With my minimalist style and penchant for elevated basics, I always turn my eye to the stylish women of Paris, France, whenever I’m in a fashion slump. French fashion has that je ne sais quoi, and thankfully, I don’t need a designer budget to master the vibe in my capsule wardrobe. All you need to do is browse the new-in section at H&M.
The retailer is home to all of my favorite French-inspired fashion must-haves, including everything from striped button-downs, pops of cherry red and navy blue, and lots of perfectly tailored summer denim. The finds on this list cover all of your end-of-season bases—they could be fashioned into office-ready outfits and then pull double-duty as must-haves on your next far-flung European vacation.
Keep scrolling for my edit on the affordable H&M finds a chic Parisian would love—and add to her cart. Whether you score some elevated neckline tops, staple linen pants, or rich-looking dresses, you can rest assured these picks are nothing short of polished and won’t cost you more than $100.
Linen pants are a wardrobe staple no matter where you live.
Why wear a basic T-shirt when this polished knit exists?
H&M
Shirt Dress With Belt
This is what a French girl would wear to work in the summer.
Consider this a more polished option than a T-shirt.
H&M
Dressy Linen-Blend Pants
I’ve noticed Europeans are opting for beige trousers over denim more and more.
Stripes and a polo neckline are a match made in heaven.
H&M
One-Shoulder Mesh Top
Pair this pretty top with black trousers and you’ve got a Parisian going-out outfit.
Give your basics a French girl twist with this rich-looking tank top.
H&M
Flared Linen-Blend Skirt
Slim jeans are a French-girl staple.
This lacy top would instantly elevate your go-to jeans.
Whether you pair this top with trousers or denim shorts, the finished look is sure to be elegant.
Polo tops like this are a polished option to wear with all of your denim.
H&M
Wide-Leg Pants With Tie Belt
H&M
Sleeveless Denim Dress
I could easily see a chic Parisian wear this dress on vacation in St. Tropez.
The ruffle hemlines on this top is such a cute detail.
H&M
Wide High Ankle Jeans
For when you feel like wearing color, red is a French girl favorite.
Prepare to wear this cardigan all throughout the fall.
French girls picked up polka dots long before we did in the States.
This dress may seem simple, but that’s exactly what gives it a French girl vibe.
It doesn’t get much more “French” than a stripey cardigan that can take you from summer to fall.
