey that culminated in the creation of a line that marries the effortless elegance of Parisian style with the comfort and versatility of modern essentials. Loulou Studio’s collections are a study in contrasts—where softness meets strength, simplicity coexists with edge, and femininity is expressed with a masculine grace.

Crafted from natural fabrics sourced from the finest European and Mongolian suppliers, Loulou Studio’s garments are the result of a symbiotic partnership with artisans. The brand’s ethos is encapsulated in its seashell logo—a symbol of the delicate yet resilient nature of the clothing and the women who wear it. With a palette of neutral tones and timeless silhouettes, Loulou Studio’s offerings are designed to integrate seamlessly into the existing wardrobe of any woman, providing a soft yet empowering sartorial armor for everyday life.

4. The Frankie Shop

The Frankie Shop, founded by native Française-turned-New Yorker Gaëlle Drevet, is a testament to the power of individuality in fashion. Bridging the Atlantic, this brand merges the effortless cool of Paris with the dynamic spirit of New York, offering a sartorial haven for women who defy prescribed fashion norms. Since opening its doors in New York’s Lower East Side in 2014, The Frankie Shop has carved out a niche for itself with its smart, oversized suits—a hallmark of its distinctive aesthetic that celebrates self-expression and the modern woman’s multifaceted lifestyle.

5. Rosaé Paris

Rosaé Paris is an adorable Parisian clothing brand founded by Claire Teixeira in 2019. The brand’s philosophy is to offer an “ideal wardrobe” that transcends the ephemeral trends of the moment, focusing instead on timeless pieces crafted from the finest fabrics with impeccable cuts and a commitment to eco-responsibility. The Parisian label uses upcycled fabrics from prestigious French and Italian luxury houses. The production process is carried out by exceptional European ateliers, with knits made in Portugal and leather goods produced in Spain and Portugal. The rest of the collection is created in a Romanian atelier that is certified by AMFORI BSCI.

6. Ba&sh

Ba&sh stands as a symbol of Parisian fashion, born from the lifelong friendship and shared sartorial vision of Barbara Boccara and Sharon Krief. In 2003, amidst the joys of motherhood, the duo embarked on a journey to materialize their dream wardrobe, a venture that would transcend their previous careers in PR and law. Ba&sh is the fruit of this partnership, a brand that encapsulates the essence of French chic with an effortless, sensual allure.

The collections of Ba&sh are the offspring of creative retreats, where Barbara, Sharon, and their design team converge in the idyllic setting of Ibiza to conceive garments that embody the dynamic lifestyle of modern women. With a commitment to comfort without compromising on femininity, Ba&sh designs speak to the real woman who juggles work, family, and travel, offering her a wardrobe that is both practical and enchanting. The Parisian label style includes foundational pieces like the classic blazer, the versatile midi dress, and the perfect pair of jeans complemented by iconic accessories.

7. Maje

Maje was founded in 1998 by Judith Milgrom. The brand’s name itself is an acronym that weaves together the initials of its founding members: M for Moyal, Judith’s maiden name; A for Alain, her brother and co-founder; J for Judith; and E for Evelyne, her sister and founder of the sister brand Sandro. Maje was born out of Judith’s vision to fill a void in the market, offering active women a sartorial choice that bridged the gap between luxury and mass-market fashion. The spirit of Maje is unapologetically feminine, blending understated glamour with a boldness that is evident in every piece. It’s a brand that captures the essence of Parisian chic with a twist.

8. Isabel Marant Étoile

Isabel Marant Étoile, the spirited offshoot of the esteemed Isabel Marant House, epitomizes the bohemian edge of Parisian fashion since its inception in 2000. This line extends Isabel Marant’s ethos of carefree and artsy elegance, offering a casual yet refined wardrobe that captures the essence of Marant’s unruly spirit. The brand has grown to become synonymous with the nonconformist and authentic approach to Parisian chic.

