It’s no secret that French women possess a knack for a polished style that reads as effortless and cool. Over the years, they prove to really refine their personal senses of style with wardrobes stocked with incredible closet essentials. French women are truly in the know about which building blocks will last for years ahead, so it’s no surprise you’ll spot many of them wearing the same staples.
Yep, you’ll be sure to spot elegant tweed pieces on both Carla Bruni and Isabel Marant. The same goes for ankle boots, which you’ll see Nadege du Bosterus and Juliette Binoche styling with their looks. And it doesn’t stop there. Ahead, take inspiration from stylish over-50 French women and see the six pieces you’ll spot in all of their closets. You can also shop the items for yourself to replicate their chic looks.
Isabelle Huppert in a trench coat and heels.
Style Notes: No matter what season it is, trench coats are an easy staple to make any outfit looks polished. Whether layered over a sweater, trousers and boots in the winter or Bermuda shorts and a tee in the summer, this French girl–approved piece is a true classic.
Carine Roitfeld in a trench coat with leggings.
You can’t get more timeless than a classic beige trench coat.
I’ve had my eye on this all winter, Arket’s coats are the best they’ve ever been at the moment.
This is one of the chicest trenches on the high street right now.
Nadege du Bospertus in black ankle boots.
Style Notes: A great pair of ankle boots is an investment that is definitely worth the cost per wear. You can pair them with a dressy suit for a red carpet-worthy look or style them with jeans for a more casual look.
Juliette Binoche in chocolate brown ankle boots and flared jeans.
Bambou Gainsbourg in suede ankle boots.
I can vouch these are heel you can easily walk all day in.
Burgundy is a sleek alternative to black.
A signature Isabel Marant pair.
Carla Bruni in a tweed jacket and skinny jeans.
Style Notes: Tweed is the luxe fabric that instantly makes me think of stylish French women. To avoid making it look too stiff, try pairing a jacket with leggings or leather pants for an outfit that is equal parts sophisticated and cool.
Isabel Marant in a tweed waistcoat.
Anne Hidalgo in a tweed overcoat.
The crop silhouette is really chic.
Pink tweed? I’m sold.
A monochrome combo is really versatile.
If you thought this was designer, I wouldn’t blame you.
France Zobda in wide-leg high-waisted trousers.
Style Notes: If you’re looking to make your wardrobe feel more polished, you can’t go wrong with a great pair of high-waisted trousers. Whether styled with a button-down top or a leather jacket, the tailored basic reads as instantly polished.
Isabelle Adjani in black high-waisted trousers.
Anh Duong in sequin high-waisted trousers.
The gold buttons add a premium touch.
These ‘Perfect’ pants are made from a four-way stretch-pointe fabric, which means they hold you in, in all the right places. Wear with a cream knit and trainers for a cool yet chic look.
The chocolate brown shade is a chic alternative to classic black.
Ines de la Fressange in a navy blazer with white denim.
Style Notes: A tailored blazer might be one of the most versatile pieces you can add to your wardrobe. For a piece that feels inspired by French women, look for a slightly oversize fit with sharp tailoring.
Virginie Mozat in a black suit.
Virginie Viard in a tux-style blazer.
A leather version feels so fresh right now.
All our editors agree: Arket’s blazer is one of the best.
Made from a stretchy wool fabric, this blazer is both warm and comfy.
Perfectly tailored in velvet for extra French girl style.
Emmanuelle Alt in black pumps, wide-leg trousers and a leather jacket.
Style Notes: The ultimate sleek heels that go with anything? Sleek pumps. The versatile staple is one that withstands trends, so it’s easy to see why you’ll find it in every French woman’s wardrobe.
Sophie Marceau in suede pumps and a pencil skirt.
Catherine Deneuve in black pumps and a leopard coat.
The contrast of patent and matte leather adds to the elegance of this pair.
Nude pumps are a true wardrobe staple.
A shoe style you’ll wear for the rest of your life.
Next up, The 17-Piece Wardrobe All the French Girls Will Wear This Spring
This piece originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S. and has since been updated.
