The French are tastemakers in plenty of things (wine, food, and architecture to name a few), but it’s safe to say their fashion truly sets them apart from the rest of the world with some of the most recognizable global styles. The often-emulated look can be defined by a certain carefree charm—a je ne sais quoi, if you will—that gives the wearer the look of refined elegance in something as simple as a T-shirt and jeans. And while the look is endlessly chic, it’s also highly versatile and functional, all of which are essential features of a smart travel wardrobe.
If your goal is to craft the most stylish yet practical packing list for your fall travels, we’ve taken notes from the French and rounded up nine brands with the most wearable pieces that are somehow cool, comfortable, and timeless all rolled into one. From cozy Sézane cardigans to minimalist leather Veja sneakers, these are the brands (and pieces) your suitcase has been missing—and we even found some eye-catching items on sale up to 60 percent off.
Sézane
Sézane is perhaps the epitome of classy French style, and the brand’s luxe knitwear is really just the tip of the iceberg of what it has to offer. Of course, the iconic Gaspard Cardigan is a worthwhile investment that works just as well as a chic in-flight layer as it does a bright statement during a chilly day of sightseeing—and considering it can be worn both forward and backward, you’ll find it easily to style in countless ways throughout your trip. Since a well-fitting pair of trousers are an everyday essential for some of the most enduring French muses (ahem, Coco Chanel) the Martin Trousers are a gorgeous tailored pick for under $200 that can be worn dressed up or made to look casual with a chunky pair of sneakers.
Maje
If you find your travel style leaning on the preppier side, Maje is the brand you’ve been looking for to help you build carefree, comfy outfits that exude French charm. The fall and winter collection is brimming with plaid patterns, moody burgundies, and oversized silhouettes, but if you’re looking for a more fitted piece, the Cropped Rib Knit Cardigan is a statement layer that you can now score for 40 percent off. Pair that with the Long Denim Skirt (now half off) and a bold pair of clogs, and you’ll be well dressed for the season and photo ready in pieces you’ll be eager to wear again and again.
Veja
Loved by style icons like Meghan Markle, Reese Witherspoon, and Kate Middleton, the French footwear brand, Veja, makes it easy to keep your travel style comfortable and sleek with a selection of simple, sustainably-crafted sneakers. The Campo Leather Sneakers are one of the most popular offerings from the brand (especially in white with black accents), and you’ll find they’ll pair effortlessly with everything from trousers to a floral maxi dress—just ask Travel + Leisure’s resident fashion expert. While the sneakers generally run for just under $200 at full price, you can also score marked-down styles like the sportier V-12 Sneakers (starting at just $112) or V-10 Primes (starting at $94) to upgrade your look for less.
Sandro
Sandro’s stunning selection of casual, elevated streetwear is destined for a spot in your travel wardrobe if you’re looking to infuse your style with French flair, and we even managed to find a number of must-have picks on sale for up to 50 percent off. The rugby shirt trend is just about everywhere this season, but now you can give the look a feminine twist with the knotted Striped Polo-neck T-shirt that’s relaxed enough to wear to the airport, but also a cinch to dress up with the perfectly tailored Mini Tweed Pleated Skirt.
Rouje
Founded by French model and style icon Jeanne Damas, Rouje is a love letter to feminine, flirty fashion, and its recent collaboration with J.Crew gave it a more affordable twist that you won’t be able to resist packing throughout the fall.
The Rencard Wrap Dress is a dreamy end-of-summer pick that can easily be styled with a snuggly cardigan to transition into the colder months. If you noticed the look channels a certain Carolyn Bessette appeal, you’d be right, as Damas credits the American sweetheart’s well-loved style as inspiration for the collection. For a more casual look, the Marin High-rise Flare Jeans will make for a great base, while the Fleur T-shirt is the perfect upgraded basic at just $50.
Lacoste
Lacoste is a beautiful example of the sportier side of French fashion, and you’ve no doubt spotted countless V-neck cardigans and polos from the brand over the years, all adorned with their iconic crocodile logo. The wearable pieces are attainable and endlessly stylish, with the V-neck Moss Stitch Cotton Cardigan functioning just as well as an airport layer as your favorite sweater for a fancy dinner, but it’s the effortlessly cool Oversized Denim Overshirt that’s the real star of the show. Select pieces from the brand just went on sale for fall, so now is a great time to pick up the relaxed Oversized Cotton Sweatshirt while it’s under $100.
Mephisto
Mephisto makes footwear that’s both comfortable and trendy, making French streetwear style attainable even in the United States. At up to 60 percent off, the Helen Thong Sandals are one of the best deals on French fashion we’ve spotted to round out the summer, while the casual Halina Clogs are another marked-down pick now available for up to 35 percent off. However, the Nikita Sneakers sit most closely to the styles the brand is best known for, and, while they’re indeed stylish, they also come with removable cushioned insoles that provide the arch support you need to stay comfortable while traveling.
Zadig & Voltaire
Lovers of edgy style will have trouble resisting the undeniable appeal of Zadig & Voltaire’s intentionally undone aesthetic, making it a go-to brand when you’re looking to channel the “I threw this on” look the French have made so popular. In fact, the Jonasson Cashmere Sweater is really the only sweater you need on your packing list this fall since it’s endlessly adaptable to be worn in a style that is preppy, casual, and everything in between. And combining edge and femininity, the Jayla Skirt will be another standout in your suitcase to carry you from day to night without being too flashy.
Longchamp
Longchamp is one of the standout French brands that make the casually cool style accessible even outside of Paris. And their packable, yet surprisingly spacious, totes and other bags and accessories are destined to become travel essentials, as they’re stunningly crafted and built to last. Naturally, the Large Le Pliage Tote deserves its flowers for its lightweight, roomy construction and timeless look. If you’re seeking a more unique investment, the buttery-soft Le Foulonné Passport Cover should do the trick to keep your important documents safe (and stylish) during your adventures.
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