5 Brands That French Girls Know and American Girls Don't—Until Now

When you think of French fashion, images of mysterious haute couture houses and boutique-lined Parisian avenues likely come to mind. And while that's fine and dandy, there also happens to be an equally inspiring amount of emerging brands cropping up in Paris that's parfait for anyone who likes to stay up to date on buzzworthy designer names.

Ahead, we've rounded up five French labels that are on fire right now. There's a mix of ready-to-wear pieces, bags, and footwear that's sure to leave you feeling inspired. Keep scrolling to get the lowdown on these under-the-radar brands and shop our favorite picks to add an element of je ne sais quoi to your wardrobe this season.

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The Brand: Elleme
(Image credit: @elleme)

Founder Jingjing Fan's collection of handbags is the perfect combination of modern design and timeless craftsmanship. Her brand is based in the Marais neighborhood in Paris and is poised to be the next big bag obsession.

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(Image credit: @elleme)

Head to Elleme if unique textures and silhouettes are a priority of yours.

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The Brand: LE:APT
(Image credit: @le.apt)

If your wardrobe errs on the minimalist side, LE:APT is worth taking note of. The Parisian online store stocks up on independent brands that are sophisticated, affordable, and incredibly versatile.

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(Image credit: @le.apt)

Peruse the brand's outerwear assortment—it's a can't-miss.

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The Brand: Aeryne
(Image credit: @aeryne_paris)

"Inspired by the effortless simplicity of Scandinavian style and the confident individualism of Paris," Aeryne has swiftly become a fashion-editor favorite brand. Stock up on the label's bold pieces to help your wardrobe shine.

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(Image credit: @aeryne_paris)

Aeryne is chock-full of splashy silhouettes, bold colors, and fun embellishments.

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The Brand: Nomasei
(Image credit: @nomasei_official)

Founded by two Chloé veterans, this footwear label hailing from Paris is a seasonless assortment of boots, heels, and flats that elevate your outfit without overpowering it.

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(Image credit: @nomasei_official)

Be sure to read Nomasei's manifesto regarding sustainability.

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The Brand: Miræ
(Image credit: @miraeparis)

It's been called the "French Ganni"—and understandably so. The label is ideal for anyone who wants to add something fun and flattering to their wardrobe. Mirae releases new pieces about every two months, with about seven collections a year. 

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(Image credit: @miraeparis)

If you're perpetually on the hunt for a new going-out top or party dress, Mirae should be in your bookmarks folder.

And now, 33 French fashion brands every girl should know about.

Nicole Kliest
Freelance Contributor

Nicole Kliest is a freelance writer and editor based in New York City who focuses on fashion, travel, food, wine, and pretty much anything else that's amusing to write about. After graduating from Pepperdine University with a bachelor's in journalism and creative writing, she started her career back in 2010 as Who What Wear's photo editor and throughout the last decade has contributed to publications including Fashionista, Harper's Bazaar, Elle, The Zoe Report, PopSugar, Fodor's Travel, and several others. She also copywrites and has worked with clients such as Frame, Sea, 3x1, Intelligentsia, and others to develop brand voices through storytelling and creative marketing. She's very passionate about the ways we can improve our sustainability efforts in the fashion industry as well as cultivating content that's diverse and inclusive of all people. When she's not checking out the latest restaurant opening in her West Village neighborhood or riding her bicycle along the West Side Highway, she can be found scheming her next trip somewhere around the world. (Up next is Vienna.)