As a shopping editor, you might assume I rarely need to look elsewhere for style inspiration. After all, I spend my days combing through new-in sections, spotting emerging trends and endlessly scrolling through the wardrobes of fashion’s chicest women. But when it comes to knowing what actually looks elegant in real life, there’s one person I always trust: my French best friend.
You know those people who can walk into a room in the simplest outfit and somehow look impossibly chic? Whether it’s a perfectly cut cardigan, a pair of jeans that fit as though they were made for her or beautifully worn-in leather flats, she has an effortless way of making even the most understated pieces feel special. So, when we went shopping together over the weekend, I paid close attention to everything she gravitated towards.
Unsurprisingly, her picks didn’t disappoint. Think beautifully cut linen from COS, woven leather bags, effortless dresses, romantic blouses and the chicest heeled ballet flats from Massimo Dutti. If you’re looking to inject a little French-girl polish into your wardrobe this summer, keep scrolling to shop everything on mine and my French best friend’s wish-list.
Shop The Best Chic French Buys
The viral Zara shirt, naturally, made it into my basket. The frog fastenings instantly elevate this linen shirt, making it feel far more elevated than your average button-down.
Every great summer wardrobe starts with a pair of linen trousers, and this navy pair feels especially polished.
Minimal, timeless and beautifully crafted.
A beautiful dress that has celebrity fan-base—and for good reason.
While Bermuda shorts may not naturally give French-girl vibes, the linen helps them take new form.
Proof that a simple black dress never goes out of style.
Equal parts ballet flat and kitten heel, these are the elegant in-between shoes I’ll be relying on as we head towards autumn.
A lightweight cardigan is one of the hardest-working pieces in any wardrobe.
Quiet luxury at its finest.
The kind of pretty blouse that instantly makes jeans feel more put together.
If there’s one trouser fashion people consistently rave about, it’s the Olina. Relaxed, lightweight and endlessly versatile, it’s easy to see why.
Easy, elegant and endlessly wearable, this is the sort of dress that requires little more than simple sandals and gold jewellery.
Minimal flip-flops, but elevated.
Delicate embroidery transforms this crisp cotton shirt into something that feels distinctly romantic.
A dream investment, The Row’s best-selling Agnes back is finally back in stock.
This looks so expensive.
If you buy one skirt this summer, make it this one.
A timeless everyday bag you’ll use year-round.
A cigarette jean is so inherently French, and Agolde’s 90s style is as good as it gets.
Loved by Pippa Middleton herself, the Naira is elegant enough for summer weddings yet effortless enough for holidays.
Simple, minimalist and comfy, what more could you need from a pair of flip-flops?
A beautifully fitted knit top that feels effortlessly sophisticated.