Women's fashion: 17 basics to have in your wardrobe

Knowing how to dress well is, ultimately, a bit like knowing how to cook well. Beyond the technical side and taste, the same key element is found in a good recipe as in a good outfit: good basics .

Think of your wardrobe as a well-stocked fridge or pantry, armed with the essential ingredients (salt, pepper, butter, eggs, milk, flour, etc.) for anyone who wants to whip up a delicious little dish. Your basic, timeless pieces are the foundation of your style. Once you have mastered them, all you have to do is add the finishing touches here and there that will make your look unique and unique.

What basics should you focus on? What are the essentials of a woman's wardrobe, those reliable, easy and durable pieces that you can count on when you don't know where to start? How to choose them and which brands should you turn to?

We've put together the ultimate guide for you - like a big recipe book, but without the cooking time because between us, it's not recommended to put a trench coat in a fan-assisted oven. A complete list of the basics to have in your wardrobe, which is not to be followed to the letter: pick from it according to your desires, take the advice you need, and above all, have fun.

TIMELESS TOPS IN THE WOMEN'S WARDROBE

1. A WHITE T-SHIRT

This is the most famous and popular of the basics. Mixed, versatile , it can be worn in all seasons and can boast of being THE piece to turn to on mornings when you have no inspiration for getting dressed. Casual clothing par excellence, it can be transformed into an ally of elegance when combined with beautiful jewelry that it highlights thanks to its minimalism.

HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR WHITE T-SHIRT?

The simpler a garment is, the more the devil is in the details. To start, turn to a model made of natural material (cotton, linen, hemp), thermoregulating and more durable, as opposed to synthetic (polyester at the top of the list), which is much less recommended. For the cut, opt for a model fitted at the shoulders, but with ease at the chest. If you want to tuck it into a skirt or pants, make sure it is long enough (but not too long, so as not to create folds).

A FEW MORE POINTS TO CHECK:

• The overlocking of the t-shirt must be regular (this is the seam located at the ends of the piece, which prevents it from fraying where the fabric has been cut)
• The structure of the collar must be solid - otherwise it may deform over time.
• Has the cut been well thought out? To make sure, lay the t-shirt flat. If it sits askew, it means that its seams are "twisting" and that its manufacturing is not of very good quality

To find out more, check out our t-shirt guide right here:

HOW TO WEAR YOUR WHITE T-SHIRT?

We could tell you that it goes “with everything”, but even if that’s true, here are some combinations that guarantee you a flawless look:

• with a flowing patterned skirt, a pair of heeled sandals and a basket bag
• with blue straight jeans, a blazer and heeled ankle boots
• under a colorful costume
• tucked into leather pants and paired with an open denim shirt
• with high waisted shorts, low top white sneakers and a cardigan
• under a blazer in a natural shade, with black jeans and black sneakers

WHERE TO BUY A WHITE T-SHIRT?

• Organic Basics: A pure white model in 100% GOTS-certified cotton , close-fitting, and with the ideal length to tuck into high-waisted pants.
• BonneGueule : We offer you one knitted in Portugal, in organic cotton and recycled cotton, with a cool, slightly oversized cut that flatters the figure.
• Everlane: Offered for less than 30 euros, this organic cotton t-shirt with a slim fit stands out with its heather white color with a vintage look, to pair with denim.
• You can also go to: Petit Bateau, Les Sublimes, Balzac, Patine, Solstice Editions, Asket, Colorful Standard.

2. THE PERFECT WHITE SHIRT

Picked from the men's wardrobe, the white shirt now has a special place in the women's wardrobe. Chic and timeless, this chameleon piece can be adapted to suit different styles and desires.

HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR WHITE SHIRT?

Opt for a durable model with an impeccable cut , which you will keep for as long as possible: pay attention, therefore, to the material and the details. Ideally, choose one made of 100% cotton.

Check the size of the collar and its fit, as well as the fall of the piece. Run away if one side of the collar is longer than the other, or if unsightly folds appear - they are surely caused by poorly executed sewing. The seams, themselves, must be regular, and the stitching must follow the curve of the garment.

If you want to tuck your shirt into your socks, don't choose one that's too long.

