As we previously mentioned, Notorious is on tour in France, basking in a sabbatical amidst the fashion capital’s electrifying street style. It’s undeniable that Parisian women exude an enviable chicness; their ensembles are polished yet effortlessly stylish. But how do they master these timeless, classic looks with a contemporary twist? The secret lies in their high/low styling expertise, seamlessly blending luxury with accessibility. While Dior, Chanel, Saint Laurent, Jacquemus, Louis Vuitton, Celine, and Chloé feature prominently in their wardrobes, the truly fashion-savvy Parisians also champion lesser-known French brands, elevating them with designer accessories and statement pieces. To channel the iconic French-girl style, explore these 24 under-the-radar French fashion brands. And don’t miss out on these French vintage shops to complete the look.
1 – BOBBIES
Founded in 2010, Bobbies is a leather goods brand with a design studio in Paris and manufacturing in Portugal. Last autumn/winter, the derby Noreen model was a staple for every fashionable French woman on the streets.
2 – A.P.C.
The Atelier de Production et Création, or A.P.C., is renowned for its minimalist fashion and classic leather bags. Established in 1987, the brand offers timeless fashion with quality and design that promise longevity. A.P.C. remains a favourite among French women.
3 – SÉZANE
Sézane, the first French fashion brand to launch online, has cultivated a loyal community and epitomizes French women’s style. The collections draw inspiration primarily from urban settings, like a love letter to Paris.
4 – BA&SH
BA&SH is the go-to for fabulous boho fashion with a Parisian chic flair. For more on this label, check out “The new French brand taking over Europe.“
5 – CAREL
Family-owned since 1952, Carel is celebrated among French fashionistas for its comfortable flats, ballerinas, and iconic Kina Mary Janes, which exude vintage charm.
6 – CLERGERIE
Loved by Instagram influencers, stylists, and French It-Girls like Anne-Laure Mais, Clergerie shoes, especially the crochet platform sandals, are reminiscent of Gabriela Hearst for Chloé.
7 – ERES
With its understated French elegance, this swimwear brand evokes dreams of the Cote d’Azur. Eres, while not exactly under the radar, deserves a spot on this list.
8 – ELLEME
Elleme, meaning “she loves” (Elle aime), offers meticulously designed handbags, shoes, and ready-to-wear pieces characterized by simplicity, timelessness, and uniqueness—the hallmarks of French style.
9 – IRO
Inspired by the rock styles of the 70s and 80s, IRO blends rock with romantic Parisian feminism and Japanese edginess, creating a perfect balance of coolness, sophistication, and modernity.
10 – MARIE MAROT
Marie Marot, a model-turned-designer, crafts effortlessly chic button-down shirts adored by the Parisian fashion set.
11 – ROUJE
Founded by Jeanne Damas, Rouje is known for high-waisted jeans and romantic dresses that French girls love.
12 – MUSIER PARIS
Created by influencer Anne-Laure Mais, Musier Paris is the go-to brand for stylish French women seeking sexy dresses, cardigans, and tops.
13 – LEMAIRE
After stints with Christian Lacroix, Yves Saint Laurent, and Thierry Mugler, Christian Lemaire founded his eponymous brand with Sarah Linh Tran, offering sleek, low-key luxury pieces.
14 – LOULOU STUDIO
Designer Chloé Harrouche draws inspiration from art, architecture, and Paris itself. Loulou Studio offers timeless wardrobe essentials, blending comfort and structure, ideal for a classic capsule wardrobe.
15 – MAISON CLÉO
For sustainable, handcrafted garments with beautiful embroideries, MaisonCléo is a must-know brand, epitomizing slow fashion with a French twist. Discover more in “Get to know 4 online made-to-order fashion brands.“
16 – FIGARET
Since 1968, Figaret Paris has been the go-to for impeccably tailored shirts for both women and men, a staple of the classic French shirt and jeans look.
17 – PABLO
Pablo, the younger sister of the Darel group, offers everyday basics with a French twist, including a great selection of pants, shorts, and crochet creations.
18 – SÈSSUN
Founded in 1996 by Emma François, Sèssun is a tribute to craftsmanship and beautiful materials, with a nostalgic design. Originally from Marseilles, it opened its first Paris boutique in 2004.
19 – POLÈNE
Founded in 2016 by three siblings, Polène has become a hit for its creative and original designs at affordable prices. Their boutique often sees queues of eager shoppers.
20 – EMI MESS
Established in 2020 by Émille Messal, EMI MESS offers luxury, sustainable designs with handmade, made-to-order pieces to avoid overproduction. The brand is a favourite of mega-famous Instagrammer Leandra Medine Cohen.
21 – LEON & HARPER
Created in 2010 by Philippe Corbin, Leon & Harper offers timeless fashion with quirky details, from dresses to shoes, perfect for the stylish French woman.
22 – ATELIER ATTAL PARIS
Image @atelierattal
This quaint sandal boutique in the 4th arrondissement needs just 20m2 to take your measurements and craft the perfect strappy leather sandals. They are rebuilding their Instagram account after recently getting hacked!
23- SOEUR
Founded by sisters Domitille and Angélique Brion, Soeur draws inspiration from menswear to create comfortable, chic clothing that’s the latest craze among Parisians.
24- JULIE DE LIBRAN
If you’re seeking luxury fashion at the haute couture level, then the name you need to jot down in your black book is Julie de Libran. The French designer has an impressive portfolio, having worked with Gianfranco Ferré, Versace, and Miuccia Prada. In 2008, she returned to Paris and contributed her talents to Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs, and Sonia Rykiel. Finally, in 2019, Julie de Libran opened her own atelier, which I often pass by on my way to mass at the Church of Saint Thomas Aquinas. The place is divine; each dress is crafted in very limited quantities, with the option of by-appointment fittings for further modifications. The accessories are fantastic.
For the ultimate Parisian experience, follow in the footsteps of Coco Chanel with Notorious.
Title photo @wikicommons