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    1. Fashion

    People in Paris Wear These Elevated Basics to Look Refined

    Elegant looks.

    Bobby Schuessler's avatar
    By Bobby Schuessler
    Published 6 September 2023 In Buying Guides

    When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

    Photo of Julie @leasy_inparis picking flowers wearing striped shirt
    (Image credit: @leasy_inparis)
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    We routinely turn to Parisians for outfit ideas. After all, words like effortless, chic, and fuss-free are often associated with this set’s aesthetic. Given their je ne sais quoi approach to style, easy basics are often at the forefront of their everyday looks. On that note, there are a few elevated basics people in Paris are currently wearing to look refined.

    Below you’ll uncover a sampling of the sleek and modern staples some of our favorite French women on Instagram incorporate into their ensembles to look elegant. As a preview, you’ll notice everything from stylish shorts to the shirting silhouette that reigns supreme. Want to add one of the basics to your offering? You’ll also find inspired shopping picks.

    Tailored or Linen Shorts 

    Instagram photo of AIDA BADJI in black top and white shorts

    (Image credit: @AIDABADJI_)

    A sleek pair of tailored shorts or a style in linen is perfect for the season and also quite elegant when paired with other basics.

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    H&M Linen-Blend Pull-On Shorts

    H&M Linen-Blend Pull-On Shorts
    $10 AT H&M

    J.Crew Pleated Capeside Chino Short

    J.Crew Pleated Capeside Chino Short
    $80 AT J.CREW

    BP. Woven High Waist Shorts

    BP. Woven High Waist Shorts
    $49 AT NORDSTROM

    Treasure & Bond Tailored Linen Blend Shorts

    Treasure & Bond Tailored Linen Blend Shorts
    $42 AT NORDSTROM

    Sanctuary Rose Bowl Cotton Blend Drawstring Shorts

    Sanctuary Rose Bowl Cotton Blend Drawstring Shorts
    $109 AT NORDSTROM

    High-Neck Tanks

    Instagram photo of Slyvie Mus in black top tan pants

    (Image credit: @SYLVIEMUS_)

    While classic tank tops are also very chic, a style with a higher neck feels instantly polished.

    Topshop High Neck Rib Halter Top

    Topshop High Neck Rib Halter Top
    $45 AT NORDSTROM

    Naked Wardrobe Turtleneck Top

    Naked Wardrobe Turtleneck Top
    $48 AT NORDSTROM


    FIFTEEN TWENTY Turtleneck Sleeveless Ribbed Sweater

    FIFTEEN TWENTY Turtleneck Sleeveless Ribbed Sweater
    $88 AT NORDSTROM


    BOSS Feskies Funnel Neck Sleeveless Rib Sweater

    BOSS Feskies Funnel Neck Sleeveless Rib Sweater
    $168 AT NORDSTROM


    Halogen Mock Neck Ribbed Sleeveless Sweater

    Halogen Mock Neck Ribbed Sleeveless Sweater
    $48 AT NORDSTROM


    Striped Shirts 

    Instagram photo of Julie @leasy_inparis in striped shirt and white pants

    (Image credit: @LEASY_INPARIS)

    Relaxed shirting continues to be a staple among the fashion crowd, including in Paris. A striped style is just perfection and can be dressed up or down.

    Topshop Stripe Oversize Cotton Blend Button-Up Shirt

    Topshop Stripe Oversize Cotton Blend Button-Up Shirt
    $65 AT NORDSTROM


    Alex Mill Mixed Stripe Shirt

    Alex Mill Mixed Stripe Shirt
    $70 AT ALEX MILL


    Madewell The Signature Poplin Springy Stripe Oversize Button-Up Shirt

    Madewell The Signature Poplin Springy Stripe Oversize Button-Up Shirt
    $88 AT NORDSTROM

    J.Crew Garçon Cotton Poplin Shirt in Stripe

    J.Crew Garçon Cotton Poplin Shirt in Stripe
    $55 AT J.CREW

    & Other Stories Stripe Cotton Button-Up Shirt

    & Other Stories Stripe Cotton Button-Up Shirt
    $79 AT NORDSTROM


    Denim Skirts 

    Instagram photo of Lena Farl in crochet top and denim skirt

    (Image credit: @LENAFARL)

    Whether it's a mini, midi, or maxi, the ideal denim skirt is a forward yet simple basic that can be styled with a variety of items.

    Mango Slit Denim Skirt

    Mango Slit Denim Skirt
    $70 AT MANGO

    Reformation Tazz Denim Maxi Skirt

    Reformation Tazz Denim Maxi Skirt
    $188 AT NORDSTROM

    Citizens of Humanity Peri Denim Pencil Skirt

    Citizens of Humanity Peri Denim Pencil Skirt
    $298 AT BLOOMINGDALE'S

    Rolla's Chicago Skirt

    Rolla's Chicago Skirt
    $129 AT SHOPBOP

    Good American Denim Maxi Skirt

    Good American Denim Maxi Skirt
    $189 AT NORDSTROM

    DL1961 Premium Denim Asra Mini Skirt

    DL1961 Premium Denim Asra Mini Skirt
    $169 AT SAKS FIFTH AVENUE


    Neutral Dresses 

    Instagram photo of Tamara Mory in brown dress

    (Image credit: @TAMARAMORY)

    Whether it's a slip dress or a simple cotton silhouette, a throw-on-and-go dress is inherently elegant.

    Reformation Suvi Knit Dress

    Reformation Suvi Knit Dress
    $178 AT REFORMATION

    Treasure & Bond Tiered Halter Maxi Dress

    Treasure & Bond Tiered Halter Maxi Dress
    $79 AT NORDSTROM


    Nordstrom Sleeveless Cotton Blend Dress

    Nordstrom Sleeveless Cotton Blend Dress
    $45 AT NORDSTROM

    Chelsea28 Cross Back Cutout Dress

    Chelsea28 Cross Back Cutout Dress
    $79 AT NORDSTROM

    Anine Bing Megan Dress

    Anine Bing Megan Dress
    $400 AT ANINE BING

    This article was originally published on Who What Wear. 

    Marie Claire Newsletter

    The ultimate daily digest for women of power, purpose, and style.

    By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.
    Bobby Schuessler
    Bobby Schuessler
    Social Links Navigation
    Market Director, Who What Wear

    Bobby Schuessler is the shopping director at Who What Wear, where he oversees the shopping and market vertical. He's also an experienced style writer and produces a range of fashion and style content for Who What Wear. He covers everything from the latest trends to the best fashion finds at retailers like Nordstrom and Shopbop to the chicest outfit ideas to consider for the season. He's also covered similar topics at other media outlets, including Refinery29 and Men's Health. In addition, his work and writing has appeared on the e-commerce platforms for major retailers like Nordstrom and Gilt.

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