Classic Parisian Inspired Pieces For Your Wardrobe
Parisian style is timeless and elegant, and it’s no wonder that it has been inspiring fashion for decades. From the iconic Breton striped shirt to tailored blazers, incorporating classic Parisian inspired pieces can elevate any wardrobe. These pieces are not only stylish and elegant but also versatile because they can be mixed and matched with your existing wardrobe. I love adding a touch of this vibe to my look and will even go full-on campy when the mood strikes! So, even if you’re not strolling along the Seine or sipping coffee at a quaint bistro, these classic Parisian inspired pieces can have you feeling effortlessly chic in no time..and they’re all on trend this fall.
Classic Parisian Inspired Jackets
Emilie Lady Jacket
When I was gathering research for this post, I stumbled into the history of the Breton stripe and learned it originated as a navy and white striped uniform within the French Navy in the 1800s. The stripes made their way out of the navy over the years and were adopted by fashion icons like Coco Chanel. Fast forward a century, and striped tops have become synonymous with French fashion. Adding a piece with stripes with this Emilie Lady Jacket is an easy way to add a Parisian flair to your outfit. XXS-XXXL.
Double Breasted Blazer
Blazers are also a staple in French fashion because they can easily transition from day to night, making them perfect for the busy and fashionable Parisian lifestyle. So, if you’re looking to add a little je ne sais quoi to your wardrobe, a blazer is a great place to start! This double-breasted black and white blazer will look great with jeans or styled over a column of black. XS-XL.
Cropped Lady Jacket
This fabulous piece from J.Crew is the elevated transitional third-layer piece you need this fall and winter to layer over your tees. I like that it hits slightly above the hip, so it will be flattering if worn over a dress, as well. Currently in stock in sizes XS-3X, but some sizes are selling out quickly.
U-Neck Jacket
Apparently, I’m on a tweed and boucle kick today, but I love the texture and warmth they add to an outfit, especially in the cooler months. How unique and fun is jacket from Ann Taylor? I love the double-breasted button front, u-shaped neckline, and subtle print on the trim. Available in Petite and Classic in sizes 00-16.
Parisian Inspired Dresses
Tuckernuck Cream Eleonora
Tuckernuck is a brand I discovered just a few months ago. When I was browsing their site recently, I found several classic and chic pieces that exude Parisian vibes, like this cream Eleonora dress featuring clean lines, a tailored fit, and a spread collar. Sizes XS and S are currently sold out, but it’s still available in M-XXL.
Black Tweed Jackie Dress
This dress is another find from Tuckernuck. If you’re looking to add a little Parisian flair to your wardrobe and you don’t mind a shorter dress silhouette, the black tweed Jackie dress is a great choice. You could also wear it with black tights if it feels on the short side for you. The combination of the braided trim, gold crest buttons, and high neckline make this dress so elegant and sophisticated. Sizes XXS-XXXL.
Parisian Inspired Accessories
French Sole Baton Heel
My feet aren’t happy in heels for long, but if you are one of the lucky ones who can tolerate a heel, these French Sole Baton Heels are absolutely stunning. The chunky block heel makes them easier to walk in, and the color-blocking gives off quintessential Parisian vibes. Currently available in sizes 6.5-10.
Printed Scarf
Adding a scarf to your outfit is a great way to elevate your style and add a touch of French-inspired flair. Wear it loosely around your neck, tie it around your hair in a low ponytail or bun, or knotted around the strap of your handbag.
Mother of Pearl Jaqueline Earring
When I think of Parisian jewelry, I think of chic, minimalistic jewelry that can go from day to night effortlessly, like these Mother of Pearl Jacqueline earrings or these pearl clusters, both from Tuckernuck. They’re just gorgeous.
Sam Edelman Loraine Loafer
These loafers look very similar to the ultra-popular Gucci loafer, but this pair is much easier on the wallet! They come in lots of colors and prints in buttery soft leather and come in wide sizes. I’ve heard lots of people rave about this style and how it has become their favorite shoe.
French Twist Mini Hoop
If you prefer a daintier earring, you’ll love these French twist mini hoops. They are a great pair of everyday earrings that complement your look while letting your outfit shine.
Birdies Goldfinch
A great ballet flat is an essential Parisian girl shoe that is timeless and never goes out of style. When I am shopping for a flat, I am looking for comfort, quality, and versatility. These beautiful black woven leather pointed-toe flats from Birdies check all of my boxes. Sizes 5-11.
Shop More Classic Parisian-Inspired Pieces:
Do you like the Parisian-inspired vibe? What’s your favorite?
Thanks for reading and be sure to wear what makes you feel confident.
