If fashion had a global capital, it might be France, the birthplace of Chanel, Dior, and the “French girl” aesthetic. French girl style is the kind of thing you know when you see it: It looks classic, yet fresh, and somehow never overly done. In fact, it might be the undone-ness that makes the style so attractive — don’t we all want to embrace a little tousled hair or the lightest touch of makeup and yet still look chic?
For some, however, this just results in a look that appears messy or disheveled. It might seem like sartorial finesse is just embedded in French DNA from birth and the rest of us simply can’t pull off French girl style like les Français. Thankfully, nailing the aesthetic doesn’t have to be so hard. It all comes down to one little secret: high-low styling.
The basics of high-low styling
Okay, so quick disclaimer: Not every woman in France, or even most women in Paris, have the same approach when it comes to fashion. Walk the streets of any French city and you’ll see diverse styles — and also totally “normal” and basic clothes — just as you would anywhere else. That said, the effortlessly cool quality French style is known for often comes down to high-low styling.
High-low styling involves creating an outfit that includes both “high” and “low” pieces. Take casual basics and dress them up with polished, luxe, or high-quality garments and accessories to strike a balance between classy and cool. Or, similarly, team an on-trend item with timeless pieces that reflect your personal style.
The result: Outfits that never look too boring and basic or too flashy. Not overdoing it with your clothes is a basic principle of French fashion. Just think of the famous quotes often attributed to Coco Chanel: “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off” and “It is always better to be underdressed.”
Examples of high and low pieces
“High” and “low” are somewhat subjective, and what feels dressed up or down to you may vary from the next person. However, there are several pieces found in many French wardrobes that can usually be placed in one category or the other:
High
- A tailored blazer
- A string of pearls and other classic jewelry
- A soft, luxurious cardigan
- A tailored coat in a high-quality wool or similar material
- A well-made designer bag
- A frilly or elegant dress or skirt
- Garments made with delicate fabric or delicate embellishments
- A crisp button-up shirt
- Classic loafers
- A timeless trench coat
- Elevated sunglasses
- Femme ballet flats
Low
- A basic T-shirt or tank top
- Jeans
- Casual sneakers
- An edgy pair of motorcycle boots
- A slouchy pair of pants
- An easy-going tote bag
- A basket bag
- A classic Breton striped top
- Simple, made-for-walking sandals
- A trendy graphic sweater
- Denim shorts
- A sporty sweatshirt
How to put it all together like a French girl
There isn’t one specific formula when it comes to mixing high and low pieces. The goal is simply to use elements from both categories to create a sense of balance. When in doubt, prioritize practicality. It’s easy to mistake French fashion for fussy couture-adjacent styles, but, really, comfort is top of mind for many French women.
Consider the occasion and the day’s activities. For instance, if you’ll be doing a lot of walking, ditch your heels in favor of ballet flats. Make note of the weather too. Sweating because you piled on too many layers or shivering because you wanted to skip the coat won’t make you look stylish or effortless. Plus, you might find that the garment or accessory that serves a purpose or function, such as a thick winter scarf or a sun-shielding cap, actually elevates an outfit and keeps you from looking like you tried too hard.
If you need a little inspiration but don’t have a plane ticket booked for France, let these examples guide you:
A sheer dress to make you go “ooh la la,” paired with pointy heels and a classic designer bag. The whole look is grounded with an oversized, utilitarian jacket, making what would otherwise look like an evening ensemble work for the daytime.
Is anything more French than a striped Breton top and ballet flats? However, a sporty pair of Adidas shorts — in a bright color, to add interest — gives this outfit an unexpected relaxed flair.
The jumpsuit and tailored jacket in this look could go either way: elevated or laid-back. With the way it’s styled, you don’t have to pick sides. A Celine bag and brown belt with gold hardware dress it up, while a cap and slim-line sneakers keep it casual.
This fun Ralph Lauren bear sweater is youthful but kept from appearing childish with the right styling. Notice the relaxed-fit pants, which almost resemble loungewear, combined with feminine ballet flats and classic gold hoop earrings.
This outfit consists mostly of timeless pieces, which are essential in a French wardrobe. However, there’s still a bit of coolness to it, particularly with the denim jacket tied around the waist. This “low” detail keeps the look from appearing stuffy or boring.
On its own, a plaid blazer is preppy and a little old-school, but here, it’s made for everyday wear with a graphic T-shirt and blue jeans. The hot pink bag also keeps the ensemble from looking too serious.
A striped button-up shirt with denim shorts is a summertime classic, but notice the little details that make this outfit interesting: a string of pearls, which offers an elegant touch, plus a casual pair of sneakers for contrast.
From head to toe, this outfit is quintessential French girl fashion. On the “high” end, we have a tailored houndstooth jacket, strappy cap toe flats, an elevated tote, and a pair of sunglasses. Balancing those pieces out on the “low” end is a pair of denim bermuda shorts, which add both an informal and trendy quality.