Over the last several years, new contemporary brands from all over the world have been using French names to establish themselves as purveyors of cool, sexy, but totally effortless clothes.
These 10 indie labels, however, are the real deal. Born in France, with a deeply ingrained sense of French-girl style (which pivots on simplicity, sensuality, and confidence), these are the names to remember if you want to truly channel icons like Caroline de Maigret and Lou Doillon in real life.
Founded by French style icon Jeanne Damas (pictured), this affordable direct-to-consumer brand is all about down-to-earth basics and sexy but understated dresses that make you feel like a It-girl in your own right.
Seward cut her teeth at Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, and Azzaro before launching her namesake label in 2014 with the help of A.P.C.’s Jean Touitou. Her clothes are minimalist, but with a luxe-y, French girl twist.
This fmaily-owned, 50-year-old shoe brand is a go-to for French girls looking to pick up a new pair of motorcycle boots or high heels for less-than-Louboutin prices.
Founded in 2008 by three Parisian brothers, The Kooples is known for lean, rockstar tailoring and the kind of gamine dresses you could see cool girls like Charlotte Gainsbourg wearing.
French designer Isabel Marant launched her youthful diffusion line, Étoile, in 1999. The brand’s vintage-inspired jackets and boho dresses and tops are now cult-loved in their own right.
Marant’s husband, Jerome Dreyfuss, also has an uncanny ability to know exactly what women want to wear. His focus? Unique handbags that come in relaxed shapes and bold, gorgeous colors
Three-year-old direct-to-consumer label Sézane is becoming more popular in the States thanks to its recent collaborations with Madewell; the second installment of which just launched last month.
The epitome of French tomboy-chic, A.P.C, which launched in Paris in 1986, continues to hold court as every cool girl’s favorite place to shop.
When you think of French lingerie, you might think of frilly, delicate stuff, but Baserange’s pared down everyday basics represent a new generation of splurge-worthy undergarments.
If the French-girl uniform is a little too plain for you, you’ll appreciate Carven’s energetic, bright-color take on those everyday staples. But don’t let the playfulness fool you; the brand’s been around since 1945.