Right up my alley as love – love everything. Now off I go to check out the Birdie’s footwear as on a mission to purchase some ballet flats. Thank you Jennifer.
Love French style and most of the looks. I think the Express jacket is great if you work and don’t expect your jacket to be an investment piece. With the wider lapels, which are in this year, and the piping/trim, the jacket won’t stand the test of time, although maybe a good tailor could help when styles change.
I love the look! Navy blue and white are my go to neutrals. I still love the Jackie look. She had classic style and really put those Chanel suits in the limelight in my youth. However, I live where dressed up is clean jeans and a clean shirt. Probably a tee. But I can dream. Thank you.
Im always drawn to stripes, so classic. The simple scarf with the white blouse is timeless.
I love the Jackie dress in the croissant color! I am on the list for when it comes back in stock in my size. I plan on wearing it with my beige with black capped toe block heeled pumps. Thanks for this post! I love all things French and Jackie!
I love the sound of your outfit!!
Follow up on Monday’s discussion about keeping it real. Some personal info: 75 years old, 5’6”, 135 lbs (gained 5 lbs while on 7 week vacation to my sister), sporty and active my entire life. Have back pain up and down entire back. PT and chiropractor did not help but was told I have rotated pelvis. Had X-rays and blood tests. Results: mild arthritis, mild scolioses, mild inflammatory markers, all common in those over 65. Referred to a manual PT, as opposed to traditional PT. Lose the 5 lbs to take pressure off spine. Take turmeric and boswellia. Precipitating event was a 7 hr drive with heavy, speeding traffic, even though I stopped 3 times to stretch. Hope this info helps someone.
Thanks for sharing, Linlee. Driving is si hard on my back too.
I used to have back pain too. I am about your size and 71 years young. I do the exercises from the book Foundation by Eric Goodman and Peter Park. I now do the exercises once a week, initially did them several times a week. They are yoga type exercises and easy to do. Now it only takes me about 10 minutes to do them. They have eliminated my back pain. The book can be gotten on Amazon.com.
I would buy that J Crew jacket in a minute if it did not have wool in the fabric. I live in Florida where you NEVER need wool! bummer
I’ll keep an eye out for a cotton one
@Linda & Jennifer: Re a cardigan jacket. You might be interested in one that Macy’s carries as fabric is a cotton and polyester blend and is currently on sale on their Canadian website so suspect it is on the American one as well. Search: Under sweaters/cardigans – CeCe Textured Knit Patch Pocket Cardigan – comes in black and also in antique white – only has one review but it is positive.
-Brenda-
Thank you, Brenda!
I love Breton shirts for casual wear. Boden offers a nice selection and I just purchased one from J Crew on sale that is a lightweight knit – perfect for fall. I just wish fall would hurry up and get here!
Fatface often has nice Bretons are reasonable prices.
Even though I love French style, most of these are dressier than I usually wear. After two visits to Paris in recent years, I love the people/fashion watching! On another note, I love when you model clothes in the dressing rooms. You are real with the same body/skin/hair issues that real people have. I get so tired of seeing the tall, thin, young models that no one is in reality, especially in my age group. Most of the customers I see in my local Talbots and J Jill are women 50+ with a range of body types , yet their catalogs feature the image of flawless young women. Of course I know the motivation behind their strategy: “you can look just like this beautiful model if you buy this outfit!”
Thank you for being real and helping us wear clothing, style our hair, take care of our skin so we are confident in doing our best to be our best!
I’m so glad it’s helpful. Many brands show clothes on models, younger than would ever wear their clothes. Chico’s is a culprit here. I never see women as young as their models in the store shopping.
How I love those Tuckernuk dresses! Unfortunately, at 5’8” they are just too short for me to feel comfortable. I guess I could do black tights and booties but I wish they were longer. And here to vouch for the Sam Edelman loafer. They are truly the most comfort shoes, I could walk miles in them. I have black and brown, wouldn’t mind navy.
I love the loft jacket too!
I need to get those loafers!
I really love everything about this look! Parisian fashion has always been so interesting. These sweater jackets seem to be everywhere this season. I found one at the Rack but it didn’t fit right so I’m still on the lookout.
Hi Jennifer
Thanks for doing the shopping for us I really enjoy your posts each day. I ordered the black n white cardigan from Loft, can’t wait for it to arrive! I love the classic looks.
Laurie Ann
I love that look
I love French style j’adore!
Me too!
I loved EVERY item pictured! I am seriously thinking of buying the striped Breton jacket. Tweed French jackets never go out of style in my mind. I think it is time to get mine out now.
Classic, which is why I love them!