Outside of the super-luxe brands, there’s a French girl style that’s chic and affordable.
When we see Parisian style on the street, we know it. Classic, effortless, it’s all about the cut. Shopping in Paris can be overwhelming with a plethora of boutiques lining up every rue. Please don’t pop by a H&M or Zara, even if they combust major street corners. Check out the list below, however, for a quick rundown of quintessential French girl brands that you’d not only fall in love with but couldn’t wait to embody.
Sézane
Sézane might be a fast rising brand which started out as online-only back in 2013 but quickly gained popularity with its Parisian-chic designs. The store in the 2nd arrondissement called: L’Appartement Sézane is set up to look like a French girl’s apartment. The quality might lack a bit, so careful on the wash. If that’s not a deal breaker for you, then pick up a few leather booties and embroidered blouses.
Maje
Maje has recently expanded its français wings into global cities, even in Asia. But inside Parisian boutiques, you may find styles and colors that aren’t available in your hometown. Especially if you visit Paris during major sales months (January or July,) when you can pick up Maje pieces at 50-70% discounts. Known for an alluring feminine approach with huge splashes of color, you want to invest in their bomber jackets here. They’re…pretty bomb.
Sandro
Just as how prevalent Maje is throughout Paris, so is Sandro. A mid-price brand that gives 9-5 work attire a bit more edge and color. Sleek lines, lots of black and white against interesting textures. Similar to Sézane, the quality might come up short for the price tag but stop by during sales months and you’ll be reaping in major stylish benefits. Especially if you happen to spot a great coat!
Claudie Pierlot
Every French woman in their late 20’s and 30’s love Claudie Pierlot for its modern and sophisticated professional pieces that are ideal for the office and work meetings. The signature bows on light blouses are refined touches that accompany well with mini skirts and dainty slacks. If you’d like to upgrade your office wardrobe, this is the place to do it. Claudie Pierlot boutiques can be found in most shopping districts throughout Paris.
Isabel Marant
Adored by celebrities like Anne Hathaway and Kate Bosworth, Isabel Marant is known for bohemian ease with a rocker’s edge. You might have seen the brand in most major U.S. department stores, but you might find special collections of shoes that only exist in Paris. Back in the 90s, the brand might have began with a successful launch of knitwear and jerseys. Today, Isabel Marant is the perfect place to pick up a fabulous party dress with a pair of its signature heels.
Rouje
11 bis, rue Bachaumont, 75002 Paris
We simply can’t complete this list without the inclusion of Jeanne Damas – the ultimate French girl blogger turned founder of Rouje. Her collections mostly feature flower dresses, cropped denims and light blouses highlighted on Damas’ hugely popular Instagram profile. Although her pieces are sold mainly via e-commerce, Rouje has finally opened a physical store in the 2nd arrondissement. The boutique is also a cantine, just in case you get hungry while browsing and shopping! Leave it to Damas for redefining Parisian chic and femininity to a global audience.
ba&sh
If you’re looking for the IT music festival dresses for summertime, then head to ba&sh for options that’ll truly stand out during Instagrammable moments. From mini skirts to long dresses, ba&sh is your Parisian bohemian dream come true. Designed by best friends Barbara Boccara & Sharon Krief, they wanted ba&sh to symbolize a sense of freedom and ease. Stores are also located throughout Paris.
The Kooples
The Kooples founders might have caught themselves in a major scandal recently, but the concept of a guy and a girl’s ability to borrow each other’s clothes still remains intact by its loyal following. Not only are The Kooples’ collections unisex, the vibe is often streetwear posh with enormous rockstar status inspo. Prices might be high, but the elegant tailoring is worth it. Fun fact, The Kooples always feature real life couples in their ads.
Comptoir des Cotonniers
I often think Comptoir des Cotonniers is made for the subdued French women who don’t feel the need to be in the spotlight but they carry strong personalities and aren’t afraid to speak their minds. The brand features preppy styles with a solid emphasis on unwavering geometric lines. Comptoir des Cotonniers has made basic pieces so comfortable that you’ll want to be wrapped in them for years to come. Having Charlotte Gainsbourg and her daughter Alice in previous ad campaigns, the brand is making a cool case for effortless ease.
Zadig & Voltaire
As you traverse through Parisian cobblestone alleys, you’ll discover that not every French girl boast bohemian feels. Many of them infuse punk fashion with a somewhat hippie free spirit quite well. As one of the first affordable luxury brands in the world, Zadig & Voltire is the perfect illustration that flashy blazers can pair favorably with ladylike summer dresses and military boots. Fun fact: Zadig’s founder, Thierry Gillier, is the grandson of the co-founder of Lacoste.
