We spend the whole year admiring French style, but something about the summer months brings out the effortless, understated qualities we love. A smart shoe choice, a perfectly fitting pair of denim shorts or a basket bag slung casually over a forearm—these are all seemingly small details which, when working in tandem, create that je ne sais quoi us non-Parisians swoon over.
But when analysing enviable French outfits more closely—a pastime the whole Who What Wear team enjoys—it becomes clear that all of these looks have something in common: they’re deceptively simple. No fussy accessories, no jarring colour combinations and no attention-grabbing trends. Just quietly impactful pairings of elegant wardrobe staples.
It takes most of us time to cultivate this intuitive understanding of how to assemble a carefree style identity, and seemingly it’s something French women are born with. But thankfully, we have a wealth of Instagram outfits to pull inspiration from. Cue five chic, streamlined looks from our favourite French influencers that are easy to re-create this summer.
1. Blue Shirt + Denim Shorts + Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: A cotton button-down and jeans is an easy and polished formula whatever season you’re dressing for, but on warm days, a pair of shorts feels far more appropriate.
Shop the look:
REISS
Jenny Cotton Poplin Shirt
£98
This shade of blue is so versatile—wear it with neutrals, denim or brighter hues.
NILI LOTAN
Russel Frayed Denim Shorts
£390
This longer length is so on-trend this season.
MANGO
Natural Fibre Carrycot Bag
£46
Mango’s current bag selection is filled with winners like this.
ZARA
Leather Flat Lace Up Sandals
£36
Completely classic.
2. Bandeau Top + Silk Scarf + Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: That’s right, French women will happily wear top-to-toe black even during the sunniest months of the year—and look incredibly chic doing it. If they can pull it off, you can too.
Shop the look:
COS
The Sculpted Bandeau
£155
It might be slightly pricey for COS (it’s part of the ‘Atelier’ collection) but you’ll get infinite wear out of this elegant piece.
VALENTINO GARAVANI
Printed Silk-Twill Scarf
£180
A sleek pop of colour.
& OTHER STORIES
Tailored High Waist Trousers
£85
Wear these to the office, at the weekend and beyond.
THE ROW
Bare Leather Sandals
£860
The Row’s sandals are unmatched. Expect these to sell out pronto.
3. Gingham Dress + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Sometimes it’s as simple as just slipping on a pretty dress, some comfortable flats and stepping out onto the streets of Paris… or Nice… or London.
Shop the look:
NOBODYS CHILD
Black Gingham Smock Joy Midi Dress
£65
You’ll pull this dress out for many summers to come.
MISSOMA
Classic Large Hoop Earrings | 18ct Gold Vermeil
£135
Everyday earrings.
COS
Leather-Trimmed Mesh Ballet Flats
£110
Aren’t these designer-looking flats divine?
4. Striped Shirt + Linen Trousers + Red Accent
Style Notes: When it comes to injecting colour into your summer rotation, do it in French fashion with a bright siren red. Paired with neutrals, this is a look all our favourite Gallic influencers have got behind.
Shop the look:
NA-KD
Oversized Long Sleeve Cotton Shirt
£45
This lightweight layer will come in handy on slightly chilly days.
PILCRO AND THE LETTERPRESS
Pilcro Ribbed One-Shoulder Top
£30
An elevated take on the basic tank top.
MIU MIU
Imber Rectangular Sunglasses
£280
Just the kind of effortlessly chic accessory French women swear by.
COS
Wide-Leg Linen Drawstring Trousers
£65
This whole set is just waiting to be packed for a beach getaway.
5. Linen Suiting + Mesh Flats
Style Notes: Suiting, but make it summer-appropriate. It’s no secret that Parisians love wearing linen in the warmer months, and opting for tailored pieces is a tried-and-tested way to make this casual fabrication feel smarter.
Shop the look:
HOUSEOFDAGMAR
Classic Linen Blazer
£490
Style this with jeans for a more casual look, or toss it on over a floral sundress.
HOUSE OF DAGMAR
Tailored Shorts
£280
These shorts won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but I’m obsessed.
& OTHER STORIES
Leather-Trimmed Mesh Ballet Flats
£110
I can’t believe these are still in stock. Not for long, I predict.
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