Parisian style is famous for being effortlessly chic and sublimely seductive. The laid-back demeanor of an elegant Frenchwoman has attracted global admiration for centuries, introducing new interpretations of fashion and style to multitudinous generations.
Keep reading to learn how to incorporate a French touch into your wardrobe.
1. Francoise Hardy
Singer-songwriter and film actress, Francoise Hardy, helped popularize a European style of mid-century pop music known as "yé-yé." Hardy is an inspiration to fellow musicians (Mick Jagger and Bob Dylan) and modern filmmakers (Wes Anderson).
Hardy's style consists of ankle boots, collared shirts, fitted A-line dress and slim trousers. For musical performances, Hardy wore pantsuits and sequined dresses.
2. Jeanne Damas
Damas is heralded as "The French Girl 2.0," as her personal style intertwines with different French fashion icons of the past.
As a model, actress and clothing designer, Damas prefers high-waisted denim jeans, peasant blouses, over-sized blazers and fitted wrap dresses.
3. Caroline de Maigret
Maigret illustrated the rich complexities of the sophisticated Frenchwoman in her book, "How to be Parisian You Are: Love, Style and Bad Habits." The music producer is a muse to many fashion luminaries, including Karl Lagerfeld and Alexander Wang.
Maigret's style exudes rock 'n' roll and androgyny with collared shirts, white trainers, and black leather jackets.
4. Brigitte Bardot
Regarded as one of the most quintessential sex symbols of the 1960's, Brigitte Bardot gained international stardom through classic French films, such as "And God Created Woman" and "Le Mépris."
Bardot favored feminine silhouettes that enhanced her small waist and lithe legs. Mini-skirts, floral bikinis, leather boots, tailored suits and ruffly frocks are all a part of her signature style.
5. Jane Birkin
Despite being a native of London, Jane Birkin achieved fame through French cinema and notoriety with her relationship to musician Serge Gainsbourg.
Birkin remains a classic French icon with trademark bangs, flared trousers, a basket handbag and crochet dresses.
6. Léa Seydoux
Actress and model, Seydoux has starred in several films by Woody Allen, Wes Anderson, and Quentin Tarantino. The playful personality of Seydoux was emphasized when she became the face of Prada Candy fragrances.
Seydoux's style is vibrant and flirtatious, reminiscent of London's swinging sixties. Chic figure-hugging dresses, printed pants, and floral coats are included in her wardrobe.
7. Carine Roitfeld
Editor-in-Chief of French Vogue and CR Fashion Book, Roitfeld mixes couture pieces with everyday clothing, depicting a new wave of femininity with pencil skirts, fur coats, and printed blouses.
8. Lou Doillon
Daughter of Jane Birkin, Doillon is favored by many fashion editors, photographers, and designers for her natural poise and overall coolness.
The ease of Doillon is evident in her style; Doillon prefers to wear skinny jeans, wide-brimmed hats, leather handbags and over-sized jackets.
9. Garance Doré
Garance Doré is a fashion blogger and photographer, documenting the changing streets of Paris and the trends that result from regular everyday French women.
Neutral-colored clothing, slim dresses, and ballet flats are key components to Doré's closet.
