French style never goes out of fashion and we've found the French clothing brands that'll upgrade your closet in an instant.
We love British clothing brands, but there's something about the way French women dress that makes everyone want to follow suit. So much so, if you Google 'how to dress like...' the first option to come up is 'like a French woman'. And this is no surprise considering they possess the power to look effortlessly chic at all times. To nail this look, you'll want to curate a capsule wardrobe of staple pieces that don't rely on fashion trends and that will always look amazing. Classic pieces that never go out of style and feel timeless, such as Breton tops and the best blazers for women to great skinny jeans and the best leather jackets.
And while French women's must admired style has a lot to do with the pieces they choose, French clothing brands also play a starring role in creating one of the most lusted after styles. Meaning, if you know where to shop, you too can have enviable French style. From the best midi dresses at destination label Rouje, to La Redoute for our best summer outfits for work and the impeccable label Sézane for some of the best cashmere sweaters. These are the French clothing brands that will inject instant chic into your closet.
The best French clothing brands chosen by our fashion editors
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1. Ba&sh
If you're looking for gorgeous exclusive prints, daytime dresses and blouses that'll still make a statement and timeless knitwear, Ba&sh will be one of the best French clothing brands for you. Made for women, by women, the label created in 2003 isn't a new brand but it's one that's getting more popular every season thanks to its wearable designs and dedicated Instagram following.
Fashion editor's picks...
RRP: $325 / £260 | Sizes: XS-L | A striped sweater is both directional and timeless, so investing in the best sweaters is worth it. You can style this iteration with everything from a slip skirt and chunky sandals to straight-leg jeans and your best white trainers.
RRP: $230 / £165 | Sizes: XS-L | Wondering what is boho style and how to execute it? This blouse will bring bohemian style to your everyday. It's made partly from TENCEL Lyocell, a fabric made from wood pulp sourced from sustainably-managed forests.
RRP: $400 / £300 | Sizes: S-XL | Featuring cropped sleeves and a V-neck, this dress is universally flattering. Its flowy structure will keep you feeling cool during the summer months, but is also just the right thickness for layering when fall comes around.
2. Claudie Pierlot
Created in the '80s, Claudie Pierlot launched her designer label 'for the women of Paris' and the brand soon became a worldwide hit and it's no surprise. With elegant cuts, timeless silhouettes and actually wearable designs that won't require you to take out a loan, Claudie Pierlot is trend-led while also being conscious of the environment, with directional pieces that can be love and worn forever.
Fashion editor's picks...
RRP: $240 / £179 | Sizes: US: 2-10 / UK: 6-14 | These mid-wash jeans straddle the line between smart and casual. Featuring a silhouette flattering straight-leg cut, team with a white tee and draw attention to your waist with one of the best designer belts.
RRP: $392 / £329 | Sizes: US: 2-8 / UK: 6-12 | Summer is all about finding the best dresses. This comfortable flouncy dress with an elegant open back will look just as good with your best sandals as it will with heels for those dressy summer evenings.
RRP: £429 / $577 | Sizes: US: 2-10 / UK: 6-14 | Part of the brand's 'Claudie Cares' collection, this jacket is a wardrobe essential. Made from recycled materials, the slightly cropped style pairs well with a high-waisted maxi skirt or linen trousers.
3. La Redoute
Looking for new workwear or want to update your existing wardrobe with key pieces? La Redoute is the French equivalent to brands like Zara or Mango and is a go-to for everyday styles along with items you can dress up for after-dark too. It also has the best homeware so you can update your interiors at the same time.
Fashion editor's picks...
RRP: $235 / £150 | Sizes: US: 2-16 / UK: 6-20 | La Redoute is the place to go for staple, timeless and classic outerwear that won't cost the earth. From trench coats to this checked number, there's a plethora to choose from that will make you look instantly trendy.
RRP: $60 / £50 | Sizes: S-XXL | Protect yourself from those chilly summer evenings with this ballet wrap cardigan made from a wool mix. With a directional blouson sleeve and deep cuff design, the deep grey color is delightfully easy to style, too.
RRP: $102 / £68 | Sizes: US: 2-16 / UK: 6-20 | A blazer is a total staple piece and if you've wondered how to style a blazer, they pretty much go with everything. Keep it simple by pairing with the best white T-shirt, straight-leg trousers and either a heeled mule.
4. Musier Paris
Founded in 2018 by French style influencer @annelauremais, with 656,000 followers or her own the Musier Paris Instagram account soon gained a whole host of loyal followers who knew the brand would be super chic and wanted to buy into the influencer's brand. Now, the label has become a cult French fashion label thanks to its knitted dresses, cool coats and tops with elegant necklines.
Fashion editor's picks...
RRP: $217.41 / £162 | Sizes: XS-XL | Never underestimate the power of a great red dress. This midi style with a summer-ready open back detail will look just as good dressed up for a party, as it will for a day at the beach.