9. Rodier

Rodier Paris stands as a French fashion institution with a rich heritage dating back to 1852. Originating from the skillful hands of the Rodier family in Picardie, the brand quickly became synonymous with high-quality fabrics and innovative techniques, earning the admiration of haute couture icons like Chanel and Dior. Known for revolutionizing jersey and creating the sumptuously soft KASHA fabric, Rodier has been at the forefront of comfort and ease in women’s fashion. As pioneers of ready-to-wear, they have consistently captured the zeitgeist, from the twin-set craze of the ’60s to the dynamic knitwear of the ’80s. Today, Rodier continues to evolve, embracing digital innovation and a commitment to sustainability without losing sight of its timeless appeal and the promise of garments that not only endure in style but also in quality.

10. Soeur

Soeur (the French for “sister”) is a French ready-to-wear brand that epitomizes the effortless elegance and authenticity of French style. Founded in 2008 by sisters Domitille and Angélique Brion, Soeur is a celebration of femininity across generations, offering a wardrobe that transcends age and trends. The brand’s philosophy is rooted in creating delicate, accessible, and comfortable collections that feature timeless colors and borrow elements from menswear to enhance the feminine allure. Soeur’s commitment to sustainable fashion is reflected in its durable, versatile designs and dedication to cultivating lasting relationships with suppliers.

11. Kujten

Kujten stands as a vibrant testament to the shared passion for fashion and the exceptional material of cashmere by founders Carole Benaroya and Stéphanie Eriksson. Born from a friendship and a mutual appreciation for the luxurious fiber, Kujten reimagines cashmere wear with a focus on quality, color, and meticulous attention to detail. The brand’s name, inspired by Mongolia’s highest peak, reflects its commitment to craftsmanship and respect for the natural and human resources of its land of inspiration. Kujten offers a contemporary cashmere wardrobe that marries modern cuts with a palette of bold colors. With a dedication to making this luxurious material accessible, Kujten invites a wider audience to indulge in the comfort and elegance of cashmere.

12. Musier Paris

Musier Paris, founded by Anne-Laure Mais, is a brand that encapsulates the essence of Parisian chic with a commitment to sustainability. Launched in 2018, Musier Paris offers a wardrobe of iconic pieces, each with a unique twist that infuses classic femininity with modern vitality. The brand is tailored for the active woman who seeks both elegance and comfort in her daily attire, with the belief that confidence is best worn. At the heart of Musier’s ethos is a responsible approach to fashion. The collections are produced in limited editions, crafted from sustainable materials —most of the materials come from “dead stock” from leading European weavers and fashion houses— and made to order, reflecting a dedication to minimizing environmental impact and challenging the norms of overproduction.

13. Rouje

Rouje, founded by the quintessentially Parisian Jeanne Damas in 2016, is a brand that captures the essence of French femininity with a contemporary twist. It is a tribute to the understated allure of the women who grace the streets of Paris, whose natural elegance inspires the brand’s every design. The brand’s aesthetic is a harmonious blend of soft dresses and structured menswear-inspired jackets, floral patterns interwoven with sturdy knits, and vintage-inspired footwear that echoes the ’90s. The distinctive prints, ranging from reworked polka dots to bold graphics, set the tone for each collection, while the choice of materials underscores Rouje’s dedication to both comfort and sustainable fashion practices.

14. Martin Martin Paris

Martin Martin Paris, founded in 2019 by Capucine Martin, is a Parisian clothing brand that chooses timeless elegance over fleeting style. Founded on the principles of creating elegant, feminine, and timeless pieces, Martin Martin is a creator brand that offers an iconic wardrobe designed to dazzle both day and night. It is a celebration of women, their femininity, and the enduring elegance of Parisian style. The brand’s standout piece, the Constance—an ultra-chic, voluminous shirt dress—is now a staple in both long and short versions. By supporting French craftsmanship and repurposing fabric remnants, Martin Martin contributes to responsible fashion with a commitment to longevity and sustainability.

