I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: My aunt is one of my biggest style inspirations. In my 29 years as her niece, I’ve never seen her looking anything short of ultra chic and pulled-together, so it should come as no surprise when I tell you that it’s her job to help people find their personal style. Practically everyone in our family goes to her for style advice (myself included), and since we both work in fashion now, I’m constantly texting her about everything from the coolest trends to know to what I’m considering buying.
Right now, my aunt is just as infatuated with the effortless vibe of French style as my fellow editors and I are. When we compared shopping lists, both of ours were littered with Parisian classics like easy flats, classic jeans, and pretty silk tops that are incredibly chic and timeless. I thought it would be fun to put my editor skills to the test and curate a Nordstrom shopping list for my aunt of all the items that will help her create a French-inspired wardrobe.
Pendleton
Hazel Canvas Jacket
Women in Paris are setting aside their blazers for Prada-inspired canvas jackets right now.
Levi’s
Ribcage High Waist Straight Leg Jeans
Jeans this classic will never not be relevant.
aeyde
Zoe Kitten Heel Bootie
Fall ’24 is all about suede, but then again, French women have been wearing it for decades already.
Alice + Olivia
Harmony Satin Camisole
Satin tanks are the ultimate investment basic.
Madewell
Essentials Suede Bucket Bag
My aunt specifically asked me for new work bag options. I sent her this luxe tote that I’m debating buying for myself, too.
Nordstrom
Strapless A-Line Dress
A timeless LBD is one of the first things on any French style shopping list.
Schutz
Ciara Slingback Pointed Toe Kitten Heel Pump
Topshop
Polka Dot Satin Maxi Dress
Polka dots are basically a neutral.
Fifth & Ninth
Taya 53mm Polarized Oval Sunglasses
Sorry, but no other sunglasses style need apply.
Madewell
Signature Oversize Button-Up Shirt
You can’t walk one block in most Paris neighborhoods without spotting a great button-down shirt.
Madewell
The Harlow Linen Wide Leg Pants
From the south of France to Normandy and back—white trousers are everywhere.
Style these with white socks if you know what you’re doing.
Sanctuary
Essential Sleeveless Mock Neck Shirt
Alex Mill
Stripe Button Back Cotton Crewneck Sweater
Everyone in northern Europe is waiting to break theirs out the moment fall weather hits.
Intimately
Carrie Tube Top
I own this and will recommend it to anyone who will listen. Trust me—you’re going to want it in every color.
Mango
Leopard Print Jeans
Leopard print never went “out” among French girls, but now that it’s trending again, a pair of printed pants feels the most Parisian.
Mansur Gavriel
Dream Ballerina Flat
Black flats are great and all, but a cherry red pair is even more forward.
Nocturne
Button Designed Midi Skirt
I’m suggesting a full skirt like this to my aunt if she’s going to set aside her jeans at all.
Nordstrom
Camilla Leather Belt
Regret-free and absolutely essential.
Free People
Low Back Seamless Long Sleeve Top
I love the look of a simple black top with blue jeans, a combination French women wear multiple times a week.
Madewell
The ’90s Straight Leg Jeans
Forget denim trends—this classic shape is all your wardrobe really needs.
Nordstrom
Relaxed Fit Pima Cotton Crewneck T-Shirt
T-shirts should be boxier.
Another French wardrobe non-negotiable.
Madewell
Handwoven Leather Tote
For the beach and beyond.
Bardot
Lace Trim Cutout Satin Midi Slipdress
Jeffrey Campbell
Trustee Pump
These actually look so expensive.
