I Go to Paris Multiple Times a Year — These Are the 4 Trends French Women Wear for Summer

I’ve been to Paris almost a dozen times, and I consistently return because of the fashion. Sure, the city is beautiful and has a lot of history, but I also get so much style inspiration from locals as they walk down the street.

It doesn’t matter the season — Parisians know how to dress! However, the French girl’s summer style is unmatched. If you want to feel like the most fashionable person in the room this summer, you’ll want to stock up on the following four trends that women in Paris swear by every year. I usually see styles featuring embroidered details, satin-like fabrics, polka dot patterns and mule-style shoes, just to name a few. See these French-inspired picks from Quince, Reformation, Free People and more without ever stepping foot in Le Marais.

20 Trendy French Woman-Inspired Summer Pieces

Embroidered Tops

1. Classy as It Gets: The French know how to turn an average button-down shirt into something elegant with embroidered stitching. I’ve seen women wear this stunning eyelet blouse style from Paris all the way down to the coast.

2. French Boho: This Treasure & Bond top blends boho style with French sophistication, thanks to the combination of the tailored silhouette and dainty flowers cascading up the bodice.

3. Work of Art: Hang it in the Louvre! This scalloped-edge embroidered blouse from Mango looks like a work of art.

4. Breezy Blouse: Although Paris gets hot in the summer, many French women still wear long-sleeve blouses, similar to this lightweight cotton ruffle blouse. It gets bonus points for the effortlessly chic Peter Pan collar.

5. Peek-a-Boo: This linen-blend pick might look like your average embroidered tank from the front, but the back is head-turning with the tie closures that encourage you to show a little skin.

Polka Dots

6. Pattern Du Jour: I can’t walk anywhere in Paris without seeing someone wear a gorgeous swingy polka dot dress, so I immediately added this brown and white one to my cart.

7. Pop of Color: Along with polka dots, a red lip is a Parisian staple. Match your lipstick to your outfit with this maroon and white polka dot puff-sleeve blouse.

8. No Brainer: Why spend extra time choosing an outfit when this strapless polka dot set is the obvious choice. The summery two-piece find can be worn together or separately for endless styling options.

9. All In the Details: Add a little flair to your outfit with these fun polka dot heeled sandals that evoke a vintage vibe.

10. So French: I can’t think of anything more Parisian than this boat-neck polka dot top. Every French woman owns this style!

Silky Bottoms

11. So Cool: The French love luxurious fabrics, so it’s no surprise that satin pants are a wardrobe staple. This soft pair feels just as comfy as pajamas.

12. The Real Deal: It’s difficult to find a 100% silk skirt on Amazon, but I struck gold with this maxi option that’s made from mulberry silk.

13. Let It Flow: Are these bottoms pants or a skirt? Technically pants, but with all the billowing fabric it’s very androgynous, which is something the French love.

14. Sweet Trim: You don’t often see Parisians wearing shorts, unless they look something like these lace-lined silk ones that feel cheeky and fun when paired with heels.

15. Just Relax: Summer is not the time to wear uncomfortable clothes, which is probably why Parisians love soft, stretchy silk pants. This loose pair from Free People comes in four eye-catching hues, including chic red.

Mules 

16. The Timeless Pick: The professional loafer mules are in style all year round in Paris. For summer, opt for a lighter color, like beige or nude, to blend in with the locals.

17. The Coast Is Calling: Once the calendar reaches August, Parisians say ‘goodbye’ to the city and head to the coast. And thus, they’re wearing only one thing on their feet: beachy rafia mules.

18. Paris Classic: What’d I say earlier? The French love a pop of red, especially for their footwear. Wear these cherry Mary Jane mules, and everyone will think you’re a born-and-bred Parisian.

19. A Little Lift: Stilettos are a no-no on Paris’s cobblestoned streets, but if you want some added height, these block-heeled mules are stable, chic and easy to walk in.

20. Cut It Out: It’s difficult to reinvent the mule, but the unique twisted cutout on this leather style makes the silhouette feel fresh and new.