15. CQFD Paris

CQFD Paris emerges as a beacon of ethical and inclusive fashion, founded on the principles of transparency and responsibility by journalist-turned-designer Céline Bosquet. The brand is a response to the pressing need for a sustainable and socially conscious approach in one of the world’s most polluting industries. CQFD Paris challenges the status quo by embracing pre-order systems to mitigate overproduction and environmental damage while also championing inclusivity beyond conventional size ranges. The label’s commitment to quality and longevity in clothing is matched by its dedication to European craftsmanship and a digital-first, direct-to-consumer model that ensures luxury is defined by quality and integrity, not just price.

16. Marie Marot

Marie Marot is a Paris-based fashion label that epitomizes a seamless blend of simplicity and femininity. Founded by Marie Marot, who herself has been a shirt aficionado since her teen years, the Parisian brand takes its inspiration from a variety of fashion icons, including Carolyn Bessette, Lauren Hutton, and Charlotte Rampling. What sets the Marie Marot brand apart is its commitment to creating shirts that are slightly oversized, aiming to suit all body types, and become the cornerstone of any modern wardrobe. Crafted in premium materials like fine cotton and luxurious silks, these shirts are designed to be as versatile as they are stylish, easily transitioning “from the office to the seaside,” as the designer herself puts it.

17. Tara Jarmon

Tara Jarmon embodies the vibrant spirit of Paris with a distinctive “French chic with a twist.” Founded through the creative partnership of David Jarmon and the eponymous Canadian designer Tara, the brand has been crafting women’s ready-to-wear collections that radiate a feel-good energy and a fearless approach to fashion. For over three decades, Tara Jarmon has thrived in its Parisian atelier, where a dedicated team of designers brings to life the brand’s vision of sassy, feminine, and exquisitely detailed clothing. Each piece is a celebration of audacious colors, prints, and quality fabrics that capture the joy of life through a French lens. Tara Jarmon’s collections, predominantly produced in France and Europe, are a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and the timeless allure of French fashion.

18. Vanessa Bruno

Vanessa Bruno brings an air of effortless sophistication to the fashion scene, blending her multicultural heritage into a brand that epitomizes the essence of the modern, independent woman. Since its inception, the Paris-based label has been synonymous with a chic, relaxed aesthetic that speaks to the heart of the cosmopolitan woman. The iconic sequined Cabas Tote, a hallmark of the brand, encapsulates this spirit—versatile, stylish, and a staple for those who carry their world with a touch of glamour. Vanessa Bruno’s collections are a harmonious mix of comfort and romanticism, embodying the timeless Parisian allure that transcends borders and resonates with women in every corner of the globe.

19. Sessún

Sessùn is a French clothing brand that encapsulates the spirit of adventure and artisanal craftsmanship, born from the travels and cultural encounters of its founder, Emma François. Since its inception in 1998, Sessùn has been recognized for its unique blend of contemporary fashion with ancient traditions, earning accolades such as the Jeune Créateur prize. The brand is celebrated for its instinctive approach to design, prioritizing emotion and authenticity over fleeting trends. With a commitment to creating pieces that carry a sense of soul and story, Sessùn offers a wardrobe that is both timeless and deeply personal.

20. Éric Bompard

Eric Bompard is synonymous with the luxurious embrace of cashmere, a brand that stands as a testament to an unwavering quest for excellence and a deep-rooted passion for the finest fibers. Founded in 1985, the journey of Eric Bompard began with an expedition to the heart of Inner Mongolia, where the discovery of the Capra Hisca goat’s exquisite down set the stage for a cashmere revolution. The brand uses high-quality long, singular cashmere ply, ensuring each piece is as enduring as it is elegant. Eric Bompard’s designs are a celebration of subtlety and sophistication, offering a second skin that complements the wearer’s style with understated allure.

Et voilà! I hope this guide to the top 20 affordable luxury French clothing brands will inspire you. Please let me know in the comment below if you have any questions.