What do French women know that we don’t?
A trench coat
This coat has become a classic since its debut in the 1920s and is one of the best pieces for staying fashionable throughout the seasons. I can’t tell you how many coats I have that are too bulky, too heavy, or just plain not warm enough. But this little beauty solves all those problems in one go. It’s light enough to wear on warmer days, but also heavy enough to keep me warm when it’s freezing out. Plus, it looks chic no matter what I pair it with.
When you’re learning about a different culture, one of the best ways to do it is by following along on Instagram and seeing what the people from that culture share with their followers. That’s exactly what I did when I was learning about French women, and I learned that their style seemed pretty similar to what was popular in the United States at the time. With many similarities, though, there are also some French girl wardrobe staples that might surprise you as they differ quite dramatically from what American girls usually wear. Keep reading to discover eight items that French girls love that you might not expect them to love!
Cropped pants or trousers
Cropped trousers are the perfect antidote to boring trousers: they’re flattering, comfortable, and easy to dress up or down. They’re also a good investment because you can wear them for years without feeling outdated.
A peacoat
If you’re looking for a chic, feminine jacket that can go with everything from skirts to jeans, this is the one. It’s a great investment piece that will last for years and never go out of style. Plus, it’s a classic navy color, so it’ll work all year round!
Leather gloves
I honestly never thought I would get much use out of a pair of leather gloves, but then I read that the chic French girls like to wear them in the winter time. I picked up a pair at the store and they’ve been my go-to ever since. They are perfect for those colder days when you want to look cute and still stay warm!
Wristlet bags
A wristlet is the perfect accessory for a night on the town. They’re small enough to fit inside your handbag, but big enough to hold all of your necessities – cash, credit cards, keys, and phone. Plus, they look adorable with any outfit!
A striped turtleneck sweater
This season, the striped turtleneck sweater is a must-have. It’s been seen on the runways of Saint Laurent, Prada and Kenzo – not to mention bloggers like Chiara Ferragni. The style can easily be dressed up or down, and looks great with just about anything in your closet. Plus, it’s a great way to beat the cold this winter!
Knee socks
Although knee socks are generally viewed as a basic wardrobe staple in the U.S., they are anything but basic in France. They have been embraced by both men and women, worn as everyday attire with cropped trousers or as party wear with little black dresses. The chicest design is always one that matches the pattern of the hemline or skirt, for an extra feminine touch!
Thigh-high boots
These boots are typically reserved for the colder months, but when paired with short skirts, cropped pants and booties, they can be worn year-round. They’re a must have for those who have a love affair with leather. They come in a variety of styles from pointed toe to round toe and pointy to square toe. Depending on your personal style, there’s something for everyone!
