Even before I moved to France, I was fascinated by the way French women dress. Growing up in London, I’m accustomed to the eclectic stylings of the city, but during my time in the south of France, I found that the most subtle dressers were the most impactful. Whether watching fellow shoppers at the local boulangerie or scanning for outfit inspiration over a candle-lit dinner, the consistent theme throughout was an understated elegance that always felt completely effortless. Naturally, ever since, I’ve wanted to replicate the elegant nonchalance of French dressers. And currently, COS has so many pieces that I know my Gallic friends would adore.
Franny wears a cardigan and trousers from COS.
The draw of immaculately dressed French women comes from the simplicity. Basics are relied upon to do the heavy lifting, meaning that you don’t need to spend thousands on branded monograms, but rather, turn your attention to finer design details like refined cuts, sharp tailoring, and sophisticated shades. Lucky for us, COS is an expert in all of those areas.
The brilliance of a French-inspired wardrobe is that it becomes a uniform. The pieces can be reworked into various cohesive outfits without feeling repetitive. Trusted pieces are called upon, from classic jeans to reliable knitwear, but when turning away from bold shades its the finer design details that make these outfits a standout. Think a subtle barrel-leg form over a wide-leg or a refined funnel-neck knit that will hold its place beyond the trend cycle. Just a few smartly designed additions can create the illusion of innate French style, even when they’re high street buys.
Below, I’ve handpicked the 9 pieces a sophisticated French woman would shop first at COS, plus more elegant French-inspired buys.
Shop the 9 COS Buys French Women Would Shop First
COS
Double-Faced Wool Long Cape
A dramatic silhouette in an understated shade? Yes, please.
COS
Pleated Wool-Blend Tapered Trousers
COS is known for its excellent tailoring, and this tapered pair is set to join the brand’s stellar roster.
COS
Croc-Effect Leather Loafers
Stylish people across the globe are relying on loafers when styling off-duty and office looks.
COS
Ribbed Merino Wool Jacket
This 100% wool knit is taken to all new heights with the bold neckline.
COS’s Arch jeans are a beloved style. This season, give your straight-leg pair a rest and let this subtle barrel silhouette be the main event.
The understated shoulder bag you can take from day to night.
COS
Rounded Double-Faced Wool Jacket
When it comes to finer design details, this jacket has them all. The notched collar, the wool and lyocell blend, and the dropped shoulders come together to make a seriously refined jacket.
COS
Belt-Detail Funnel-Neck Wool Vest
Pair with smart tailoring, easy jeans or flowing skirts.
COS
Curved A-Line Midi Skirt
I’m immediately thinking of all the ways I’ll style this. First up, with the top above and a pair of classic knee-high boots.
Shop More French-Inspired COS buys
COS
Voluminous Pleated Blouse
Ready your wardrobe for an evening out or dinner date with this polished blouse.
COS
Flocked-Denim Barrel-Leg Trousers
Add a tactile update to your wardrobe with these flocked-denim trousers.
COS
Saffiano Leather Belt
Considered accessories from jewellery to belts bring a great look together.
COS
Merino Wool Funnel-Neck Cardigan
Personally, I can’t believe this cardigan is still in stock. Make layering up a styling choice with this refined knit.
COS’s best-selling clean cut t-shirt now comes in this deep burgundy shade. The boxy cut is my personal favourite.
A sleek finishing touch for your French-inspired outfits.
COS
Tailored Pima Cotton Shirt
No matter the season, a great shirt will always feature in a capsule wardrobe. Give your classic white style a rest in favour of this sleek deep brown shade.
COS
Pleated Barrel-Leg Wool Trousers
The pleats! The cut! The shade! Every detail of these trousers look so high-end.
COS
Paradigm Mini Tote Bag – Suede
Yes, COS’s handbag collection has a distinctly designer feel. This one is spacious and sleek in equal measure.
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