The 5 French Fashion Trends Parisiennes Can’t Stop Wearing

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Summer is finally here, and I just returned from a trip to the City of Lights where I spent a few blissful days strolling through the Marais, sipping champagne on Bonnie’s rooftop, and splurging at La Samaritaine. While I’m not a true Parisienne, I can certainly try to dress like one. These five French fashion trends for 2024 are already being worn by Parisian fashion—and imitation is the highest form of flattery.

There’s no place I feel more inspired than Paris. Between the city’s architecture, history, art, food, and fashion, it’s easy to spend every minute of my time soaking up what’s around me. I inevitably return home with a suitcase full of ideas.

Parisian style has always been rooted in the classics. A trench coat, a swipe of red lipstick, loafers, and a Longchamp bag are all elements that come to mind when I think of the Parisian style aesthetic. However, it would be insulting to the influence of French fashion to work from such limited aesthetic parameters.

During my trip, I stayed at the SO/Paris hotel, a modern five-star in the Marais that attracts fashion industry clients and locals alike, a great place to people-watch. This season, I noticed an incredible balance between fun and function in Parisian street style.

A shimmering Rabanne miniskirt and a practical handbag are equally valuable in a cool Parisienne’s wardrobe. And if my American perspective doesn’t convince you, don’t worry, I consulted the impeccably dressed personal stylist of La Samaritaine, the famous Parisian department store, to get her expert perspective.

Grégoire Metoz works with buyers from all over the world and has a list of French fashionistas. If there’s anyone who knows what Parisiennes are buying, it’s him.

According to Metoz, you can expect to see an increase in colors and textures in the summer fashion palette. “Every collection has a lot of orange and a lot of baby blue. And of course, florals, but not just prints, real floral embroidery,” says Metoz.

If you’ve already opted for classic French style with a Sézane trench coat, consider pairing it with an embroidered blouse or mini skirt for the transition to warmer weather. The easiest way to embrace the French fashion aesthetic? “Stick to brands that are designed or made in Europe, like Nanushka or Forte Forte. Rabanne is on the rise, and Ganni is a brand that the French love,” says Metoz.

Another brand that both the French and Americans love is Polène. If I had a dollar (or a euro) for every Polène bag I saw on the streets of Paris or New York, I would book a round-trip flight to Paris.

According to Emma Mawdlsey, Polène’s PR manager in Paris, both French and American women have decided that the era of the micro bag is over. In both countries, Polène’s best-selling handbag is the Numéro Dix, a tote that’s roomy enough to hold your phone, wallet, sunglasses, and lip balm, with extra wiggle room. Maybe it’s time to give your Jacquemus micro bag a well-deserved vacation and upgrade to a more practical crossbody.

What I love about French style is that trends last a while. They are relatively vague, like the return of the crossbody bag, which gives the wearer the power to adapt them to their personal style. This helps ensure that pieces last longer in your wardrobe and encourages thoughtful purchases rather than convenient fast fashion purchases.

Versatility? Yes.