For another year in a row, French women are proving once again that looking effortlessly chic doesn’t require a trust fund—just a few smart choices and a well-curated wardrobe. Forget about splurging on the latest trends; it’s all about investing in those timeless staples that make you look like you’ve just stepped off a Parisian boulevard (with minimal effort, of course). The best part? None of these wardrobe wonders will cost you a fortune—every item is under $200, coming from brands like Zara, Mango, and H&M.
Oui, you read that right. Whether you’re channeling your inner French muse or simply aiming for that “I just threw this on” vibe, these five investment pieces French women swear by will keep you looking polished without shelling out thousands of dollars on a single outfit. If you’re looking to upgrade your style in 2025, scroll below to discover the best affordable pieces French women are buying.
Tried-and-True Jeans
How to style: Jeans + striped sweater + leather shoes
Levi’s
Ribcage High Waist Straight Leg Jeans
Zara
Z1975 Denim Straight Cut Jeans With a High Waist
Zara
Z1975 Denim Straight Cut Jeans With a High Waist
Well-Made Sweaters
How to style: White T-shirt + cashmere sweater + satin skirt + pointed-toe boots
Nordstrom
V-Neck Cashmere Sweater
H&M
Oversized Curved-Hem Sweater
Zara
Basic Soft Knit Sweater
Nordstrom
Stripe Cashmere Mock Neck Sweater
Caslon
Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
Elegant Leather Shoes
How to style: Leather shoes + jeans + an oversize blazer
Mango
Pointed-Toe Heeled Shoes
Zara
Flat Leather Slingback Shoes
STEVEMADDEN
Jones Black Leather
Zara
Faux Patent Leather Penny Loafers
Jeffrey Campbell
Trustee Pump
Timeless Coats
How to style: A classic coat + white tee + jeans + wayfarer sunglasses
H&M
Coat With Shoulder Pads
Zara
Faux Suede Trench Coat
Show Me Your Mumu
Melrose Sweater Jacket
Mango
Classic Trench Coat With Belt
Minimalist Bags
How to style: Navy coat + coduroy pants + black belt + leather bag
Gap
Vegan Suede Slouchy Tote Bag
Madewell
The Essential Bucket Tote
Charles & Keith
Voyager Leather Belted Trapeze Tote Bag
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