French Girl Fall Is Trending on TikTok—Here Are 19 Capsule Wardrobe Staples to Shop
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From Coastal Grandmother chic to Fairycore sweet, TikTok stirs up some of the most interesting, creative and (yes, even) nonsensical aesthetics to the forefront of our FYP. The latest trend to come about, French Girl Fall, is certainly one we can get behind. It’s classy, stylish and all about investing in staple items that a French girl would buy. When TikToker @jennatropea shared a video of a recent French-inspired shopping haul, it quickly went viral on the social media platform. The trend embraces pieces that embody minimalism and sophistication. Think: flats, striped T-shirts, knit cardigans, trench coats…you get the picture.
With the help from The Kooples’ resident ‘French It-Girl’ and consultant Pauline Argenson, we broke down everything you need to know about French Girl Fall, including 19 sophisticated must-haves to add to your capsule wardrobe, from a classic trench coat from Zara ($109) and stripe T-shirt from J.Crew ($50) to a luxe Houndstooth blazer from Mango ($140) and so much more.
The Best French Girl Fall Items at a Glance
Meet the Expert
Pauline Argenson is a Marketing, Events and VIP Influencer Relations Consultant and resident ‘French It-Girl’ for The Kooples, a luxury French fashion brand breaking the rules of conventional fashion.
How We Chose the Best Items for a French Girl Fall Wardrobe
All the items on this list have been vetted by PureWow’s associate fashion commerce editor who has a knack for shopping and spotting high-quality, stylish pieces. We spent hours reviewing and reading customer reviews, searching for items with specific traits, like quality, timelessness and sophistication in mind. We also considered each piece’s comfort, sizing and styling versatility when making our selections. Of course, we scored a recommendation from the French style expert herself, Argenson. Now, amusez-vous as you browse the 19 French Girl Fall fashion essentials below.
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1. Reformation Janae Ultra High-Rise Wide Leg Jeans
“If there’s one piece of clothing that I notice every Parisian wearing time and time again, it’s good denim, especially sailor jeans—aka, a pair of high-waist jeans that have a wide-leg and patch pockets at the front, like this gorgeous pair from Reformation,” says associate fashion commerce editor Stephanie Meraz. “And to be honest, I’d never been a fan of them when I was younger, but there’s something so put-together yet free-spirited, and traditional yet creative about them now. I find the sophisticated style perplexing, and perhaps that’s why I—and so many French women—are drawn to them. I must admit, it reminds me a lot of Jane Birkin.” As Meraz mentions, the Janae style will sit fitted at the waist and hips then fall open into a wide leg that’ll welcome shoes of any size and width, including those chunky boots you’ve been dying to show off.
2. H&M Zip-Up Cardigan
This cute and cozy knit is made from a soft polyester, so you’ll feel like you’re wrapped in one of your favorite blankets. There’s a full, concealed zipper at the front, which can be worn in myriad ways. For instance, you can opt for a relaxed look by leaving it unzipped, go preppy and zip it just high enough for the collars to fold over or bundle up into a turtleneck with it zipped to the top. We’re crazy about its ribbed design, which will make it feel super stretchy and help insulate the cold air from seeping inside. The dropped shoulders are a nice touch, too. So, which color is calling your name: brown, black, light blue or this staple gray?
3. Rothy’s The Square Mary Jane
Mary Janes are basically a rite of passage for any French woman. While the French take is normally accompanied with a one- to two-inch heel, we’re choosing to embrace a flat version in its place this season. And ICYDK, ballet flats with Mary Jane straps are one of the hottest shoe trends of fall 2023, especially styles that boast comfort and style. This square-toe pair from Rothy’s is made from about nine plastic bottles and claims to not have any break-in period due to its ultra-soft and flexible upper. Customers find them to feel lightweight and incredibly comfortable. We bet that thin Mary Jane strap is a godsend for staying secure and feeling like a second skin. Oh, and did we mention that the brand is beloved by two PureWow editors, associate SEO editor Marissa Wu and special projects director Rachel Bowie, who rave about the sturdiness of the soles, their lack of blisters and the fact that they’re machine washable? Ya, you heard that right. Just toss these babies in the wash when they begin to dirty, and they’ll look brand-new in no time.
4. Zara Belted Double Breasted Trench
Another French-inspired wardrobe must-have? A classic and timeless trench coat. And this one from Zara manages to achieve a relaxed yet tailored look that’s chic and traditional in design. It has a striking lapel collar that gives it structure (and looks fabulous when popped) and a double-breasted button closure front that looks great when buttoned or left relaxed. Of course, the self-tie belt at the waist does wonders for the figure, too. That’s not the only cinch detail on this jacket, either. There are belted cuffs at the hem of the long sleeves, which complement the one at the waistline and tie (pun-intended) the entire look together. Let’s just say this trench makes going out in the rain look suddenly appealing.