RRP: $167 / £140 | Sizes: XS-XL | The tie-up details really make this casual shirt stand out from the crowd. Super lightweight, in a classic bold stripe print, this will pair well as part of a white jeans outfit this summer.
RRP: $308.96 / £230 | Sizes: XS-XL | While the Burberry trench coat is British, French women are known for having a penchant for the classic style too. This oversized shape will add a laid-back edge to any outfit.
5. Rouje
Founded by Parisian style icon Jeanne Damas in 2016, the label became an instant success, as women clamoured to get a slice of her wardrobe. From could-be-vintage printed midi skirts to tea dresses and relaxed knitwear, the brand has everything to add a feminine feel to French dressing. The clothes might be understated, but you'll feel like a star from one of Netflix's best French TV shows in them.
Fashion editor's picks...
RRP: $191 / £145 | Sizes: US: 2-12 / UK: 6-16 | With a nostalgic, retro feel, this mustard yellow skirt with button front detailing is ideal for hourglass body shapes. Highlighting a waist, the front fastening will elongate your silhouette, while a tucked in top shows off curves.
RRP: $594 / £495 | Sizes: US: 2-10 / UK: 6-14 | With a utilitarian feel, this cream leather coat offers a stylish finish to fall fashion looks. The deep pockets make it ideal for everyday, while the belted waist ensures your silhouette isn't lost in this androgynous style.
RRP: $255 / £195 | Sizes: US: 2-10 UK: 6-14 | Cardigans have seen a big resurgence in 2022, thanks to their styling versatility. For fall 2022 fashion trends, it's all about unique collars, gemstone buttons and vintage-inspired styles, just like this piece.
6. Sézane
Parisian brand Sézane is renowned for its distinctive luxury knitwear. Founded in 2013, the label aimed to create pieces with a designer feel but without the hefty price tag. Now, the French brand is loved worldwide (especially by London women), and has even been worn by the Duchess of Cambridge - so if you're a fan of the Duchess, Sézane is just one of several places to shop Kate Middleton's dresses.
Fashion editor's picks...
RRP: $140 / £105 | Sizes: XXS-XXXL | This mohair wool jumper with long sleeves is constructed with a beaded rib knit, for added comfort. The berry color is universally flattering, making it the ideal transitional shade as we look towards fall, it teams well with neutrals too.
RRP: $120 / £100 | Sizes: US: 2-14 / UK: 6-18 | Crafted from 100% organic materials, this frilly design also comes in cream and blue. A pretty shirt for everyday or special occasions, it will add a touch of nostalgia to full A-line skirts, or offer a feminine finish to your best jeans.
RRP: $130 / £110 | Sizes: XS-XXL | An understated design, this midi dress features a low-cut back - a great style when deciding what to wear in the heat. It also comes in a bright floral print that would make one of the best bridesmaid dresses for a summer wedding.
7. The Frankie Shop
If you haven't heard of The Frankie Shop, then you need to. Loved by fashion insiders, the label was founded by a French journalist. With a store in Paris and NYC, the brand is a cross between the two leading fashion cities. The minimalist, fuss-free designs are so popular, some styles (including the recent khaki quilted coat) sell out almost immediately. With other much-loved labels including Nanushka, Samsøe and Samsøe, Ganni and Otiumberg on-site, you're bound to find something to add to your forever style essentials list.
Fashion editor's picks...
RRP: $159 / £118 | Sizes: XS-L | There's so much to love about this sweatshirt - from the slouchy shape and dropped shoulders to the fact that the color is called Martini olive! But most of all we love its versatility. Cool with jeans or smart trousers, you can also wear it with a chic midi skirt.
RRP: $124 / £92 | Sizes: S-L | Casual tailoring at its finest, these baby blue retro trousers will look fab paired with a camsiole or white tee in the day. For evening, try them out with a small heel and a chiffon, ruffled shirt in a neutral hue for a smart and stylish look that evokes that Parisian feel.
RRP: $435 / £323 | Sizes: One size | Bring some brightness to your outerwear collection with this pastel yellow coat. A wrap coat offers an instantly nonchalant feel to any look - ideal for recreating French style. A look that will never date, it will help you transition into fall with ease.
The best French clothing brands at a glance
- Ba&sh - best for nice tops to go with jeans from $87 / £65
- Claudie Pierlot - best for eco-friendly denim from $93 / £69
- La Redoute - best for wardrobe staples and workwear from $14 / £10
- Musier Paris- best for gorgeous outerwear and Instagram-loved dresses from $79 / £59
- Rouje- best for printed dresses and tops from $34 / £25
- Sézane - best for good quality knitwear and retro denim from $54 / £40
- The Frankie Shop - best for loungewear and oversized tailoring from $55 / £40
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