HOW TO WEAR YOUR WHITE SHIRT?

In a professional setting, it is the best ally of a suit or a pencil skirt. In everyday life, the white shirt can be worn in a more casual way, slightly open, with jeans or high-waisted pants.

In winter, it can be worn layered under a beautiful knit, leaving its collar visible, or over a fine turtleneck. In summer, slip it into your suitcase: it can be worn open over a swimsuit or tied over a light dress for cooler evenings.

WHERE TO BUY A WHITE SHIRT?

• BonneGueule : For a chic cotton popover shirt, light but not transparent.
• Figaret: The brand offers around thirty references of white shirts in silk, crepe, linen or poplin, to choose according to your preferences and body shape, for around a hundred euros.
• Les Sublimes: There is an oversized and ethical version, designed to mimic the one we stole from our partner's closet, but better, because its collar has been narrowed, its bottom rounded and its cuffs adjusted, for a more feminine cut.
• Bourrienne: For high-end.

3. A BEAUTIFUL KNIT

A wardrobe without a knitted item (sweater, vest, cardigan, etc.) is an incomplete wardrobe. Essential in winter to keep warm, a pretty knit is also a very useful garment to create transitional looks between seasons, for example by layering it over a little summer dress.

HOW TO CHOOSE A BEAUTIFUL KNIT?

Ideally, choose natural materials that will keep you warm and last over time (wool, cashmere, mohair, alpaca, etc.), and avoid pieces that contain polyester, polyamide or acrylic (as David explains in this article , you may have a real crush on an original model with such a particular design that it is impossible to find an alternative without synthetics - but in the case of a good basic, we recommend that you do not give in and bet on a durable piece).

For winter, wool is the most common material for knitwear. Good to know: if you have sensitive skin, be careful with virgin wool, which stings (because it is not treated and retains small scales that surround each fiber). Avoid, therefore, if you prefer "comfortable" sweaters (or wear with a skin knit that will act as a barrier between the material and your body).

For summer, you can opt for cotton, linen or even silk knits, lighter and finer materials.

As for the cut, round necks, high necks and turtlenecks are safe bets. The V-neck will be less easy to wear, and its exposed throat increases the risk of catching a bad cold during the winter period.

HOW TO WEAR AND CARE FOR BEAUTIFUL KNITWEAR?

Warning: knitwear is fragile. Always follow the care instructions on the label: wash by hand or on a delicate cycle . Dry flat. A wool comb can be used to maintain knitwear, and a lint remover (manual or electric) can remove any unwanted pilling. Finally, keep moths away by placing a few drops of essential oil or cedar balls in your cupboards.

In terms of looks, a nice big cable-knit sweater goes just as well with jeans as with a wool skirt and thigh-high boots, for a seventies-inspired look.

Cardigans can be worn open over a pretty blouse or buttoned and tucked into pants. You can also mix knits with more summery pieces to create contrast. Here, white jeans and a basket.

WHERE TO BUY A BEAUTIFUL KNITWEAR?

• Balzac: A large selection of romantic sweaters and cardigans, in all colors. You will find classics made from beautiful materials (cashmere, merino wool, etc.), such as a red turtleneck sweater or a sailor shirt, as well as colorful cardigans decorated with beautiful buttons. The majority are knitted in France, the rest in Europe.
• L'Envers: For high-quality sweaters made to order in natural wool or organic cotton, in small family workshops in Spain. Modern versions of the chunky Irish knit are offered, thick turtlenecks but also vests that can be worn both inside out... and inside out.
• The Mechanics of the Sweater: Knits with flattering cuts, made from recycled wool yarn (obtained from production scraps from the spinning mill).
• Vintage: The second-hand market is full of beautiful, high-quality knits that have stood the test of time (and survived rough wash cycles). Take a look at thrift stores or online, especially if you're on a budget: that's where you'll find the best pieces at the best prices.
• But also: Le Slip Français, Saint-James, Armox Lux, Rodier, La Ferme du Mohair, Eric Bompard, From Future...