5. Anthropologie Canapé Pearl-Trim Scoop-Neck Tee
J’adore a scoop neck T-shirt, and so do our French amies. This Canapé blouse adds a hint of luxury to what would otherwise be your average tee thanks to a few pearly details along the neckline and sleeves. That’s right, the hems of the shirt are adorned in small pearls, which elevate the basic blouse and draw the eye towards the décolletage. Oh, and we almost forgot to mention that it comes in a striking white and beautiful green colorway that’ll look great next to the Thanksgiving table. The versatile fabric—a blend of acrylic, rayon and elastane—has a silky sheen to it that can pair well with casual jeans and look elegant when tucked into a silk slip skirt, too. “From the quality to the unique detailing, I am so happy that I got this top,” says one buyer. “I love the little touch of pearls lining the edges of the top and I’m so impressed with the weight and fit of this knit. I’m back to get the white!” Ditto.
6. Gap Cable-Knit Sweater
This isn’t your average cable-knit sweater, folks. In fact, this Gap knit is made from a luxuriously soft 100 percent cotton, so you can bet your stars it’ll feel extremely warm without any of that itchiness or internal sweat you’d possibly feel from other materials like wool or cashmere. So, if you tend to run extra hot and are on the hunt for a knit with some ventilation, this is the cozy gem for you. We love the traditional cable-knit design that will always be in style come every fall and winter, not to mention we appreciate that the sweater has a relaxed, straight silhouette that doesn’t seem to swallow our figures whole. It’s classic, clean and oh-so refined. Mark our words: You’ll want to have this on hand when the wind starts to pick up.
7. DVF Barrington Faux-Wrap Dress
Ever seen a Parisian without a printed wrap dress? Neither did we. And who better to design it than the wrap dress queen herself, Diane Von Furstenberg? This gorgeous beauty is cut from a matte jersey that’s meant to feel extremely soft against your skin and have a relaxed look to it. The wrap bodice and tulip skirt meet at a fitted waistband that’s designed to highlight and cinch-in the smallest part of the frame, accentuating and flattering your figure. And we just love that it has a tasteful V-neckline and wide, roomy elbow-length sleeves that we feel comfortable to wear to work and happy hour after.
8. The Kooples Printed Top
Argenson recently added a few staple pieces to her wardrobe that just happen to align with the French Girl Fall we’re about to have—this black and white floral blouse being one of them. “It's a wardrobe gem that I can easily pair with jeans for a casual yet stylish look or dress up with black pants for a more polished appearance,” says Argenson. It includes a V-neck that can be fastened using delicate ties or left open, plus matching ruffle details along the neckline and elasticated cuffs. It’s the best blouse for the woman who’s been following the sheer-craze dominating red carpets and runways, as it’s comprised of a thin viscose fabric that’s lightweight and slightly sheer in nature. Pair it with a lacey bra for a bold going out look or wear it over a neutral camisole if you want something more covered up.
9. Polène Numéro Un Nano
If you want to dress like a Parisian, you can’t skimp on the accessories. And French brand Polène, beloved by Kate Middleton, takes pride in creating leather goods that embody the French love for minimalism that we’ve all come to know, love and wish to emulate. The beautiful sac we’re eyeing this season? The Numéro Un Nano bag, of course. It’s made with the brand’s renowned leather and embodies a modern reinterpretation of the flagship model, paying homage to its signature shape with delicate folds and curves held together by hand stitching. On top of its beauty, we’re completely enthralled with its wearability and functionality. For instance, did you know that you can wear the purse three ways? That’s right, it can be worn as a handbag, shoulder bag and crossbody bag. Oh, and it has two pockets (back and interior) to hold small items and a magnetic closure to keep all your personal belongings as secure as possible. The bottom line? “Polène makes you feel effortlessly elegant and is full of substance and style,” say PureWow editors and Royally Obsessed co-hosts Rachel Bowie and Roberta Fiorito. “No wonder Kate approves.”
10. ba&sh Meredith Jacket
It’s time to invest in a tweed jacket like this stunner from ba&sh (another Parisian brand). This sophisticated cardi has all the makings of a staple French Girl Fall jacket, from the long sleeves that stop just above the wrist to the golden button details. And can we talk about that clean, round neck? We suddenly forgot the appeal of wearing a collar altogether. If you look carefully, you’ll see that the tweed is slightly texturized because it’s woven with a mixture of cotton and wool fabrics designed to keep out the cold. If you’re worryied about it feeling itchy or stuffy, fret not as this is lined with a soft and breathable viscose fabric for the utmost comfort. The cardigan runs slightly small, per the site’s description, so we suggest you order one size up for a perfect fit. If you want to wear this like a ba&sh girl, opt for cream-colored relaxed jeans and a striped T-shirt, and throw on a pair of adidas Sambas to achieve that cool Parisian girl look. It’s très très chic.
