It’s a cliché because it’s true – Parisienne style is always in fashion. These women are somehow born knowing how to put an outfit together. Who better to teach us their mysterious ways than our original French girl style icon Isabel Marant?
 
After analysing the label’s spring/summer 2023 collection like we were studying for an exam, we’ve landed on our top 8 French style lessons.


1. The 90s Are Cool Again

Mixing leather with silk and crochet with skin, today’s Isabel Marant girl looks like she’s straight out of a Corinne Day editorial. Chiffon silk tops were covered in shimmering metallic embroidery while slip dresses flirted with baggy cargo pants. Also seen on her runway were low-rise bottoms and a faded camo print reminiscent of the Y2K era.

 

2. Bras Are Totally Optional

The French are famous for being somewhat anti-bra – it's all about a subtle hint of sexuality that adds just a little bit of cheeky sex appeal to relaxed, casual outfits. If you're not that brave, a flash of beautiful lace lingerie will work too.

 

 

3. Thin Straps Balance Floaty Shapes

A sense of extreme lightness radiates from French girls. They love a floaty, feminine blouse that’s barely there yet big on ruffles. The key to not being swamped by these shapes appears to be a return to delicate spaghetti straps – at least on Isabel’s catwalk.

 

4. Sizing Up Is Sexy

For the French, sexy comes in all shapes and sizes – and it doesn't necessarily require a lot of bare skin either. Slouchy pants and the ubiquitous killer heel make for a fresh look that’s sizzling hot and high on cool factor.

 

 

5. A Leather Jacket Is A Worthy Investment

A good leather jacket is a purchase you’ll never regret – it’s perfect in winter with biker boots and jeans or thrown over a summer dress for a tougher take on date-night dressing.

 

6. Basic Black Is Anything But

Black will always be the French girl’s non-colour of choice. In a world of dopamine dressing, an all-black ensemble suddenly seems so grown up and just right.

 

 

7. So Sheer, So Chic

Cover and uncover, reveal and conceal: for the French, seduction is a game best played subtle, transparent and lined with lace – cue Marant's see-through specials, the best complement for suede heels, bronzed skin and delicate lingerie. 

 

8. Anyone Can Wear Short

You heard it first here – above-the-knee hemlines are back and stronger than ever. It’s time to free the legs with dresses and skirts gently ruffled at the hips as per Isabel Marant’s signature aesthetic.

 

SHOP ISABEL MARANT

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