How French Women Dress For The Summer

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Paris is the epicenter of cool-girl fashion. There’s something so aspiringly romantic about the idea of being as stylish as French girls.

French style, regardless of the season, is a representation of someone who is elegant and refined. It’s an elevation of classic pieces mixed in with a few trendy pieces to amplify the best of the season.

Dressing French is capitalizing on simple, high-quality pieces that are specifically tailored to the individual. This is no different for the summer season for French women. 

French Summer Outfits

While summer in the city is hot, everyday dresses, whether they are maxi dresses or midi are perfect for an urban setting.

Finish off dresses like French girls and opt for ballet flats or sandals, when walking around the city. 

Scroll below for inspo for French summer outfits to stay chic all summer long.

Dress + Sneakers

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Instagram @camilleclnt

A white dress may be so ubiquitously cited as a staple of French fashion as to be cliché, but it’s also an unfailing classic that’s a wardrobe hero year after year.

Thanks to the breathable fabrics and neutral color palette, it is one of those timeless pieces that has been part of the French summer wardrobe for decades.  

Finish off with white sneakers for a casual day at the farmer’s market or book browsing. 

Dress + Sandals

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Instagram @mariellehaon


Nothing signals the warmer months style quite like floral prints. And if you’re looking for something elevated, a floral midi dress is the perfect summer attire.

Paired with strappy sandals and an understated leather bag, floral dresses will see you through the hot summer days and straight into autumn.

Tank + Skirt + Sandals

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Instagram @sofiaruutu


Breezy, poplin white skirts define the romanticism of French summer style. These flowy maxi skirts are the perfect blend of sophistication and style.

Adding a simple crop top and low heels are all you need to showcase this pleated midi skirt. 

Tee + Skirt + Flats

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Instagram @cristinahudacov

Parisian summer style is all about balance: pair a structured midi skirt with a boxy plain white tee made of cotton.

A basket bag and a pair of ballet flats are the perfect choice to finish off this summer outfit. 

Button Down + Skirt + Sandals

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Instagram @annelauremais


To combat the hottest days, put away your pants, and grab a mini skirt.

This type of skirt can be classic, which is the definition of French girl style, when paired with a button-down shirt and sandals.

For the illusion of even longer legs, wear shoes coordinated in the same hue.

Vest + Trousers + Flats

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Instagram @biancaderhy

One of the most versatile summer basics a French woman can own is a linen vest.

Pair it with straight-leg jeans, white jeans, or wide-leg trousers for a refined and sophisticated way to fight off the summer heat.

Head-to-toe neutral colors is easy going, yet undeniably sophisticated, and a favorite amongst Parisian women. 

Tank + Trousers + Sneakers

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Instagram @chloelecareux


Take style notes from the French and go simple for the summer.

Create a timeless, yet casual look when you lean into wardrobe basics like a tank top and simple sneakers.

Cardigan + Shorts + Sandals

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Instagram @tamaramory

A pair of denim shorts are a mainstay in almost every French woman’s capsule wardrobe.

For that French countryside flair, pair them with a fitted cardigan to add a bit of polish to this casual everyday staple.

Don’t forget your straw tote as you walk around the streets of Paris or the countryside. 

Tee + Shorts + Flats

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Instagram @alicepilate

Jean shorts are pretty versatile, making for quite the effortless summertime uniform to be dressed up or down.

For something elevated, A-line-shaped shorts with finished hems feel polished and comfortable.

The longer shorts feel elegant – a chic alternative for when it’s simply too hot to commit to jeans during those hot, summer months. 

Button Down + Shorts

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Instagram @solenelara


There is nothing chicer and more classic than a white button down tucked into a pair of shorts for the warm weather. The white shirt bypasses all trends and is timeless in any era.

A chic pair of sunglasses and straw bag are a classic summer pairing. 

Button Down + Shorts + Flats

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Instagram @leiasfez

When chosen correctly, a white blouses can be one of the hardest working pieces in your wardrobe – the beauty of it is that it can be easily dressed down or elevated.

Who would have thought it would pair perfectly with short shorts?