Classic Paris Street Style: Tips and Outfit Inspiration

There is something so je ne sais quois about French style. Classic Paris street style is a look that so many aim to achieve. It’s timeless and chic, but in a very effortless way. There are countless books written about how to dress like a Parisian, and the art of living the French way. So what is the obsession with classic Paris style? And how do you achieve the Paris street style look? There are a few key things to consider when attempting French style. From the perfect Breton stripe top to a tailored blazer, I’ll show you how to curate a wardrobe that captures the essence of Paris fashion while staying true to your personal style. Whether you’re strolling down the Champs-Élysées or sipping coffee at a sidewalk café, these tips will help you bring a little Paris style into your life.

Classic Paris Street Style Tips

Choose Quality Over Quantity

First, Parisians invest in high-quality, well-made garments that will stand the test of time, rather than buying into fast fashion trends. They recognize the value in building a wardrobe of versatile, timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of chic outfits. It’s all about investing in quality pieces you can wear again and again. Quality does not always mean expensive, however it is better to buy well made pieces that will last, and not need to be replaced the following season.

Embracing Minimalism and Simplicity

Parisians understand that less is more when it comes to creating a polished and effortless look. Emphasis is on clean lines, simple silhouettes, and classic shapes such as straight-leg trousers, A-line dresses, and well-fitting tops. By embracing a minimalist approach to dressing, you can capture the essence of the Paris street style and exude a sense of timeless elegance. They are key pieces you need in a classic capsule wardrobe.

Choose Neutral Colors: And Mix Black and Brown

Parisians wear lots of neutral colors like navy blue, black, brown, and tan. This goes along with the idea of simplicity. These colors easily pair with white and can be mixed and matched to each other. For example, black and navy, as well as black and brown are often worn together in Paris. This doesn’t mean you can’t wear color, but neutrals go with everything.

Choose Tailored Pants

French women love tailored and well-fitting wardrobe pieces. Having a classic, tailored pair of pants is part of every French capsule wardrobe. Choose a neutral or black to easily create multiple outfits. I love white or tan pants for spring and summer, and black pants for fall and winter. It’s great to have seasonal options full of timeless pieces you can reach for again and again.

Opt For Stripe Tops

Classic stripes are so Parisian! Whether or not you choose to wear a beret, a stripe top such as a short sleeve tee, a  marinière top, or a striped sweater is a classic Paris street style look. Wear your stripe tops with tailored trousers for a casual chic look, straight leg jeans for effortless everyday style, or shorts for French Riviera chic.

Wear a Classic Bag or Tote

Having a great bag, even if it’s just one, will go far in your wardrobe. Classic Paris street style is very similar to a minimal chic or old money type of dressing. Basics are the foundation of Parisian streetwear and that includes having a great bag. Opt for a neutral leather bag to wear all year long, or a chic raffia tote for strolling through the summer market.

Flats Shoes: Ballet Flats and Loafers Are Top Choices

We love our high heels in the US, however over in France flats shoes are the shoes of choice when it comes to street style! With all the walking Parisians do, flat shoes and even some low heels are essential for comfort. Luckily there are so many stylish flat shoes to choose from. Woven ballet flats can add a bit of texture to minimal chic outfits, while classic ballet flats are great for pairing with prints like stripe tops. Loafers are another really great shoe option for casual yet polished outfits. I especially love leather loafers in the fall with a nice striped sweater and straight-leg jeans!

Easy Dresses

Easy dresses are great for walking around town. Especially when the weather is hot, opt for a t-shirt dress instead of shorts. A dress is more polished and is versatile for so many occasions. Pair it with a large raffia tote for classic summer Paris street style and an all season leather bag in Fall.

Parisian Streetwear Outfit Inspiration

Dresses With Sneakers

Dresses with sneakers are a classic Paris street style look. Wearing sneakers with a dress makes the overall look casual and effortless. You can wear any length dress but choose low profile sneakers to keep the outfit from looking off balance. Sneakers that are too chunky can draw the eye down. Add a camel coat and scarf for winter!

