Ooh la la and how to get it

French women are world-renowned for their style and glamour but they’ve got some tricks. Here’s five of the best.

Invest in quality You won’t find French women rooting through the rails in Primark, H&M and New Look – their wardrobes are filled with expensive, good quality items that stand the test of time. Instead of buying cheap clothes often, invest in one or two luxury pieces you can wear again and again. Create a capsule

A 2018 survey found UK shoppers own £10 billion worth of clothing they never wear. In France, stylish women adhere to a capsule wardrobe. The French Five-Piece Wardrobe Plan often contains a plain tee, timeless jeans, a tailored blazer, a statement skirt, and a little black dress. Parfait. Buck the trends

Keeping up with the latest en vogue looks can be costly, especially when so-called fast fashion goes out of style within just a few months. Emulate Parisian chic by avoiding trends that will quickly date, opting instead for classic lines, simple colours and well-fitting individual pieces that last from season to season. Earn your stripes

Yes, French ladies really do love a Breton stripe. Wear your nautical t-shirts and jumpers with jeans – preferably Levi’s – and you won’t look out of place strolling down the boulevard. Update your look from day to night by adding a blazer and simple court heels. Keep it simple

Don’t overdress, don’t clash patterns, and don’t over-complicate your look. The key to French style has always been simplicity. As fashion icon Coco Chanel once said of accessorising, “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take at least one thing off.”