We here at Who What Wear have written extensively about French style. From the denim outfit combos they love to the elevated basics they covet to the winter coats they’re wearing this season, we’ve thoroughly examined the chic way that French people get dressed—so much so that I feel I can confidently predict what’s currently in their carts.
Elegant boatneck tops? Of course. Double-breasted wool coats? You bet. Croc-embossed D’Orsay pumps? 100%.
I decided to apply this theory to Nordstrom and create a list of the items I know Parisian women would find chic. I landed on 34 pieces that capture their effortless, elegant essence. Toteme’s scarf coat made the list, of course, so did Ref’s cashmere cardigan, Ralph Lauren‘s signature button-down, and Mango‘s chocolate suede shopper.
Basically, if a French girl walked into Nordstrom in 2026, these are the elevated items she would purchase on the spot.
When people say effortlessly chic, this is what they mean.
Reformation
Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan
Sam Edelman
Sylvia Knee High Boot
Now those are good boots.
LAMARQUE
Callie Double Face Wool Coat
Collarless outerwear is the moment.
Favorite Daughter
The Jordan Leather Belt
French girls know a great belt adds instant polish.
TOTEME
Chain Stitch Wool Blend Scarf Jacket
Steve Madden
Nula Pointed Toe Half D’orsay Pump
Favorite Daughter
Amelia Rib Merino Wool Turtleneck Top
Nordstrom
Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
PSA: This comes in 20 colors.
MANGO
Mica Pointed Toe Slingback Pump
The satin is a nice touch.
Lauren Ralph Lauren
Longline Wool Blend Reefer Coat
Tailored coats are a staple for French girls.
Turtlenecks are another essential.
Reformation
Elton Mid Rise Straight Leg Jeans
There’s no denim style more elevated than an ultra-dark wash.
Polo Ralph Lauren
Oxford Cotton Button-Up Shirt
Quintessentially French girl.
MANGO
Medium Suede Shopper Tote
Suede adds a nice texture element.
Open Edit
The Curator Trousers
The tailoring is perfection.
Madewell
The Greta Ballet Flat
Of course ballet flats made the list.
Reformation
Avery Boatneck Knit Top
STAUD
Sebastion Slingback Pointed Toe Pump
This shade of nude just feels right.
Reformation
Camilla Tie Waist Silk Shirt
Nordstrom
Cashmere Lined Leather Touchscreen Gloves
Leather gloves are the accessory of choice in the winter.
Agnelle
Christina Lambskin Glove Lined in Cashmere
The brown is lovely as well.
Favorite Daughter
The Jasper Wool Blend Wrap Coat
Yes to the coat and the styling.
TOTEME
Sharp Pointed Toe Croc Embossed Slingback Pump
Polo Ralph Lauren
Linen, Silk & Wool Herringbone Sport Coat
Reformation
Jadey Oversize Cashmere Sweater
The V-neck is having a resurgence, and this color is gorgeous.
MANGO
Audrey Half D’orsay Pump
These look infinitely more expensive than they are.
MANGO
Wool Blend Wrap Coat
A very chic way to stay warm in the winter.
Calvin Klein
Caterine Knee High Boot
Suede boots always look expensive.
Almina Concept
Wool V-Neck Sweater
I love it worn over a T-shirt like this or alone.
MANGO
Caro Ruched Long Sleeve Midi Dress
This silhouette is so flattering.
MANGO
Mica Pointed Toe Slingback Pump
Far more interesting than black pumps.
Vince
Boiled Cashmere Funnel Neck Pullover
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