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?
This is what a French girl would wear to work in the summer.
Consider this a more polished option than a T-shirt.
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.
A trendy tailored vest like this never fails to look polished.
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.
White skirt outfits are so polished, so add this find to your closet ASAP.
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.
There's about a million ways to style this button-down shirt, but a chic French girl would pair it with staple denim and ballet flats.
Polo tops like this are a polished option to wear with all of your denim.
Wear these chocolate brown pants for a rich-girl vibe.
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.
Pair these jeans with a monochromatic top for an easy all-white look.
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.
I have a feeling that Paris residents are loving the scarf-as-belt trend.