TIMELESS STOCKINGS FOR WOMEN’S WARDROBE

1. JEANS THAT FITS YOUR FIGURE

It is to bottoms what the t-shirt is to tops: a popular, comfortable, easy and essential piece that will never go out of style. There are as many cuts and shades of jeans as there are styles.

HOW TO CHOOSE JEANS?

Finding the perfect pair of jeans, the ones that fit like a glove, seems like an endless quest. We don't really have a magic formula to reveal to you, but what we can tell you is that the only secret is to try on several until you find the right one.

SOME POINTS TO CHECK TO ENSURE THE QUALITY OF A JEANS:

• its canvas must be regular, with a smooth appearance
• its coloring must not be faded or dull
• If washing, check that the fabric has not been damaged during the process (if it is too thin, it may develop holes very quickly)
• The stitches should be tight, not too fine, and aligned.

To learn everything about denim, head to this video .

And what exactly is a good jean? It's one that's comfortable , has a shade that goes with the rest of your wardrobe, and is easy to wear in all seasons (very light blue denim that tends towards pastel blue, for example, is more complicated to wear in winter). It's also one whose cut perfectly hugs your figure and makes you feel like the best version of yourself (it sounds easy said like that, we know).

And because we're talking about a durable basic here, choose a model without frills : no studs, no rhinestones, no torn bottoms, and especially no holes (the author of this guide makes this a personal battle).

HOW TO WEAR JEANS?

Automatically associated with casual looks, jeans can also rhyme with elegance when mixed with chic pieces, like a silk blouse or a blazer. Depending on your style and what you want to convey, opt for a straight, slim or flare cut, it's up to you.

White jeans, which suffer from a bad reputation (dirty, considered fattening by decades of women's press), are a bright option to adopt in summer, but not only: we challenge you to wear them in winter with a big white sweater too.

WHERE TO BUY GOOD JEANS?

• Patina: For jeans inspired by the 1980s but modern, well-cut and eco-responsible.
• Atelier Tuffery: High-quality jeans, handmade in the Cévennes, with real know-how.
• Second-hand: The second-hand market is full of Levi's, Lee, and Wrangler pairs, which are much more solid in quality than the models offered by these same brands today. Be careful: the sizing of the time is different from the current one, so take at least two sizes above your usual size.
• BonneGueule : For raw jeans in GOTS organic cotton and comfortable stretch fabric. We also offer an off-white model.
• Everlane: They have a variety of styles with different wash levels, at affordable prices. Our favorite: the Way-High, which flatters the figure thanks to its high waist that elongates the legs.
• But also: Naked&Famous, Officine Générale, APC, Balzac, Maison Standards, Le Pantalon.

2. CLASSIC AND EFFECTIVE CITY PANTS

Dressier than jeans, classic pants are a basic to turn to when you want a more formal and elegant look. They are also popular in the context of a job that requires professional attire.

HOW TO CHOOSE PANTS?

Make sure the waistline is well adjusted (even if it means having it taken in by a tailor), but with enough space to slip in a top or blouse if necessary. As for the material, opt for cotton canvas (especially if the pants are also intended to be worn in summer) or wool.

For the cut, a 7/8 length will always be flattering, and allows you to wear the pants with a nice pair of pumps but also loafers or white sneakers. Be careful: if you are more part of the heeled ankle boots team, opt instead for a longer, straight or flared model.

HOW TO WEAR PANTS?

• Serious style, in taupe, gray or navy blue with a matching blazer, shirt and city shoes (flat or heeled).
• In the evening, tuxedo style, in a total black look with a fitted jacket, a white shirt and vertiginous pumps.
• Romantic and urban, with a buttoned cardigan and a long coat (like the look below).

• Casual, with a printed t-shirt and a pair of sneakers.
• Retro, with a romantic blouse and ballet flats.

WHERE TO BUY PANTS?

• Admitted: Very well-cut and figure-flattering models, made in Paris.
• Brava Fabrics: If you are looking for colorful chinos, in organic cotton.
• Comptoir des Cotonniers: For beautiful dress pants, wide or cigarette cut.
• Uniqlo: Small budgets will find what they are looking for with the “Smart Pants” model, a 7/8 length model that comes in several colors. Be careful, this brand has recently been criticized for its lack of transparency regarding the manufacturing of its pieces.

