Yep, These French-Girl Basics Are Sitting at Nordstrom Right Now
If there’s one thing that is pretty much proven at this point, it’s that French women really know what they’re doing when it comes to their outfits and every fashion piece they have in their closets. In my opinion, they especially shine when it comes to those classic basics that everyone should have in their wardrobes—and they truly know how to wear them well. So what are the basics French women stand behind and how do they style them?
Ahead, I’m breaking down the French basics you’ll spot in every Parisian’s wardrobe, from classic jeans to everyday jewelry to the "grandma” piece Parisians love. Yep, these are the versatile pieces you’ve probably been planning to add to your closet, if you haven’t already, that make a repeat appearance in some of the most stylish outfits around. Scroll down to see the ultimate French-girl basics, and shop my edit.
Slip Dresses
Yep, slip dresses are the ultimate wear-anytime piece because of their ability to be dressed up or dressed down. And honestly, who doesn't want to slip into a silky satin dress?
Shop slip dresses:
Gold Jewelry
There really isn't anything quite as timeless as gold jewelry—something French girls are clearly tuned into. From hoop earrings to necklaces for layering, you'll find these in any Parisian's wardrobe.
Shop gold jewlery:
Leggings
Whether you opt for of-the-moment slit leggings or a classic version, there's one thing that's for certain—black leggings are a mainstay in the French-girl wardrobe.
Shop leggings:
Cardigans
While cardigans may be trending right now, they've always been a French-girl basic. Consider this "grandma" trend the ultimate cool-meets-cozy piece.
Shop cardigans:
Straight-Leg Jeans
If there's one thing I've learned from French girls, it's that straight-leg jeans are the one style to buy above any others. They truly never go out of style.
Shop straight-leg jeans:
Button-Down Tops
The best thing about a button-down top? It seriously goes with anything. Sure, jeans are a solid choice, but gym shorts might even be one step cooler.
Shop button-down tops:
Next, shop the fashion pieces I have my eye on right now.
Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear with over a decade of experience in fashion, editorial, and publishing. She oversees luxury content and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. She also contributes to podcast recordings, social media, and branded content initiatives. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, MyTheresa, and Luisa Via Roma, and rising designers such as Refine and Tove, and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Before Who What Wear, Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on assistant styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.
-
Bring on the Compliments—30 Dresses That Are on Sale and Ready to Turn Heads
So many gems, so little time.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
I'm a Fashion Editor—I Reach For These 2 Pieces When I Don't Know What to Wear
Ready in 10 minutes or less.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
I Want an Elegant Spring Wardrobe—These 32 Nordstrom Finds Have My Attention
Elevated finds inside.
By Grace O'Connell Joshua
-
I'm Already Prepping My Summer Wardrobe—I Only Have Eyes for These Elegant Nordstrom Items
Plus, they're all $150 and under.
By Ana Escalante
-
Nordstrom Shoppers Lose It Over This Affordable Shoe Brand—Shop the Best Pairs
Click if you like trendy shoes.
By Allyson Payer
-
French Women Are Wearing Socks With These Classic Shoe Styles This Spring
Chic as always.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
What to Buy From Nordstrom If Your Vibe Is Elegant But Your Budget Is $100
If that's not a good sales pitch, I don't know what is.
By Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour
-
The Dress Edit: 16 Chic Nordstrom Picks for Every Spring Occasion
Sponsor Content Created With Nordstrom
By Raina Mendonça