French Chic Style: Why It’s So Flattering After 50
There is no secret that French women of any age always look chic and timeless, possessing a certain French chic style. What is it about their fashion style that sets them apart? In the United States we tend to be overwhelmed by trends, fast fashion, and overconsumption. Instead, the French follow a much simpler, more refined approach in getting dressed – one that is particularly flattering to women over 50.
If you’re looking to master this French chic style, here are some of the key elements that French women follow.
Timeless vs Trendy
French women focus on buying fewer, higher quality classic items that will last a lifetime. They tend to be of better quality and have more flattering silhouettes, thereby giving them a French chic style. When I think of timeless style, I picture Audrey Hepburn’s black turtleneck, cigarette pants, and ballet flats. Or Brigitte Bardot’s feminine dresses, cropped pants, and off the shoulder sweaters. As Bardot once said, “I’m proud I created a style that doesn’t go out of fashion—because I was never fashionable!”
French Chic Outfit Idea:
- A tailored blazer over jeans and tee.
- Add ballet flats for a relaxed but polished look.
- Add minimal accessories like a black bag and sunglasses.
This simple blazer, tee, and jeans in my mind is the epitome of French chic style. It’s simple, timeless, and yet polished, making it perfect for everyday wear. A well-tailored blazer elevates the look, while the classic tee keeps it on the relaxed side. Pair these with fitted jeans of your choice and ballet flats or sneakers and this outfit embodies the je ne sais quoi that makes French fashion so perfect for any woman, especially us over 50.
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Neutral Colors
If you peeked in the closet of a French woman, you would most likely find a neutral color palette. Neutral tones like black, white, beige, navy, and gray are always in style, so it’s no surprise that they are the foundation of French chic style. Neutral colors go with everything and make getting dressed so much easier! These shades are perfect for women over 50 as they tend to soften our features and help us look more polished. If you start with a neutral base, you can throw in a pop of color or interesting accessory without looking over the top.
French Chic Outfit Idea:
- A white poplin skirt with a black and white striped tee.
- Tie a cashmere sweater around your neck.
- Add black Mary Janes to complete the look.
Here, a white poplin skirt is paired with a black and white striped tee. Tie a matching cashmere sweater around your neck and add some black Mary Janes and you have a great example of how neutral colors define French chic style.
Feminine
French chic style embraces femininity in a very subtle way. I think of soft fabrics, maybe a silk blouse, skirt, or scarf, gold buttons, and of course the classic little black dress. The goal is to aim for a hint of femininity, rather than overdoing it. French style is about confidence, not excess. Subtle femininity is a look that softens and celebrates the beauty that comes with age, making it perfect for women over 50.
French Chic Outfit Idea:
- A fitted turtleneck with a flowing skirt.
- Knee boots add sophistication.
- Keep jewelry minimal, simple earrings or a delicate necklace.
A soft turtleneck, silk skirt, and boots capture classic French femininity. The fitted turtleneck combined with the flowing skirt elevate this simple style and the boots finish off the outfit, giving it a refined look. A simple French chic style that is both romantic and demure!
Less is More
French women are experts in applying the less is more concept. French chic style is all about choosing fewer, high quality, versatile pieces. This allows them to mix and match the pieces in their wardrobe and they are not afraid to repeat outfits. They simply do not need all the pieces that we feel we have to purchase new every season. The less is more approach is also applied when it comes to accessories and makeup. After 50, we know our bodies and what looks good on us, and by investing in fewer, timeless, and comfortable pieces we can achieve that effortless French chic style without the stress!
French Chic Outfit Idea:
- A crisp, white button up, tucked into linen trousers.
- Add sandals or ballet flats for comfort.
- A straw tote gives a polished, but relaxed look.
This is an outfit I could wear everyday! I just love the classic simplicity of it. The white button up along with the linen trousers show how an elevated outfit can be created with just a few basic pieces. Add some sandals or ballet flats and a straw tote and you have a polished French chic style.
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Comfort & Confidence
Now we get to what I feel is the heart of French chic style. French women choose pieces that feel as good as they look – soft knits, well-tailored pieces, classic denim, and neutral colors. As a result of this, they don’t sacrifice comfort for style, which I know we have all done at one time or another. Gone are the days when I would even attempt to wear a pair of high heels. French women are more comfortable in ballet flats, loafers, or sneakers, and they know that with comfort comes confidence. This confidence in wearing what looks good on you and feels good at the same time, creates a natural elegance, which looks great on all of us!
French Chic Outfit Idea:
- A navy knit sweater with white trousers.
- Pair with Chanel pumps or sleek loafers.
- Add a structured handbag for a polished look.
This outfit shows a great example of comfort and polish. A simple pair of white trousers worn with a navy knit is an effortless chic style. Add some Chanel pumps and a bag to give it that classic French chic style.
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The key to mastering French chic style isn’t about following strict rules—it’s about wearing timeless, well-chosen pieces with confidence, knowing that true chicness comes from how you carry yourself. By following these key elements, any women over 50 can create a wardrobe that is timeless French chic style, where you look and feel your best!