3. A MIDI SKIRT

Some love the mini skirt, others prefer the maxi skirt that falls to the ankles. The right compromise? The midi length, which is the easiest to wear regardless of your height and build, and adapts to all circumstances. The midi skirt should fall below the knees, but well above the ankles.

HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR MIDI SKIRT?

Flared or pencil, flowing or tight, straight or wrap… it all depends on your lifestyle and what makes you most comfortable. For flowing, flared and airy versions, opt for lightweight materials: cotton, viscose, silk, Tencel… Straighter and tighter skirts will have more shape in linen or cotton, and become a rock asset when they are in denim or leather.

If you choose a pleated skirt, make sure that the pleats are regular, clean and fine, and that the fabric holds up well, so that the garment keeps its appearance even after being put in the washing machine. The pleats must go all the way to the bottom of the skirt.

HOW TO WEAR YOUR MIDI SKIRT?

In the summer, you can wear your skirt with a t-shirt (plain or printed), a pair of beautiful sandals, sneakers or mules. When the weather gets cooler, pair it with a sweater or cardigan, ankle boots or even a pair of high boots for a more retro style.

WHERE TO BUY YOUR MIDI SKIRT?

• Reformation: The reference for fluid, feminine and romantic wrap skirts, with just the right amount of sexy touch thanks to a well-thought-out slight slit on the leg.
• Aatise: For straight and flared wrap skirts that are well cut and fitted, very flattering for the figure, made in France.
• TwoThirds: The brand offers fitted and flared midi skirts, classic but with a twist, in organic cotton and at an affordable price.
• Thinking Mu: There are straight or flared models, with clean cuts, made from certified organic Tencel or organic cotton.
• Second-hand: Resale apps such as Vinted, Le Bon Coin, Depop and Jaiio are full of great deals - and thousands of skirts. Refine your searches according to the color and size you are looking for. Be careful: many skirts are made of polyester, a poor quality material that risks deteriorating over time.

THE OTHERS

1. A LITTLE BLACK DRESS

From Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's to Kate Moss on the Met Gala red carpet, the little black dress spans the decades, fits into every style and adapts to every body shape. A refined piece , but not only that.

HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR IDEAL LITTLE BLACK DRESS?

Choose the cut that suits you best according to your body shape but especially according to what makes you most comfortable: there are as many shapes of little black dresses as there are bodies. The wrap dress, which can be adjusted at the chest and waist with a tie, is undoubtedly the one that will be the easiest to wear.

In terms of materials, avoid polyester as much as possible, as it makes you sweat. Instead, opt for viscose (if it is EcoVero certified, it is even better), which is fluid and requires little maintenance, or cotton (extra point if it is organic). You can allow yourself a little elastane for comfort, but if possible no more than 5%.

HOW TO WEAR THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS?

Versatile, this piece can be worn casually with a denim jacket and sneakers or elegantly, by pairing it with a trench coat, a pair of heels and a leather bag. Practical for the office under a blazer, it can be transformed into an evening outfit with a clutch and gold jewelry.

In summer, wear it in satin and with spaghetti straps, with nude lace-up sandals.

The little black dress is rock under a leather biker jacket with boots, retro with a beret and a pair of derbies, ... in short, the “LBD” (Little Black Dress) is what you want to make of it - you just have to make it your own.

WHERE TO BUY THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS?

• Ysé Paris: the brand offers a black mid-calf dress with an efficient cut, accompanied by sensual details: a low-cut back, a slit on the leg, close-fitting jersey... For those who like to be chic without compromising on comfort.
• PeopleTree: there are several references of black midi or long dresses with a timeless design, in organic fabric, like their “Mathilde” wrap dress.
• ArmedAngels: this committed German brand offers several GOTS and Fair Wear Foundation certified black dresses, from around sixty to around one hundred euros. Modern, romantic or sportswear, there is something for every style.

2. A TROUSERS JUMPSUIT

It is the easy garment: the one you put on when you don't know what to wear, which is comfortable and only requires a few accessories for the look to be complete and effective. It is also an ideal piece for big occasions such as a summer wedding.

