As a shopping editor with years of experience hunting down the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street, my friends often call on me for fashion advice. Whilst the weather takes a quick interlude from the high temperatures, I found myself daydreaming of warm days in the South of France, and evidently, I’m not alone. My best friend texted me to ask for help building her summer wardrobe, but with one precise demand: to create a French Riviera-worthy wardrobe on a budget. Luckily for her, I’d already found a series of refined pieces at Zara and H&M.
Julie wears the H&M Broderie Anglaise Cotton Blouse (£18)
When Zara and H&M launched their summer collections, I was immediately transported to the Côte D’Azur. The languid silhouettes, breezy textures, and refined details all embody the relaxed attitude of French dressers in the summer. At Who What Wear UK, we often look to our French friends for style inspiration due to their innate way of looking polished whilst relying on staple summer buys which can be restyled for endless outfits. Trust me, I’ve lived in the South of France and spent countless summers studying their effortless ease, and now I’ve curated a sophisticated edit which will exude French refinement whether you’re jetsetting this summer or simply strolling through the city.
The best part about embracing French style is that it depends on simple pieces that can hold their place in your wardrobe for years. Think a breezy linen shirt, wide-leg trousers and timeless basket bags that will outlast moving trends, but also feel incredibly considered. Silhouette sets the great pieces apart from the good, with long-line shorts over mini cut-offs, sweeping maxi and midi dresses, and of course, relaxed fits for added comfort on the warmest days. Below, you’ll find 12 pieces I sent directly to my best friend, as well as a few extras that will complement any refined French wardrobe.
Shop 12 French-Inspired Zara and H&M Buys:
ZARA
Zw Collection 100% Linen Embroidered Top
This top immediately went in my basket (and my best friends too)
H&M
Drawstring-Detail Ramie Dress
Elegant, timeless and refined.
H&M
Barrel High Waist Ankle Jeans
When French women wear denim in summer, they look to classic shades in interesting cuts.
ZARA
Rectangular Sunglasses
Sleek sunglasses are now an everyday essential.
H&M
Lyocell-Blend Shirt
This classic shirt will hold its place in your wardrobe for years to come.
H&M
Linen-Blend Bermuda Shorts
Every stylish person I know is looking to chic Bermuda shorts this summer.
ZARA
Jute Tote Bag
A great basket bag is a French girl favourite.
H&M
Crinkled Tie-Strap Dress
Layer in jewellery, sandals and the basket bag above.
ZARA
Embroidered Lace Pleated Blouse
This romantic blouse is sure to sell out first.
ZARA
Check Trousers With Elastic Waist
When French women embrace prints, check is always part of the conversation.
ZARA
Flat Leather Sandals
Call upon these sandals every single summer.
ZARA
Midi Dress With Cutwork Embroidery
I can’t stop thinking about this pretty dress.
Shop More French-Inspired Summer Buys:
H&M
Fine-Knit One-Shoulder Top
This shape is so pretty.
ZARA
Zw Collection High-Waist Denim Shorts
Add to your wardrobe now, rewear every summer.
H&M
Kitten-Heeled Sandals
Elevate your casual looks instantly with these sleek heels.
ZARA
Long Knit Crochet Dress
Look out for the pretty crochet details on this dress.
H&M
Broderie-Anglaise Cotton Popover Shirt
ZARA
Straight-Leg Pareo Trousers
Made from 100% cotton.
H&M
Crochet-Look Head Scarf
Accessories pull together summer looks.
H&M
Broderie Anglaise Strappy Top
I can’t believe this pretty top is still in stock.
ZARA
Z1975 Mid-Waist Barrel Jeans With Turn-Up Hems
Light jeans always feel fresh in the summer months.
ZARA
Embroidered Voluminous Midi Skirt
Rely on this set for an instantly chic look, or mix and match with the rest of your wardrobe.
H&M
Frill-Collared Blouse
Every summer we see stylish people wearing blouses with capri pants, skirts, jeans and more.
ZARA
Zw Collection High-Waist Linen Blend Trousers
Smart trousers which can move easily between the office and off-duty plans.
H&M
Leather Sandals
This pair comes in plenty of shades, but I know the black will be such a versatile addition to my wardrobe.