11. Madewell The Vernon Loafer
“Loafers are perennially in style for fall,” says PureWow fashion editor Abby Hepworth in this year’s shoe trends predicts, “but this year they’re near the very top of our list of must-have styles.” Enter: the Vernon loafer from Madewell. Perhaps the French adore a loafer like this sleek style due to its simplicity and practicality, perhaps for the elegance and class or perhaps a mixture of all the above. Well, we knew we adored them once we heard that these come complete with the brand’s signature MWL Cloudlift Lite padding. (If you couldn’t guess from the name, they’ll have you feeling like you’re walking on clouds.) One thing we know to ring true, the French have always been ahead of trending shoes, and we’re taking notes. Hepworth suggest investing in spiffy styles like this pair that has a penny strap and stacked heel in “timeless colors and styles, like black and dark brown, rather than funkier hues or patterns so you can wear them for years to come, even after the trend is replaced by something new.” We think our French friends would say, “Mais oui,” in response.
12. Mango Lapels Houndstooth Suit Blazer
Blazers are a staple regardless of where you’re from. This Mango number is ideal for brisk days ahead, as it’s made of a polyester and wool blend that’ll feel warm and luxuriously weighty. And we’re suckers for a houndstooth pattern that feels reminiscent of old traditions. It includes a button closure and lapel collar V-neck that’s more casual in nature than a double-breasted jacket, but still sharp and stylish enough to command a room with confidence. Toss it on with jeans and a blouse or drape it over a knit dress and you’re practically speaking French. (Well, you know what we mean.)
13. Everlane The Alpaca Crew
This knit is cozy, lightweight and soft enough to make anyone want to outfit repeat without shame. And with nearly 2,000 five-star reviews and 11 colors to choose from—like taupe, yellow and pink—customers seem to agree the Alpaca crew is a real prize to be won. The gray slouchy knit is extremely plush, thanks to that alpaca yarn, which is said to be long-lasting, prickle-free and pill-resistant. “I own *way* too many of these sweaters in various sizes,” admits one reviewer. “They’re my absolute favorite for fall and winter—warm without being bulky. I’m 5’9” and 36A [and the] size small is fantastically slouchy and is my current favorite size. You can absolutely hand wash these in cold water if you’re careful,” however, others found that it’s best to dry clean. Pay close attention to the size guide when you snag yours, as many suggest it runs slightly small and others large.
14. Levi's 501 Original Fit Women’s Jeans
“Like the aforementioned sailor jeans, I’m going to go out on a limb and say that every nearly every—if not, all—French woman owns a pair of 501 Levi’s that look like they’re tailored to her body,” says Meraz. “The 501 Originals fit like a dream—they’re high-rise and are meant to hug the butt so well that it should feel like they were especially made for every curve. OK, I’ll say it…no one does a more flattering bottom than Levi’s. It’s like having the most flattering and comfortable wedgie of all time. Eventually that snug fit at the hips slowly lets up and these cascade into a straight leg, making them an ideal option to wear with boots or slinky heels that’ll pop against the casual denim. My French-inspired Pinterest feeds urge me to style these with a tucked-in blouse and thin black belt, and I’ll even go one step further and swipe on a bold red lip for dramatic effect.” The style is made from 100 percent cotton, which can run small depending on the wash you buy, but there are plenty of sizes, washes and lengths to choose from to find your flawless fit.
15. Anthropologie Maeve Crinkle Button-Front Top
We’re making room in our closets for blouses that look structured, put-together and feminine, like this Maeve beauty from Anthropologie. The deep V-neckline adds a spicy touch to the structured mini lapel collar, and the button-front closure feels entirely on trend. Psst…there are also two darts placed at the back to help cinch in the waist. While some reviewers with bigger boobs were hesitant about the plunging neckline, one found that sizing up was the simplest workaround solution. “I love collared tops that have stretch,” she says. “I have broad shoulders and wear a 36DD and this fit very nicely. I did size up to an extra-large so that it would have a looser fit on me. It looks nice for work [paired] with a cardigan or blazer and also fun with jeans or a skirt.”