HOW TO CHOOSE A PANTS JUMPSUIT?

Be careful to find the right balance when it comes to volume. The jumpsuit should be fitted at the waist (you can add a belt to structure the silhouette) but not too tight at the hips and thighs, at the risk of unbalancing the silhouette and being very uncomfortable. Conversely, a model that is too oversized will tend to give an unsightly look, and can give the impression of a neglected look.

HOW TO WEAR A JUMPSUIT?

The combination requires little effort for those who are fans of minimalist style, or who do not have time to imagine elaborate outfits. It can be combined with a pair of sneakers as well as with pumps, big military-inspired ankle boots or loafers. The denim version works wonderfully with a scarf around the neck and suede ankle boots.

WHERE TO BUY A JUMPSUIT?

• Project Cece: This e-shop dedicated to eco-responsible brands offers a wide choice of combinations, for all styles and budgets.
• Parisienne et alors: Beautiful everyday combinations inspired by work overalls, colorful and in corduroy, practical for everyday life.
• Les Récupérables: Upcycled pieces designed to suit all body types.
• 5:10 p.m.: A more expensive but as chic as possible option, inspired by the office suit but with a more sensual dimension thanks to a beautiful neckline.
• But also: Septem, Make My Lemonade...

THE JACKETS

1. THE ICONIC TRENCH COAT

The "trench coat" is a must-have mid-season jacket. Elegant, classic and sturdy , the trench coat (or simply a trench coat for short) never goes out of style, structures the silhouette, protects from the wind and brings a "je ne sais quoi" to any look.

HOW TO CHOOSE A TRENCH COAT?

We advise you to choose it in a light natural shade (beige, nude, camel, ecru), easier to match and above all, timeless. In terms of length, choose models that come at least below the knee: shorter, the cut can tire more quickly, and will not mix as well with skirts or dresses.

As for the material, this is one of the few pieces where polyester should not be a hindrance : it ensures that the cotton of the gabardine does not crease too much but above all, contributes to the waterproofing of the jacket. Be careful, its percentage should not be higher than that of cotton either.

In terms of fit, the sleeves should cover your wrists, but not your hands.

HOW TO WEAR A TRENCH COAT?

Closed and belted for a structured and feminine look as possible or nonchalantly open to highlight the outfit it covers, the choice is yours. The trench coat goes wonderfully with flowing floral dresses in a retro style, but also with denim or leather.

WHERE TO BUY A TRENCH COAT?

• Rodier: A long, water-repellent model with an oversized volume for maximum comfort and a rock touch. Made in France.
• COS: For a modern version without visible buttons, with pretty volumes and details.
• In consignment stores and thrift stores: You can find beautiful vintage pieces at very low prices, the Holy Grail being of course to find a Burberry - the reference in terms of trench coats. Be careful, many counterfeits circulate on the second-hand market.

2. A VERY WARM WINTER COAT

It is your best friend to face the cold and bad weather. It is often a small budget, but do not hesitate to invest in a good quality piece that will keep you warm and that you will keep for a long time.

HOW TO CHOOSE A WINTER COAT?

While it may be tempting to turn to colorful and vibrant models to combat the gloom of winter, start by treating yourself to a versatile model that will go with your entire wardrobe: black, navy blue, gray, camel or taupe are safe and timeless values ​​that are hard to get tired of.

The ideal is a coat made of wool, a robust and insulating material. More and more models on the market contain polyester, especially those at lower prices. If the coat of your dreams contains it, make sure that the percentage of wool is the majority.

For the cut, make sure that its length matches your height but also the other pieces in your wardrobe: if you like long skirts and dresses, opt for a very long coat that will not break the silhouette.

Finally, choose one that fits snugly at the shoulders but with enough room to wear a thick sweater underneath.

HOW TO WEAR A WINTER COAT?

• Black, with a white shirt, straight jeans and black shoes
• Camel, with a light or pastel sweater
• Grey, with navy blue and ankle boots
• Structured with a chunky contrasting leather belt
• Off-white, on a heather gray suit

WHERE TO BUY A WINTER COAT?

