My Must-Have Pieces for a Timeless French Wardrobe

What better way to start the year than with an article dedicated to the essentials of French style for your wardrobe :)? This year, the blog is celebrating its 7th anniversary, and I must admit that my personal style, while undeniably French, has evolved significantly over the years. I’ve transitioned from a very classic, structured, and formal look (dare I say quintessentially Parisian?) to a much more eclectic style—a blend of preppy Parisian influences, boho-chic vibes, minimalism, and even touches of masculine tailoring.

My wardrobe’s color palette has shifted as well. Once dominated by the timeless hues of black, white, navy, and beige, it now embraces softer, warmer tones like light blue, cream, camel, burgundy, terracotta, and khaki. It just goes to show that nothing is set in stone, and everything—even within the broad spectrum of French style—can evolve. In fact, French style encompasses far more variety than many realize: the boho-chic flair of Isabel Marant, the casual Parisian elegance of Sézane, the minimalist approach of Soeur Paris, or the feminine romanticism of Rouje.

So, I thought, why not try to create a list of what I believe are the essentials of a French-style wardrobe? These are pieces that, through their versatility, transcend seasons and adapt seamlessly to different aesthetics—whether you lean toward preppy Parisian or minimalist chic. If, at the start of this year, you feel the urge to make a fresh start with your wardrobe—like a new haircut to mark a new chapter—this article is for you! I hope you find it helpful and that it guides you through the fascinating world of French style :).

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This post is not sponsored. I only share what I truly love. Some links are affiliate, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Merci!

1. A Modern-Cut Trench Coat

A trench coat is the ultimate outerwear piece, no matter your outfit! It’s the perfect mid-season coat—ideal for layering over cashmere or cozy wool sweaters as you transition out of winter or into autumn. For a more contemporary look, opt for an oversized cut, like the Clyde trench from Sézane. This season, I’m also loving the Carter and Bobby styles. Slightly shorter, they’re perfect if you’re petite!

2. A Little Black Dress for Every Occasion

I believe the little black dress—whether short or long—is an enduring classic! Last year, I bought this stunning black tweed dress with a jeweled collar from Sandro, which I adore and even wore to a wedding. This year, I’ve fallen for this gorgeous black knit dress adorned with pearls that I find absolutely exquisite. In the same spirit, the Harper dress, with its elegant gold buttons, is another perfect option. Wear your little black dress for any occasion—pair it with sheer black tights (or even white ones), ballet flats, loafers, or heels. The possibilities are endless!

3. A Timeless Blazer

The blazer is truly the pièce de résistance of the Parisian (and French) wardrobe. Personally, I love pairing my blazers (yes, I adore them so much that I have several in my collection!) with wardrobe basics to balance out their formal and structured vibe. Think white T-shirts, turtlenecks (like this Jacob jumper that I adore), or cozy knits and lightweight turtleneck sweaters.

To make your blazers last and remain versatile, opt for a classic straight cut—not too oversized or too fitted—and stick to simple colors and patterns. I highly recommend this double-breasted blazer from Sandro, which I bought years ago and still wear regularly, as well as the beautiful Marceau chestnut jacket by Balzac Paris. I recently received the Marceau jacket, made from 100% wool, and I absolutely love it! I typically wear a size 38 but opted for a size 36, as the sleeves are wide enough to layer a chunky knit underneath (like the Nattie cardigan from Sézane, which I also bought and have been loving this winter). For a more luxurious option, consider brands like Max Mara or Blazé Milano.

4. A Tweed Jacket

Worn like a blazer with jeans or even black leather pants, a tweed jacket is the perfect piece to add a chic touch to any outfit! Last year, I purchased a lovely cream tweed jacket from Sandro, which is quite similar to this lovely Isabelle lady jacket from J.Crew. I love wearing it as soon as the warmer days arrive. Another great option is the beautiful and iconic Meredith jacket by Ba&sh.

5. A Classic, Well-Tailored Shirt

Whether it’s white, light blue, or striped, in crisp cotton poplin or elegant silk, the shirt is a wardrobe essential (French or not). A few years ago, I gravitated toward oversized styles, but over the past year, I’ve found myself preferring shirts with a more classic, straight cut. Tuck it into trousers or jeans, and finish the look with a simple belt for an effortlessly chic touch (I recently bought this gorgeous burgundy leather belt from Sandro that I absolutely love). This season, I fell in love with this beautiful light blue striped poplin shirt—my favorite style—from Frame + Ritz Paris, which also comes in a simpler version without the embroidered logo.

6. A Versatile and Comfortable Pair of Jeans

For me, the perfect pair of jeans has to be comfortable above all else :). Lately, I’ve been gravitating toward slightly looser fits—mid-rise wide-leg jeans that drape beautifully over sneakers, loafers, or ballet flats while elongating the silhouette. I’m also a big fan of cropped straight-leg jeans, which are perfect for showing off a great pair of ankle boots.

I’m not one to splurge on jeans, and Massimo Dutti has some of my favorites (I own several pairs, including this one I loved so much I bought also in blue). Recently, I picked up this pair from Ba&sh during a sale, and I couldn’t be happier with them. Agolde is another brand worth mentioning for its beautiful jeans, like this Fran low-rise straight-leg style.

7. A Chic and Practical Handbag

Just as a pair of jeans needs to be comfortable, a handbag must first and foremost be practical! I often alternate between a small, structured crossbody bag—like a vintage Céline box bag with the Horse Carriage clasp that I purchased a few years ago and adore—and a more spacious tote bag for carrying over the shoulder. I’m a big fan of handbags from the French brand Le Tanneur, especially the Émilie model, which is absolutely stunning and feels like a true treasure, and the chic Elena tote. This season, I also love bohemian-inspired bags reminiscent of the Chanel 22, such as the camel suede June Tote from Ba&sh and the stunning Amaïa bag in burgundy from Balzac Paris.

8. A Pair of Chic Loafers

If I had to choose just one style of flat shoes, it would undoubtedly be loafers! I love this slightly masculine-inspired footwear. A few years ago, I invested in a pair of chunky loafers from the Italian brand Tod’s, which I adore and still wear regularly. In a similar vein, I’m a fan of these stunning loafers from Maje and these preppy-chic Les Valentins from Rosaé Paris. This season, I’m particularly drawn to these brogues with fringed details, which have a British-chic vibe—like these Joey loafers that embody this style perfectly.