Women in Paris Wear These 7 Elegant Basics More Than Anything Else

Elegant basics French girls: @sylviemus_ wears a white t-shirt with a pencil skirt

Photo:

@sylviemus_

French style is consistently alluring given the fashion set's effortless approach to dressing. As a result, we, the editors at WWW, follow a range of Parisians on Instagram for outfit ideas that are easy and chic. After scrolling through a slew of images, it became evident that there are a few elegant basics many women in Paris are wearing and seemingly prioritising over other basics. Oh, and by elegant basics, we're referring to those highly versatile items that are simple but refined and sleek.

Below, you'll uncover the elegant basics in question, showcased by some of our favourite French follows. You'll notice that each basic acts as a foundational element in each look and could also be styled with a range of other items. If you're interested in adding one of the pieces to your own capsule wardrobe, there are shopping recommendations that would totally be approved by Parisians. 

1. Satin Skirt

Elegant basics French girls: @vikilefevre a a slip skirt with a long-sleeved top and mules

Photo:

@vikilefevre

Style Notes: A satin skirt is about as elegant as it gets. You can wear one with anything on top, and you'll have yourself a chic look.

Shop the look:

I love that there's a matching shirt, too.

This is incredibly versatile. Wear it with sneakers or boots during the day then switch to heels come evening.

This longline skirt comes in seven different colours and prints.

2. Cinched-In Jacket

Elegant basics French girls: @aidabadji_ wears a belted blazer

Photo:

@aidabadji_

Style Notes: Tailored jackets with a cinched-in silhouette are trending hard right now and create a sleek, refined silhouette.

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I can't believe how affordable this is.

An elevated take on the classic blazer.

A simple colour palette is the key to the Parisian look.

3. White T-Shirt

Elegant basics French girls: @sylviemus_ wears a white t-shirt with a denim skirt

Photo:

@sylviemus_

Style Notes: There's no denying the ease of a white tee. A fitted style like this one is just so elegant with a skirt or pair of jeans.

Shop the look:

If you prefer boxier cuts, try this Joseph style.

Use this V-neck option to show off layered necklaces.

4. Blue Button-Down Shirt

Style Notes: A button-down shirt is inherently chic. While white shirts are a forever favorite among the French style set, blue styles are another top pick.

There's something so luxe about a satin shirt, no matter the price point. 

This shade of blue is so expensive-looking.

5. Wide-Leg/Flared Jeans

Elegant basics French girls: @juliesfi wears a suede blazer with flared jeans

Photo:

@juliesfi

Style Notes: In the denim realm, it's all about wide-leg styles and flared jeans, especially in slightly darker washes, and they feel most elegant with other basics.

Shop the look:

Don't overlook the power of flared jeans. 

The slight stretch means this chic pair will be comfortable all day long. 

6. Trench Coat

Style Notes: It probably doesn't come as much of a surprise that a trusty trench coat rounds out this list. You can toss one over any look and give the ensemble a more polished feel.

Shop the look:

& Other Stories makes some of the best trench coats on the high street.

This is a chic alternative to the classic beige trench.

This lightweight iteration is ideal through autumn, winter and spring. 

Timeless pieces like this are well worth the investment.

7. Tall Boots

Elegant basics French girls: @emmanuellek_ wears an aviator jacket with a mini skirt and tall boots

Photo:

@emmanuellek_

Style Notes: Knee-high or mid-calf boots are a French girl favourite, especially when paired with short skirts and dresses and black tights.

You'll wear these for many winters to come.

This story originally appeared on Who What Wear US and has since been updated.

Next Up: The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week