Last summer, I spent a month in the South of France, an experience which reinforced my belief that French women are masters of warm weather dressing. Everywhere I turned, there was a chic display of fashion know-how: a white shirt tossed nonchalantly over a swimsuit; a designer basket bag slung over a sunkissed forearm; a cotton dress in the perfect shade of red.
Naturally, I’m looking to these style connoisseurs for guidance this summer too—with a whole new set of trends to navigate, I could use a helping hand. It should come as no surprise that Gallic women pick and choose their trends carefully. Known for their classic, comfort-first aesthetic, they’re not the type to step out in a look just because everyone else is. So when we see our favourite French influencers rocking a trend, we know it’s a good one.
This season, linen is a huge trend that’s officially received the coveted seal of approval. Calling it a ‘trend’ might be misleading, since it’s a fabrication that makes an appearance every year. It’s breezy, effortless and lightweight even in high temperatures—for all these reasons and more, linen has reached peak popularity in recent summers. Predictably, we’re particularly impressed by how French girls are wearing it, leaning into its easy-going nature and keeping the styling simple. Scroll on to see some of our most-loved linen outfits from the French fashion set so far.
1. White Linen Dress + Strappy Heels
Style Notes: Presenting the easiest formula on this list—all you need is a bright white dress that flatters you in all the right places, plus a comfortable pair of strappy sandals. Choose a low heel for the evening, or make the look daytime-appropriate with a ballet flat.
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Reformation
Delilah Linen Dress
Reformation dresses are made for summer.
M&S Collection
Faux Leather Cross Body Bag
THE ROW
Bare Leather Sandals
This simple silhouette will serve you for many summers to come.
2. Waistcoat + Linen Midi Skirt + Snake-Effect Sandals
Style Notes: Another trend French women have adopted? Waistcoats. To create an ultra-current look, team a longline version with a billowy linen midi. The nipped-in waist will give shape to the voluminous skirt.
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ALIGNE
Aligne Monika Waistcoat
Aligne’s waistcoats have basically gone viral this spring/summer.
By Anthropologie
Emily Acetate Oval Polarised Sunglasses
Such a timeless pair of sunnies.
Nobody’s Child
White Linen-blend Monie Midi Skirt
Pull this on over your swimsuit next time you’re headed to the beach.
TOD’S
Snake-Effect Leather Sandals
A subtle print that will elevate the whole outfit.
3. Linen Co-Ord + Cotton Shirt
Style Notes: Linen-cords were the hero buy of last summer, particularly shirt-and-shorts sets. This year, we’re seeing smarter, tailored versions like Julie’s cropping up on Instagram, giving a new look to the traditionally casual fabric.
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IRO
Dupa Striped Suit Jacket
The cropped silhouette was won me over.
Missoma
Dome Medium Hoop Earrings | 18ct Gold Plated
There isn’t a single outfit these hoops wouldn’t work with.
With Nothing Underneath
The Classic: Poplin, White
You can always rely on WNU for high-quality shirting.
IRO
Dorca High-Waisted Striped Shorts
Striped linen is a micro trend we expect to see a lot of this summer.
4. Linen Blazer + Blue Jeans + Sandals
Style Notes: No need to ditch your blazers in warmer weather; a linen iteration will keep you cool and is just as versatile as a wool blazer. For an understated everyday look that comes French girl-approved, style it with straight-leg jeans and minimal sandals.
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& Other Stories
Fitted Linen Blazer
Grab this before it inevitably sells out.
Whistles
Detachable Lois Crinkle Top
The straps come off so you can wear it bandeau-style too.
RE/DONE
70s Stove Pipe High-Rise Jeans
London Rebel
Toe Loop Strappy Heel Sandals in White
Skip the embellishments and opt for a streamlined sandal this summer.
5. Linen Shirt + Skort + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: The simplest way into this trend is buying a linen shirt. You can pick one up in most high-street stores, and you’ll find boundless ways to wear it. Äida makes a strong case for skorts with her elegant summer ensemble—I’m a big fan of the white-and-caramel colour palette.
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ZARA
100% Linen Basic Shirt
Tuck it into jeans, knot it at the waist and layer it over a dress or use it as a bikini cover-up.
Charles & Keith
Charlot Bag
Charles & Keith makes great everyday bags.
Once the weather cools again, just add sheer tights underneath and carry it into autumn.
Roger Vivier
Ivory Patent Trompette Ballet Flats
Ballet flats are a core component of French wardrobes.
6. White Tee + Linen Trousers + Trainers
Style Notes: Franny’s cool coffee date outfit epitomises just how relaxed this trending fabric is. If ballet flats and sandals feel too dainty for your taste, switch in a pair of chunky sneakers instead.
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The best tee on the high street, hands down.
mango
100% Linen Wideleg Trousers
I’ve just added these to my wish list.
New Balance
2002R Trainers
Comfortable and stylish in equal measure.