• Gérard Darel: For beautiful woolen cloth coats, in classic and effective cuts and timeless and easy-to-wear colors.
• Saint James: The right address for very good quality pea coats and duffle coats.
• BonneGueule : An elegant silhouette, comfort and a very warm wool and cashmere blend.
• & Other Stories: Large selection of coats with well-designed, chic and comfortable volumes. Be sure to check the composition of the different models.
• But also: A Kind of Guise, Officine Générale, COS, Noyoco...

3. A CHIC BLAZER

This is the jacket that can be worn in all seasons : practical in mid-season for spring and autumn, it will slip under a coat in winter for an extra layer of protection. On chillier summer evenings, it can be placed on the shoulders.

The blazer has the gift of enhancing any outfit thanks to its structure and its “serious” side that you can completely tone down with the right combinations and accessories.

HOW TO CHOOSE A CHIC BLAZER?

Unlike men who have to follow certain rules (see our blazer guide here), women are freer to have fun with the dimensions of the blazer. The latter can be worn fitted but also more oversized, as if you had stolen it from your boyfriend's, roommate's or grandfather's closet.

To make it as durable as possible, choose wool rather than polyester (it will be even more comfortable to wear).

HOW TO WEAR A CHIC BLAZER?

• With dark jeans and a shirt a casual chic look

• With a printed t-shirt and ankle boots for a more rock style.
• Structured with a beautiful leather belt to highlight its waist.
• With a dress so we want to break the feminine side

WHERE TO BUY A CHIC BLAZER?

• ARKET: Minimalist, slightly oversized blazers in 100% wool.
• Salut Beauté: Simple or colorful models with a very retro aesthetic. Rather original models that will mix wonderfully with more minimalist outfits.
• Maison Standards: The French brand offers several models, including an oversize presented as “crease-resistant” (which contains polyester).
• Vintage: This is one of the easiest pieces to find second-hand, because thrift stores and garage sales are full of them. Before you fall for a second-hand jacket, read the inside label carefully: if the blazer is made of wool and made in France, bingo, you have a treasure in your hands.

SHOES

1. A PAIR OF FLAT CITY SHOES

Loafers, derbies, ballet flats, ankle boots… These are the pair of shoes that you put on without thinking and that you can count on all day long. They are also a good option for a dressy outfit, for those who are not comfortable in heels.

HOW TO CHOOSE A PAIR OF CITY SHOES?

For a classic and very feminine look, ballerinas are the best option. If your style is more retro or androgynous, derbies are ideal, while a more rock look calls for ankle boots . Finally, the loafer is the guarantee of absolute comfort while remaining a very elegant model.

SOME DETAILS TO CHECK WHEN TRYING ON A PAIR OF CITY SHOES:

• the front of your foot should not touch the end of the shoe. Your big toe should be able to move slightly.
• your foot should be kept in width, with slight pressure on the sides.
• your arch should be well supported.

HOW TO WEAR A PAIR OF CITY SHOES?

• A touch of color on a neutral-toned look

• With high board socks for a preppy touch

WHERE TO BUY A PAIR OF DRESS SHOES?

• Jules & Jenn: An ethical and affordable French brand, rich in timeless pieces.
• Midnight on Earth: A wide choice of feminine models available in several colors, very comfortable and sturdy.
• Repetto: Famous for its ballerinas, the high-end brand also offers the essential “Zizi” model, worn by Serge Gainsbourg.
• But also: Meermin, Orban's, Velasca Women, Paraboot, Kleman, Red Wing, Bobbies...

2. A PAIR OF HEELS

This is the shoe that belongs exclusively to the feminine wardrobe (even if some men dare to wear it today, they remain a minority). The height of elegance, it brings allure and presence.

HOW TO CHOOSE A PAIR OF HEELS?

Pay attention to the height but also to the thickness of the heel. The thinner and higher it is, the more difficult it will be to practice. It will also be easier for you to walk with a closed pair or with an ankle strap (ankle boots, salomé, babies, etc.) than with an open pair, which requires more experience (heeled mules, pumps, stilettos, etc.).