16. J.Crew Classic Mariner Boatneck T-Shirt
You know it, you love it and you want some more of it. We’re talking about the one and only striped mariner T-shirt the French seem to obsess over. It’s classic piece, but instead of doing the whole cotton shorts and Sperry’s country club vibe, the French like to wear a striped shirt in a more casual way, with blue jeans, maxi skirts or wide-leg trousers. And the quality on this style is next to none; it’s made from a cotton fabric that has a thick—but not heavy—feel to it, per customer reviews. It’s so nice, one customer bought it twice. “This is my second one of these boatneck tees and I just love the fabric that is used in this tee. It is nice—not too light and not too heavy. I wish they came in more original colors like red and pink or green and blue,” she says.
17. Reformation Layla Silk Skirt
We’ve said it time-and-time again: PureWow readers have the best taste in clothing. Case in point, the Layla silky skirt from Reformation. It’s one of the most gorgeous skirts you can wear all fall and winter long, not to mention it’s also surprisingly versatile and oh-so stretchy (hello, elastic waistband). Oh, and it’s completely on par with the minimalistic and timeless French Girl Fall capsule wardrobe, of course. Speaking of versatility, this skirt can be worn high-waist, mid-waist or low-waist. Now, that’s pretty impressive and a breath of fresh air from those zip-up, too-tight and uncomfortable skirts. The Layla is constructed with a silk charmeuse and cut on a bias, hence why it glides against the body like liquid and has that luxe iridescent sheen. Pair it with the Maeve crinkle top from Anthropologie for a charming look that’s worthy of a stroll by the Seine, or with the Everlane alpaca crew for a cozy and chic ‘fit.
18. Sézane Talli Shirt
The French always seem to err on the side of classy and chic, and if you pay close attention, they tend to stick with simple silhouettes that have a dreamy quality to them. So, when we laid our eyes on the Talli shirt from French label Sézane, we were enamored with its daintiness. This white long-sleeve shirt is made from a silky viscose and lightweight cotton, together giving it that effortless and airy vibe. It has an open collar and beautiful V-neckline that gives you plenty of options to display your best necklaces. And we’re all about a balloon sleeve, especially one that tapers at the cuffs and has matching button closures. TLDR? This is the type of shirt you should whip out for your next dinner date. You can thank us later.
19. Revolve Tony Bianco Caprice Heel
Anyone else getting major The Row vibes? Us too. No wonder this pair of Tony Bianco Caprice heels is a best seller on Revolve. These are strikingly similar to the Bare Leather Sandals but at a fraction of the price. What makes these stand out from the barrage of black heels is the fact that they’re strappy in a way that feels neither too suggestive nor too trendy for a French woman’s wardrobe. If you ask us, it’s the perfect little black heel that you can keep in your closet forever. What’s more, many reviewers rave about how comfortable they feel even after hours of wear (including dancing). “These heels are perfection! I bought them in black, white and tan. They are so comfortable and easy to walk in [and] the heels look amazing on—so feminine and sexy. I was nervous about the thin strap, but it holds well. The width is more on the narrow side [and the] two-and-a-half-inch heel height is amazing. (It’s so hard to find sexy heels at this height.) The sizing is true-to-size; I'm a true eight and the size eight fits great. Seriously my dream heels,” raves one Revolve customer.
What Is French Girl Fall?
TikTok user @jennatropea’s French Girl Fall capsule wardrobe haul–which garnered 558,200 views on TikTok–featured plenty of elevated basics and styles that err on the side of timelessness from some of our favorite (and budget-friendly) stores like H&M, Mango, Everlane, J.Crew and more. There’s certainly a sense of accessibility to the je ne sais quoi French aesthetic that—until now—felt like you had to be born with. “As a French woman, I think the ‘French Girl Fall’ is about embodying the art of effortlessly blending timeless elegance with a touch of casual chic,” says Argenson. “It's a style that captures the essence of autumn with its distinctive fashion choices. Think of cozy yet sophisticated outfits that exude confidence and relaxed sophistication.” Below, you’ll find Argenson’s expert tips on what you should look for (and steer clear of) when shopping for your French Girl Fall capsule wardrobe.
What to Invest in to Achieve the French Girl Fall Style
Argenson tells us, “To achieve the French Girl Fall look, consider investing in some essential wardrobe pieces. Think oversize blazers, leather jackets, cashmere turtleneck sweaters for warmth, cable-knit sweaters for coziness, high-rise jeans to elongate your legs and slip skirts for a touch of style. These items are your best fashion companions, always there to help you look effortlessly chic.” Noted.
What *Not* to Invest in to Achieve the French Girl Fall Style
Per Argenson’s advice, it’s best to avoid anything too flashy, and “Keep your jewelry simple and let your personal style shine through. It's all about striking that perfect balance between comfort and flair,” she adds.
9 Items Every French Woman Has in Her Closet
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