American women have been trying to pin down the secrets of copying French style for decades—is it all about Breton stripe tops? Do they get everything tailored before wearing? Are fresh baguettes and rich cheese somehow involved? (Please let the answer be yes.) The truth is, of course, much more complex, but there are a handful of little tricks I’ve learned to make it easier to recreate my favorite Parisian outfits. The latest of these ingenious hacks comes from professional Stitch Fix stylist Elizabeth Robitaille, who taught me the secret of the Four Bs: blazer, button down, basic denim and ballet flats.
The Four Bs Are All You Need to Create the Perfect French Outfit
According to an expert stylist
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Published Sep 13, 2024
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“On the heels of the Summer Games in Paris, and with the new season of Emily in Paris [hitting Netflix], Stitch Fix is predicting we’ll see strong Parisian influence in our wardrobes this fall,” says Robitaille. “To replicate the effortlessly chic French girl style, we created a new styling formula called the ‘Four Bs’ method—pairing a blazer, button down, basic denim and ballet flats. This is a fool-proof way to ensure your capsule wardrobe includes timeless staples the French are so famous for.” I told you it was genius.
All four these items are staples of a well-built capsule wardrobe, but when worn together evoke the easy elegance of French fashion. And while there are a few rules of thumb to follow for each item, there is also a ton of wiggle room for you to make personalized picks that feel true to your sense of style. Here, some of my top tips for building out your ultimate Four B French capsule collection.
Everlane
1. Blazer
Everlane
Generally speaking, slightly oversize blazers in a neutral color or pattern are both the most timeless options and the most flattering. But it’s up to you whether you prefer a subtle plaid or gray wool, single breasted or double or a length that covers your hips or hits right above them. If you do want to try something with a bit more color, I suggest picking something neutral adjacent like a forest green, navy blue or even pale pink rather than cherry red.
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J.Crew
2. Button Down
J.Crew
Yes, even women with big boobs can (and should) wear a classic button-up shirt. As is the case for petite and tall frames, it’s just about finding styles that are designed for your figure. White cotton is definitely the most versatile, there are different weights to consider—a thicker cotton or lightweight linen are great for casual occasions, while thinner cotton poplin gives off a more professional vibe. You can also have some fun with striped versions, embroidered pockets or even embellished collars.
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Abercrombie & Fitch
3. Basic Denim
Abercrombie & Fitch
What exactly does Robitaille mean by “basic” denim? Essentially any silhouette that feels more timeless and less trendy. Same goes for the wash. Straight-leg jeans in a mid to high rise and a medium blue wash are a perfect example, but you could also opt for a slimmer fit in a black wash or a bootcut in a sun-washed blue as well.
Madewell
4. Ballet Flats
Madewell
Yes, ballet flats are super trendy right now, but even when this trend diminishes in favor of something else, they’ll never become a total faux pas. Much like with blazers or jeans, the key to picking a timeless pair of flats lies in the details. An almond toe that’s neither too pointed nor too round will pair with more pant and skirt styles, and while I love a strappy Mary Jane for more support across the top of my foot, a plain ballet flat will ultimate feel more classic. As for color, feel free to run the rainbow gamut, but remember that black is less likely to show grime and wear than lighter hues.
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