Channel your inner Parisian this spring — these picks make it easy to get the look. (Banana Republic, Gap, Old Navy, Zappos)
Life is full of little joys, like getting dressed on that first sunny spring day after a long, chilly winter. With spring finally here, I naturally want to refresh my wardrobe with new cute pieces. I mean, I do shop for a living, so it's only fitting! And while there's a bevy of new trends I want to try out, one of my favorite activities at the start of any new season is diving into the fashion scene of my favorite city: Paris! There's just something about how French women pull off effortless chic style, no matter what the weather is like.
While I'd love to be wandering along the Champs-Élysées soaking up all that street style in person, for now, I'll settle for scrolling through Instagram to get my inspiration fix. Lately, I've noticed fabulous pieces popping up among my favorite French influencers. Think straight-leg jeans, classic trench coats and stylish Mary Jane flats. Below you'll find influencers showcasing the best — and most accessible — basics of the season. Très bien!
It doesn't get much more classic than a pair of well-made straight-leg jeans. They're a timeless staple that flatters almost every body type, and with so many washes available, you can rock a different shade every day of the week. It's no wonder that this cut is the go-to denim style in Paris. Opt for a high-waisted option to elongate your figure or cropped style to show off your killer shoe collection.
Parisian women prove time and again that a classic cardigan is the ultimate style chameleon. If you only think of it as a stuffy, librarian-chic layering piece, you're missing out. Button one up and belt it for a tailored look, leave it open over a simple tee for a casually elegant style or drape it over your shoulders for a preppy touch. A well-made cardi is like a sartorial passport to French flair; the only limitation is how creative you want to get with it.
Rainy spring days are here, so it makes sense Parisians are busting out their trench coats. Not only do these timeless pieces instantly elevate an outfit, they're ideal for transitional weather. And when the temperatures warm up, they make a fantastic lightweight option to toss over a cute spring dress. This classic topper has been a stylish staple for ages, and it will never go out of style.
A classic white T-shirt or a comfy button-down are always must-haves in your wardrobe, but if you're hoping to spice things up this spring, why not take a page from the French style book and try out some romantic boho blouses? These free-spirited, flowy tops come with charming touches like bows, ruffles, smocking and eyelet designs that can transform a simple pair of casual jeans or tailored trousers into a cute and sophisticated outfit.
We know, we know. Pastels for spring are nothing new, but after all those rich winter shades, who wouldn't want to lighten things up a bit? This season, sunny butter yellow is making waves as one of the hottest trends, and the women of Paris are all in! If you're feeling bold, why not try a dress in this cheerful color? If you'd rather ease in slowly, snagging an accessory in the shade is a great way to add a fun pop without going all in on the trend.
While every season brings a slew of new accessory trends, a silk scarf is one style that always remains in heavy rotation in French women's wardrobes. This versatile little gem can be styled in countless ways —wear it around your neck, in your hair or even tied around your favorite handbag for a cute touch. Silky scarves are such an easy, affordable and underrated way to add a dash of colorful European flair to your outfits. Get creative and have fun with it!
Look, we love a comfortable pair of kicks as much as the next girl, but Parisians have a knack for making sneakers look chic instead of sporty. Instead of sticking with those classic white options we all know and love, stylish French girls are having fun with vibrant colors and retro vibes this spring. These vintage kicks have a minimalist silhouette that harks back to the 70s but are made with unexpected colors and supple suede materials to keep them feeling fresh. Whether you choose a pastel lilac or a baby pink or blue, these cool throwbacks will add tons of personality.
We love a purse that can hold more than just the essentials, but if you feel like shaking things up and ditching your usual totes and crossbody bags, look no further than the trendy East/West silhouette that's been taking over the streets of Pairs. The horizontal silhouette feels more modern and fashion-forward than a deep tote, and you'll still have enough space to stash the basics.
A pair of ballet flats is a non-negotiable piece of Parisian footwear that has stood the test of time for decades. But this spring the French are opting for an elevated Mary Jane style, with high-gloss uppers and design-y details. These adorable shoes seamlessly blend grace and practicality, adding just the right touch of playful elegance to any outfit. You can team them up with straight-leg jeans, midi skirts, flowy dresses or wide-leg pants — the styling options are endless. The adjustable strap not only looks cute — it provides extra stability and support, making the shoes comfy to walk in.