Also think about how long you will be wearing your pair. Generally speaking, a height of 5 centimeters can be tolerated all day for a good quality pair. A height of 8 centimeters is playable provided you do not walk a lot. If you love 10 centimeter pairs, choose one with a platform to reduce the height felt on the foot.

Generally speaking, it is not recommended to buy a pair of heels that you are not comfortable walking in. It is better to start with a lower pair, and work your way up over the years.

Make sure the heel is stable when you walk with it.

HOW TO WEAR A PAIR OF HEELS?

A nice pair of nude pumps lengthen the leg. They can be combined as if with a more formal look (blazer, white shirt, structured bag) broken by frayed casual jeans.

WHERE TO BUY A PAIR OF HEELS?

• Jonak: A huge selection of heels for all styles, with heights designed for beginners to seasoned heels. Timeless designs with a modern touch, and absolute comfort.
• Bobbies: For sleek and very feminine pairs, with a beautiful arch and high-quality leathers.
• Un si beau pas: A French brand that offers almost custom-made products. We choose the model, then its material, its color and finally its heel height and thickness. Our choice is then made to order and shipped in about two weeks.
• But also: Jules & Jenn, The Numbered Line, Midnight on Earth, Rivecour...

3. A PAIR OF SANDALS

An essential and versatile basic for sunny days, choose flat or with heels.

HOW TO CHOOSE A PAIR OF SANDALS?

It all depends on what you want to use them for. Those who like to gambol will prefer a buckle model, with a strap that holds the ankle well, while those who like to stroll will opt for mules. Rather a flat or heeled model? Again, it's up to you to decide according to your lifestyle and preferences.

Because they are intended to be worn in summer when feet can swell due to the heat, be careful not to buy a model that is too tight or constricting . Also avoid models made from plastic and its derivatives, which prevent the foot from breathing and guarantee bad odors and blisters.

HOW TO WEAR A PAIR OF SANDALS?

With a beautiful bohemian flowing dress, but also the very effective white t-shirt / jeans combo, denim shorts or a jumpsuit. To highlight the legs, sandals can be worn with heels, paired with a beautiful blouse tucked into high-waisted linen shorts, as below.

WHERE TO BUY A PAIR OF SANDALS?

• Saltwater: Still made in the United States, the brand offers sturdy sandals with absolute comfort, some models of which have been around since the 1940s and have not aged a day. Their treated leather withstands water, even salt water.
• Minorcan: The right option for those who don't like to expose their feet too much and are looking for an elegant, light and easy to wear model in the city.
• Swivells: City sandals with a retro design.
• But also: Midnight on Earth, Jules & Jenn, Kleman, Bleu de Chauffe, Bobbies, Jonak...

4. A PAIR OF WHITE SNEAKERS

Yes, the pair of white sneakers has become a basic, despite what some purists might say. Comfortable, understated and easy to match, it is the city shoe par excellence, and its wearing in business has become widely democratized in recent years.

HOW TO CHOOSE A PAIR OF WHITE SNEAKERS?

Comfort is everything. The right pair of white sneakers is one you can wear all day without ending up with blisters or sore soles.

Check that the interior lining is made of leather or, if it is fabric, natural fibers .

As for the outsole, it should not be too thin or too thick (the “chunky” models, very trendy at the moment, risk going out of fashion). If it is sewn rather than glued, it will last longer.

HOW TO WEAR A PAIR OF WHITE SNEAKERS?

• With a formal suit that we want to liven up a bit...
• With a classic trench coat, a striped shirt and a bag inspired by a vintage model to modernize the silhouette
• With a floral skirt and a denim jacket.

WHERE TO BUY A PAIR OF WHITE SNEAKERS?

• Veja: The French brand has established itself for several years as a reference in ethical and sustainable sneakers. It offers models with Velcro or laces, from the most classic to the most streetwear.
• SAYE: Eco-friendly sneakers (vegan, organic and made from recycled materials), with a terribly stylish 80s look.
• Sézane: The “Jack” model is feminine, versatile and easy to wear thanks to its smooth, all-purpose leather.
• Zeta Shoes: This is THE recycled sneaker. The Alpha model, available for around a hundred euros, is made from grape waste, plastic bottles fished out of the sea, recycled cork and latex.
• But also: Belledonne, Garçonne and Chérubin, Novesta, Asahi...

