10 Essential French Wardrobe Pieces for Spring

Spring is here :)! The season has finally arrived in Bordeaux, bringing milder days and clear blue skies. This weekend, temperatures reached 16°C/60°F—perfect for shedding a few layers (but not too many just yet!). Today, I wanted to share a guide to the timeless essentials of the French wardrobe—you know, those key pieces that make transitioning into spring effortless and that you’ll keep reaching for all season long. While certain staples never go out of style—the iconic trench, classic jeans, a tailored blazer, or the beloved Breton stripe—they do evolve subtly with the trends.

Take the trench coat, for example this season, it’s shorter, with a straight or A-line cut, worn effortlessly open for a relaxed, undone look. The once-favorite straight-leg jeans are now looser, longer, and more fluid, creating an elongated, modern silhouette. The classic navy-and-white Breton top is getting a fresh update—not just in unexpected hues like soft yellow or blush pink but also in a chic polo-style version. And loafers, a perennial French favorite, are embracing a nautical-chic twist this spring, appearing in supple suede and warm shades of camel and beige.

Trends may shift, silhouettes may change, but the essence of the French wardrobe remains the same—timeless, modern, and always effortlessly chic. I hope this article helps you get your wardrobe ready for spring. And if spring hasn’t arrived where you are yet, may your wardrobe bring it a little sooner ;)!

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1. The Trench

This year, opt for a trench with a slightly shorter, looser fit—something with a subtle A-line shape, like Sézane’s Bobby Jacket or the Carter Jacket. For another effortlessly chic mid-season option with a touch of country flair, I’d recommend J.Crew’s Barn Jacket, the Hector Coat, the Barbour Light Sand Anise Jacket or the Mango Denim Parka. This spring, the choice is yours :)!

2. The Breton Stripe

This year, there are two chic ways to give the classic marinière a modern update. First, opt for a wool-and-cashmere blend sweater in soft blue with delicate yellow stripes or in cream with subtle lavender stripes—an effortless refresh of this timeless staple. Or, embrace the polo-style take on the navy-and-white Breton top, like J.Crew’s Mariner Polo T-Shirt in Stripe or this limited-edition version designed in collaboration with The New Yorker. Wear it layered over a light blue cotton poplin shirt for a polished yet relaxed look.

3. The Houndstooth Tailored Blazer

If you’re looking to switch things up from the classic navy blazer this season, I highly recommend this stunning Micro-Houndstooth Tailored Blazer from Mango. It pairs perfectly with your favorite white trousers, cinched at the waist with a brown or camel leather belt, and layered over a light blue or striped shirt. For an effortlessly chic touch, wear it under a trench coat draped casually over your shoulders. Finish the look with loafers and your favorite tote bag—très chic!

4. White Trousers

Nothing feels more effortlessly chic for spring than a great pair of white trousers! This season, I’ve found a few standout options: the Mid-Rise ‘90s Relaxed Jean from Banana Republic, the cropped wide-leg version from Polo Ralph Lauren, and the cult-favorite Camp-Pocket Wide-Leg Pant from J.Crew. For a more budget-friendly alternative, consider the Catherine Culotte Jeans from Mango or H&M’s High-Rise Wide-Cut Jeans. Pair them with your Breton stripe sweater (or the polo version), your trench, and loafers for a spring look très Français.

5. Wide-Leg Jeans

Wear them on repeat this spring—they pair effortlessly with both wardrobe staples and statement pieces! This is hands down my favorite jean silhouette, as it falls beautifully over flat shoes like loafers and sneakers. I have several pairs in my wardrobe from Massimo Dutti, including the Mid-Rise Wide-Leg Full-Length Jeans and the Wide-Fit Mid-Rise Jeans in medium blue and light blue (which I’ve just added to my wishlist!). If you prefer a relaxed fit that isn’t too loose, I highly recommend the Mid-Rise ‘90s Relaxed Jean from Banana Republic—it’s absolutely perfect!

6. The Little Tweed Jacket

I love wearing a little tweed jacket in spring—it’s truly a wardrobe essential as soon as the warmer days arrive! This season, this timeless, Chanel-inspired piece comes not only in classic white but also in beautiful shades of pink. I’ve found a few gorgeous options for you, like the Cream Tweed Sommers Jacket from Tuckernuck, the Tweed Jacket with Contrast Trims in soft pink from Mango, and this stunning all-pink version. There’s also the Tweed Lady Jacket from J.Crew in the prettiest baby pink. This spring, you’ll be spoiled for choice :)!

7. Ballet Flats

This season, ballet flats retain their ultra-classic, timeless shape but are elevated with delicate details that make all the difference—think mesh adorned with shimmering embellishments or floral embroidery, soft suede, or woven gold designs. I’m especially loving the Champagne Woven Nina Flats from Tuckernuck, as well as the Nude Glitter Mesh Nina Flats—both effortlessly chic and perfect for spring!

8. The Straw Bag

I absolutely love this style of bag—it’s the ultimate symbol of spring, summer, and sunshine! Pick one based on what you need to carry and how you plan to use it—whether as a spacious tote or a chic handbag. Of course, this season marks the return of Sézane’s iconic Justine Basket—a cult favorite since its launch years ago. But if you’re after something a little more unique, I highly recommend the stunning Balzac Paris Sac Rodin in raffia and camel (I just ordered it myself, couldn’t resist!), the beautifully woven Panier Ori in natural and cognac, or the Panier Auguste in raffia and navy—a perfectly nautical-chic choice for that effortless French Riviera look.

9. Loafers

As I mentioned earlier, this spring is the perfect time to swap your classic black leather loafers for suede styles in warm camel or beige—boat shoe-inspired for a distinctly nautical-chic look. This season, I’m loving the Navarre Penny Loafers in a rich cognac shade, along with The Boat Shoe from Everlane and this très chic nautical pair from Rothy’s.

10. The Suede Bag

With warmer days ahead, spring is the perfect time to embrace suede. Right now, it’s everywhere—cropped jackets, shoes, belts, and most notably, bags! A suede tote or handbag instantly adds a touch of understated chic to even the simplest outfits (think of the perfect white tee-and-jeans combo we all love). There are plenty of options at different price points, like this chic Suede Shopper Bag from Mango, the oversized Suede Bucket Bag from Madewell, or the effortlessly elegant New York Midi Leather-Trimmed Suede Tote from Demellier.