How to Build the Perfect French Spring Capsule Wardrobe
Here’s what real French girls wear to stay cute in the in-between season (without overthinking).
Spring is one of my favorite seasons, but it can be such a challenge to know what to wear. Here in France, I’ve been getting days full of sunshine and blue skies – followed by rain and cold.
Not ideal when you’re trying to embrace your inner French girl and always look chic and put together.
So here are a few tried-and-true classics that real French girls (including me) wear during that awkward “in between” season when you’re dying to leave your coat at home but can’t quite wear sandals yet either. I’ve included affiliate links so you can easily find similar styles.
1. A small scarf
A small scarf is one of those classics that’s absolutely indispensable in the spring. No kidding, I wear one almost every day. They’re chic, yes, but they also keep your neck warm when it’s windy out. And also? They’re really affordable. I’m kind of obsessed (okay, totally obsessed) with Sézane scarves like this one.
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2. A pink sweater or cardigan
A sweater or cardigan is one of those spring staples that you’ll reach for over and over again.
But my recommendation?
Don’t buy any old color. Choose pink. Honestly, I can’t recommend it enough. Pink is such a mood booster when it’s cold and grey out and you’re dying for some color in your life.
I used to be that person who only wore grey, black, navy, and blue… You know, safe colors. I hadn’t worn pink in years. Until one day, my sister told me, “Luba, you need more color in your life!”
And she was totally right. I now wear pink again and it’s a total game-changer. I love how @chloegnr styled her pink cardigan here:
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3. A blazer
Blazers are great for spring because they’re really versatile. You can wear them with pants, skirts, dresses – you name it. And when it’s windy out, they provide an extra layer (without being as bulky as a coat).
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4. A classic trench coat
If there’s one thing you’ll find in practically any fashion-loving Parisian woman’s closet, it’s this.
A trench coat is the ultimate transitional piece that you can throw on over practically anything to stay warm, dry, and really classy. I’ve been wearing trench coats for maybe ten years now (long before I moved to France!), and I still absolutely love them.
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5. White pants
Transitioning your wardrobe to spring is all about adding a few staples that are lighter and brighter, like white pants. They pair with everything, and you can wear them to remind you that the weather really is changing, even when it’s still rainy or cold out. Personally, I recommend a slightly cropped or flared cut for a Parisian edge.
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6. Fun leopard flats
Leopard flats are really popular right now and add a playful, unexpected touch to neutral outfits. They’re comfortable enough for everyday wear and look instantly stylish. (And if you’re tired of wearing winter boots, they’re a great option for the spring because you can wear them with tights.)
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7. A floral midi skirt
Nothing says spring quite like florals, and skirts are such a classy way to integrate French style into your wardrobe. During the spring and summer, I practically live in skirts and dresses, and these are the styles I reach for over and over. A colorful floral skirt looks great paired with a white button-up, like French girl @elodieromy wears here:
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Final thoughts
So there you have it! My roundup of seven pieces to make up the perfect French spring capsule wardrobe. Living in France has given me so much exposure to French women who have incredible style, but I’ve realized that dressing well doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.
Pick pieces you love, mix and match, and don’t be afraid to try new things. As I found out firsthand, it’s the best way to find styles that feel like YOU. And that’s what makes fashion fun.
What’s something you want to add to your spring wardrobe? Let me know in the comments!
Xoxo,
Luba
Note: I’ve included affiliate links (at no extra cost to you) so you can easily find these styles. If you buy using my links, I may earn a small commission. Thank you for supporting my work.