THE BAGS

1. A LARGE TOTE BAG / TOTE BAG

The bag in which to carry your life and all the accessories that go with it (at least). Walk in town, trip to the market, day at work, afternoon at the beach or weekend wandering: we love its large capacity and its robustness.

HOW TO CHOOSE A LARGE TOTE BAG?

It is better to choose a plain model, and in neutral shades that are easy to match with your different outfits: black, taupe, beige, camel, brown, rust, khaki, navy blue, etc.

If you regularly take public transport, a model that closes with a zip will give you more peace of mind.

HOW TO CARRY A LARGE TOTE BAG?

With a casual outfit, the tote bag can be made of cotton, linen or suede. If you want a more chic or rock look, opt for a leather and very rigid model.

WHERE TO BUY A LARGE TOTE BAG?

• Midnight on Earth: For a sturdy, elegant vegan tote bag, decorated with pretty gold chain handles. Its details are worked and its interior is equipped with pockets, one of which is zipped.
• Camille Vegan Bags: The brand offers a beautiful black vegan bag (made of apple leather, Piñatex and recycled plastic bottle), made in France. Deep and with 55cm wide handles, it is equipped with a zip.
• Longchamp: Since 1993, the brand has offered its iconic Pliage model, available in several sizes and colors. A classic that transcends ages and styles. A common piece sold in tens of millions of copies, certainly, but which has proven itself in terms of durability and timelessness.
• Reversible: Bags upcycled from rolls of unused fabric… paraglider canvas. And yeah. The little extra? The models are reversible, and therefore transformable according to our desires and outfits.
• The perfect beach bags: Large French linen beach bags, light and durable.

2. A SMALL SHOULDER BAG

Ultra-practical, it is the ideal bag for city dwellers who need to easily transport their belongings while keeping their hands free.

HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR SHOULDER BAG?

Contrary to popular belief, a bag is something you try on, especially a shoulder bag. The goal? Make sure it's not too heavy , too long or too short (or adjustable, if that's the case).

In store, try it on “in conditions”, checking that all your essentials fit in easily and without forcing (phone, wallet, keys, lipstick, bottle of hydroalcoholic gel). Nothing is more frustrating than a day bag for which you have to sacrifice some of your belongings - or which is so small that you have to go out with an extra tote bag.

Be careful not to “stuff” a bag: this could damage it.

HOW TO WEAR YOUR SHOULDER BAG?

For models with a metal chain, we recommend that you match it to your jewelry and belt buckle, silver or gold. Of course, in 2022, the mix has become common - but the reminder is more harmonious and more elegant than the mix of metals.

You can also choose it in a strong color that contrasts with an outfit in more neutral tones. Here, a brick red that contrasts with the gray of the hoodie and the brown of the wool coat.

WHERE TO BUY A SMALL SHOULDER BAG?

• Polène: Very beautiful models in solid and durable leather, with timeless but unique designs. Be careful, some models are a little heavy, do not hesitate to try them on beforehand or refer to the weight indicated on the sheets of the different products.
• Tammy and Benjamin: For bags inspired by vintage models, but designed for everyday life: the chain straps are equipped with a leather shoulder protector, for more comfort. A vegan range is also available.
• Ashoka Paris: Urban and extremely chic handbags. All models are vegan and made from Apple Skin.
• Hindbag: Made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, these round, colorful bags will appeal to fans of casual style, and can also be carried by hand. Big plus: their low price (around forty euros) and the varied choice of colors.

THE FINAL WORD

And ta-daaam: you now have in hand the detailed list of the basics of the feminine wardrobe . Some may already be part of your wardrobe, others may join them soon.

Before you start shopping to buy the missing items in your wardrobe, we remind you that this list is not to be followed to the letter. Above all, it is a recommendation for those who would like to (re)start on a good basis to find or refocus their style.

This list is a reliable and solid base, from which you can then add your grain of salt, but which you can above all adapt according to your tastes, your lifestyle, your personality and desires.

We hope it helps you.