I Went to France and Saw Everyone Wearing These 5 Basics on the Streets of Paris

Consider these pieces your new capsule wardrobe.

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(Image credit: sylviemus_)

I recently took a lovely vacation to Paris. When I got back, my friends and family asked me about my favorite part of the trip. I naturally rattled off all of the delicious food I ate and the museums I visited. But I also noted my adoration for simply sitting at a cafe and watching the street style. As a lover of French style (that effortless je ne sais quoi is just so covetable), I adored seeing how Parisians dress in their day-to-day.

While the types of looks I saw ran the gamut, many of the ensembles featured effortless basics that Parisians are known for wearing to look chic. There were actually five specific styles I spotted the most on the streets of Paris. Below you’ll uncover the list, along with visual inspiration. I also shopped out each of the basics in question if you’re interested in adding a fresh style to your wardrobe.

Double-Breasted Blazers

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The temperature was in the 10s for most of my time in Paris, so layering pieces were key. I saw double-breasted blazers everywhere—especially with simple tops and jeans. A blazer brings instant polish to any look.

Simple Skirts

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Skirts were incredibly popular teamed with sneakers, loafers, or flat sandals. The style sort of ranged—either simple knit styles or in satin.

Relaxed Button-Down Shirts

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The button-up down (particularly in relaxed cuts) reigned supreme in every neighborhood I visited. I noticed a plethora of classic white styles and also blue-striped silhouettes.

Denim Jackets

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Given the slightly cooler temperatures when I visited Paris (especially in the morning and at night), denim jackets seemed to be a go-to choice (in addition to blazers). I noticed many looks where the jacket was buttoned all the way up—almost like an alt to a top.

Baggy Jeans/Trousers

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I saw baggy trousers and denim everywhere—styled most often with flats or sneakers.

This article was originally published on Who What Wear.

Bobby Schuessler
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.