The 10 items my Parisian friends are buying right now
Your summer capsule wardrobe is sorted


As a French fashion editor, one of the things I most get asked about is how Parisian, or French women as a whole, achieve that world-recognised chic and timeless style.
I know which Spring/Summer 2025 pieces I'm loving at the moment, but having moved to the UK 15 years ago, my tastes have become far more eclectic, so I thought I'd ask my Parisian friends instead, and here is what they're buying.
The summer dress
Marissa Cox, Content Creator & Writer (Instagram & Substack), who has lived in Paris for over a decade says, "I love By Malene Birger, as it does really great detailing, whilst remaining minimalist. The embroidered lace on this dress is beautiful, plus the dress would make the perfect summer coverup."
For Albane Criscione, Chief of Staff and French bank BNP, it's all about the simple slip dress: "I love the Spanish vibes of this red dress, it's perfect for wearing in the city and on holiday."
The denim
Marissa says, "I wear a lot of denim, so naturally it's showing up on my summer wishlist! This button down dress is a really flattering modern feminine silhouette."
The jacket
A timeless leather bomber jacket is what's on Elodie Graham, Head of Global PR at Manu Atelier's wishlist this season. She reveals: "The Frankie Shop bomber jacket is also a must-have piece to have in a Parisian wardrobe. It’s really hard to find the perfect leather jacket, I’ve always loved an oversized leather jacket, I don't like fitted ones as they are too classic for me. This one is the perfect mix between bomber and jacket, I also love the fact it’s leather, for me its super important to have a real leather jacket that will last forever and see it change through the years. That bomber with a straight jean is the perfect combination of laidback elegance."
For Julia Mateian, Content Creator, Consultant, Talent Manager and Cafe Owner, a boxy blazer is a must. "Business is always on my mind, especially when wearing a structured blazer to create a sophisticated, polished silhouette," she says.
The sheer blouse
"I love subtle layering and adding sheer pieces to my wardrobe this Spring is the best way to do it. Paired with solid pieces for a modern, yet elegant effect," Julia says.
The crochet piece
"Crochet co-ords are a Parisian must-have, and I've fallen in love with this Sezane set", explains Albane.
Marissa adds: "I plan on wearing a lot of crochet and broderie this summer, as it's light and airy and this is a lovely shape."
The smart sandals
Marissa says, "I've been trying to add more pops of colour to my wardrobe in the shape of accessories and these ruby red sandals will work with everything."
For Albane Criscione, who doesn't often wear flats, a pair of glittering platform thongs is the way to go. "These sparkling Coperni heels embody dopamine dressing," she says.
The go-with-everything flats
"A beautiful pair of loafers! I am obsessed with the YSL ones but there’s also the most perfect pair from Massimo Dutti and much more affordable" says Elodie.
The hat
For something casual, Elodie backs Celine's new Triomphe hat, perfect with a white t-shirt and high-waisted jeans.
For a dressier option, try a Capeline hat, as recommended by Albane to recreate those Brigitte Bardot vibes.
The bag
Albane says, "There's something so inherently classy about Longchamp, and this mesh bag is a lovely re-imagining of one of their iconic styles".
For Elodie, it has to be Manu Atelier's best-selling Cambon in Tobacco green of course.
Julia is also eyeing up a tote bag this season, the Bottega Cia Ciao, adding, "I used to love mini bags but all I want now is some extra space for my personal belongings while making a statement."
The swimwear
Marissa says, "Swimwear with belts are really flattering and this is one of the best I've seen. The little shell detail on the belt adds a fun twist."
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Penny Goldstone is the Contributing Fashion Editor at Marie Claire UK. She writes about catwalk trends and the latest high street and Instagram sartorial must-haves. She also helms the Women Who Win franchise.
She has worked in fashion for over 10 years, contributing to publications such as Cosmopolitan, Red, Good Housekeeping, and Stylist.
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