Embodying and purveying that nonchalant style is Sézane, a brand that, since its inception, has become synonymous with quintessential French fashion. Its timeless, feminine pieces – from floaty dresses and perfectly tailored blazers to accessories that add a final touch of understated glamour – have amassed a devoted following both in France and throughout Europe.
Yet, Sézane is just one amongst a chic gaggle of contemporary French fashion brands, each bringing its own unique spin on Gallic elegance. For those who want to expand their wardrobes with a soupcon of French flair, we've rounded up a list of our favourite French brands available to shop in the UK that capture the same effortlessly cool, authentically Parisian spirit.
Rouje
Founded by style icon Jeanne Damas, Rouje has become a by-word for French-girl cool. Like Sézane, it channels that coveted nonchalance, with a focus on vintage-inspired prints, flattering silhouettes, and effortlessly feminine designs. Rouje’s midi dresses, blouses, and skirts transport you straight to a sun-dappled Parisian boulevard, while their range of red lipsticks promises to give you that perfect je ne sais quoi.
What We Love: The beautiful blush-hued cropped faux fur Archi Jacket, £325, which we’d wear with everything from jeans to evening dresses.
Musier Paris
For those who lean towards the edgier end of French fashion, Musier Paris is a must-know label. Launched by influencer Anne-Laure Mais, Musier blends modern minimalism with a subtle retro sensibility, offering pieces that are both wearable and statement-making. Think asymmetric tops, figure-hugging dresses, and a restrained colour palette that feels utterly sophisticated. Like Sézane, Musier champions French craftsmanship, producing in limited quantities to ensure sustainability.
What We Love: The double-breasted, pin-striped Long Timeless Coat, now €310, whose boxy, masculine cut gives it a cool edge – perfect for throwing over a little black dress to nail Parisian flair.
Balzac Paris
If you love Sézane’s classic lines and romantic details, you’ll feel right at home with Balzac Paris. Named after the famous French writer, the brand is known for its timeless silhouettes, floral prints, and sustainable approach, focusing on environmentally friendly fabrics and production methods. Balzac’s approach to fashion leans towards the ‘buy less, but better’ mantra, a philosophy which is evidenced in the brand's impeccably crafted essentials, from delicate blouses to coats that never go out of style.
What We Love: The Cyrielle Shirt With Red Cowboy Print, £125, in red cotton poplin – it has everything: the ruffled collar, cowboy references, a joyfully autumnal colour. Perfect with jeans or a long skirt cinched in with a belt.
Maje
Maje does the more polished end of the Parisian fashion spectrum to perfection. Best known for its stunning knitwear, embroidered dresses, and playful accessories, it walks the line between the traditional and the contemporary, its pieces sophisticated but never staid. Timeless with a soupcon of whimsy.
What We Love: This Short Tweed Jacket, £359, has all the classic Chanel vibes we could wish for from a tweed piece.
Claudie Pierlot
Since 1984, Claudie Pierlot has been delivering that easy, breezy French-girl look with a hint of gamine charm. Much like Sézane, the brand champions a distinctly Parisian vibe, with tailored pieces that can easily transition from day to night. Its whole vibe is about structure and softness – expect sophisticated outerwear, elegant separates, and playful dresses.
What We Love: This round-necked patterned jumper, £269, which offers a playful take on sophisticated apres ski-wear – perfect for teaming with a classic black mini skirt or a good pair of jeans.
Ba&sh
Founded by best friends Barbara Boccara and Sharon Krief, Ba&sh is all about natural fabrics and timeless cuts, practicality and beauty. Its collections are brimming with floaty dresses, chic knits, and bohemian blouses, all underpinned by a commitment to responsible production.
What We Love: The Sailor Maxi Dress, £290, which is both romantic and chic all at once.
Sandro
Sandro, launched by Evelyne Chetrite, offers the perfect fusion of sharp tailoring and soft, feminine details. It is known for creating those investment pieces that form the backbone of a French wardrobe, from perfectly cut trousers to statement jackets and blouses with just the right amount of romantic flair.
What We Love: We can’t envision anything more perfectly Parisian than a Peter Pan collared LBD, as demonstrated beautifully by this Velvet Dress, £359?
