I just returned from Paris—there were these specific summer outfit combinations everywhere I looked.
While many of us envision Mediterranean vacations and the accompanying wardrobes during July and August, I would argue that some of the finest summer styles can actually be found in the heart of the world’s fashion capitals—especially Paris. Despite the city's recent heat wave, or perhaps because of it, the fashion in the French capital is particularly vibrant at the moment. I recently returned from a trip to Paris, where I walked along the Left Bank, shopped in the Marais, and enjoyed evenings out in Pigalle. Everywhere I went, I was keenly observing what the city’s most stylish residents were wearing. Although the style identities in Paris are as varied as its neighborhoods, I noticed some recurring themes that were hard to miss. Heading back home, I felt so inspired by the fashion that I felt compelled to share the popular warm-weather looks among the French right now.
Bandana + Tank Top + Midi Skirt
One accessory that is currently a favorite on the streets of Paris is the bandana. Whether it’s a traditional bandana or a printed silk scarf, the trendsetters are incorporating these into their hairstyles to add a fashionable touch to their summer outfits. I saw many individuals using them as a stylish finishing detail with basic tank tops and graphic tees.
Almina Concept U Neck Tank
Reformation Helen Low Waist Midi Skirt
The Peacock Crew 4 Pack Sky Blue Paisley Bandanas
Graphic Tee + Printed Bottoms + Flip-Flops
On the topic of graphic tees, I was surprised to see so many of them. During my shopping excursion in the Marais, I likely spotted around 20 different graphic tees. They came in fun color combinations and featured playful slogans in both English and French. The outfit combination of a tee with a printed skirt and flip-flops exemplifies how I observed people wearing them.
RE/DONE Classic Tee Endless Apertivo
LIONESS Shoreline Midi Skirt
Reformation Jessie Thong Sandal
T-Shirt + Drawstring Shorts + Ballet Flats
While there were touches of color throughout, I definitely noticed a lot of neutral looks, particularly an emphasis on all-white outfits, paired with contrasting accessories for balance. I frequently saw white jeans and white drawstring shorts as popular choices.
Free People Menorca Slouchy Capris
Massimo Dutti High-Heel Ballerinas
Caftan + Bold Jewelry + Woven Bag
As the heat wave took hold, the fashion adapted as well. I noticed a plethora of breezy caftan dresses—pieces that hardly cling to the body—worn alongside a single statement piece of bold beaded jewelry, like a necklace or bangle, to enhance the artistic vibe.
NEST Turquoise Beaded Necklace
Madewell Handwoven Leather Tote
White Blouse + Colored Shorts + Ballet Flats
Regardless of the current trends, the French remain devoted to the timeless combination of shorts—whether denim or a trendier option like taffeta—and a lovely white top. It captures the playful contrast between a bohemian top and sporty bottoms beautifully.
GERARD DAREL Ceylia Embroidered Ruffle Detail Shirt
DONNI Striped Silk Taffeta Mini Shorts
Tony Bianco Chelsea Ballet Flat
Matching Skirt Set + Woven Bag
If you haven't gathered by now, a romantic bias-cut skirt is somewhat of a wardrobe essential for the French, and a lovely midi-length skirt serves as the foundation for countless outfits. When they aren’t pairing it with a tee or tank, I often saw matching tops like halters.
SIMONMILLER Mini Shelly Mercado Bag
Button-Down Shirt + Capri Pants + Baseball Hat
Yes, capris are still very much in vogue, and French women are still embracing them. However, rather than dressing them up, I noticed a more casual styling approach, such as pairing them with an oversized button-down shirt and a baseball cap for a laid-back look. It feels trend-driven without appearing forced.
Rails x Giadzy Giada Shirt
Open Edit Stretch Twill Capri Pants
Polo Ralph Lauren Classic Sport Cotton Baseball Cap
Loose Tank + Bermuda Shorts + Flat Sandals
When it comes to shorts, the trend leaned toward longer styles during my visit. Track shorts, sporty board shorts, and Bermuda shorts seemed to be favored, often paired with flowy tank tops for a relaxed vibe.
MATTEAU Scalloped Broderie Anglaise Cotton Top
Gap Factory Relaxed Stripe French Terry Shorts
Tank Top + Silk Pants + Minimalist Sandals
On the minimalist end, I observed numerous elegant staples on French women, particularly silk bias-cut pants, which have been a favorite all year long. For the summer, stylish individuals are wearing these with silk tanks and strappy sandals.
Reformation Veya Silk Top
Reformation Gale Satin Mid Rise Bias Pant
LOEFFLER RANDALL Karly Leather Sandals
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I just returned from Paris—there were these specific summer outfit combinations everywhere I looked.
I’ll be recreating them immediately.