 

 

Striped Sweater with Tailored Pants

Stripes are an all-season print. Wear your stripe tee and stripe sweater all throughout the year. Adding a sweater to a simple t-shirt outfit is great for transition into new seasons such as winter to spring, and into Fall. An easy way to get the Paris girl street style vibe. La Ligne has a great selection of striped tees and sweaters. My collection from them is growing. You can take 10% off your first purchase with TARAT10.

 

 

Easy T-shirt Dress and Raffia Tote

Shorts are more of an American style than a Parisian style. Opt for an easy t-shirt dress instead of shorts when the weather gets hot. You can keep it extra comfortable with your classic low-profile sneakers, or wear with sandals and a raffia tote for easy chic summer style. Remember, the French do a lot of walking so comfort is key!

 

 

Day to Night Dress

Simplicity and versatility is key to a French wardrobe. Having a dress that can easily take you from day to night can save you from having to buy multiple dresses. This t-shirt style dress has a wrap detail at the waist, making this a little dressier than your average tee dress. For daytime, I love these sandals and have them in several colors. They are very comfortable and are a great alternative to the Hermes Oran sandals. You can take 20% off your purchase with THEFASHIONHOUSEMOM. At night, swap out your sandals for a pair of block heels (15% off with TARA15) for easy walking.

 

 

Floral Dress with Market Tote

Floral dresses are always a good idea, especially for strolling the farmers market. Whether you are in Provence or your own town, it’s an easy yet elegant style. I love how you can easily dress up or down a dress by changing out your shoes. For everyday walking and errands, stick to flat leather sandals for Paris street style comfort. Wear with romantic flowing dresses for classic and effortless french style at its best.

 

 

Classic Marinière Top with Straight-leg Jeans

A timeless marinière pairs well with straight-leg jeans for an easy everyday Paris street style look. A Marinière, also known as a Breton shirt, is a classic French long-sleeve stripe top. The horizontal stripe tops were originally designed for the French navy because stripes were easy to spot at sea. Today you can wear marinières with jeans, shorts, or tailored pants. They make the perfect spring outfit!

 

 

Black and Brown Outfit

Paris street style is full of neutral outfits. Pairing black and brown together is one style that Parisians has mastered. Pairing these two colors is easier than you think. Keep the color palette to 2-3 colors like black, brown, and white. You can also go for a monochrome look by wearing a black top, black pants, with a brown belt, brown bag, and a black shoes.

 

 

Accessorize With a Scarf

Adding a scarf to your outfit is very Parisian. Whether you tie it to you bag or wear it around your neck, a scarf is très chic! Choose a silk scarf for spring and summer, and a cashmere or wool scarf for winter.

 

 

Camel Wool Coat Outfit

There’s nothing more timeless in winter than a wool camel coat. It’s classy and goes with everything. It even elevates an athleisure outfit. Paris street style in winter is full of classic black and camel coats. While black is a versatile option to choose, try a classic camel coat for a warmer rich tone.

 

Jeans and Blazer Outfit

Straight leg jeans reign supreme in Paris street style. Add a blazer for a classic fall look and style with loafers for daytime, and low slingback heels (take 15% off Inez shoes with TaraFHM15) for an evening out. Black blazers are top choice in Paris, but feel free to wear navy or tan.

 

Trench Coat Outfit

A trench coat is essential for visiting Paris, especially in spring and fall. Unexpected rain and cooler temperatures make this light layer key for walking through the city. A trench coat can be styled with anything from dresses to jeans. This trench is from my favorite French brand. You can read more about it in my Sezane clothing review.

 

White Button down Shirt and Jeans

It doesn’t get more classic Paris street style than a white shirt and jeans. This is my go-to outfit when I’m not sure what to wear. You can keep it casual with loafers, or dress it up with heels. A no-fail outfit that everyone wears in Paris. It’s simple, chic, and timeless.

 

Mastering classic Paris street style is about understanding the key pieces that define this iconic look, and then incorporating them into your own personal style. Focus on minimalism, quality over quantity, and the importance of fit and tailoring, you can build a wardrobe that captures the essence of Parisian style. Invest in timeless fashion staples, play with neutral colors and classic patterns, and don’t be afraid to mix high-end and affordable pieces to create a cohesive, chic look.