Every season, without fail, I look to French women for a masterclass in getting dressed. Why? Because their style doesn’t blindly follow trends, it filters them. The French have a knack for cherry-picking what’s new and making even fresh off-the-runway looks feel timeless. And for summer 2025, this approach feels more relevant and appealing than ever.
As someone who’s also selective with trends, I’ve recently found myself saving countless outfit posts from the Parisians I follow on Instagram, particularly those who incorporate current trends in an effortless, considered way. Premium fabrications, fluid silhouettes and muted hues have repeatedly cropped up, often accompanied by distinctly 2025 details. Whether it’s a leg length or a print choice, the influence of the current season has clearly crept into the French fashion consciousness.
There's the subtle presence of butter yellow, the defiant return of capri pants and a scattering of polka dots in a nod to Parisian roots. Across the board, each trend feels cool, clean and classic, thanks to that characteristic French knack for styling we all envy.
Below, I’ve broken down the seven summer trends our Gallic neighbours are leaning into right now. Whether you’re reworking your wardrobe or just looking for one trend to update your look, bookmark this as your guide to what’s actually worth wearing this season.
7 Chic French Fashion Trends to Try for Summer 2025:
1. Mesh Flats
Style Notes: They might be divisive, but mesh ballet flats have shown serious staying power. For summer, it's the perfect option to let your toes breathe while feeling a little dressier than sandals.
Shop the Trend:
Julie's exact pair—I'm already mentally styling them with so many outfits.
A more budget-friendly option that's still incredibly chic.
Personally, I can't believe these are 1. from the high street, and 2. still in stock.
2. Halternecks
Style Notes: While halter tops and dresses will forever be associated with ’90s and early 2000s style, they've officially been welcomed into 2025 wardrobes by the French fashion set.
Shop the Trend:
Stand out at summer gatherings in this sleek co-ord.
Parisians love an LBD.
An ultra-modern take on the halter silhouette.
3. Linen Sets
Style Notes: Linen is a must come summer, and French women are doubling down with co-ords in this breezy, natural fabric. Choose from smart tailored sets and flowy shirt-and-shorts pairings in neutral shades.
Shop the Trend:
A cooling remedy for sticky summer days.
Mix and match the pieces to create countless looks.
I love this slate grey colour.
4. Long Shorts
Style Notes: Long denim shorts and knee-length bermuda styles are the leading shorts trend this summer. Keep the rest of the look simple: a plain tank and some understated accessories will give this boyish silhouette an elegant French spin.
Shop the Trend:
These look just like Léna's.
I'm into the styling here; it's a fun update on the classic jeans and white shirt formula.
Reach for this billowy pair during the next heatwave.
5. Butter Yellow
Style Notes: Most people I know are either sick of hearing about butter yellow, or have fully embraced this creamy hue. Apologies if you're in the former camp, but many of the French women on my feed are firmly in the latter. If they approve, it must be good.
Shop the Trend:
Have I found the ultimate wedding guest dress?
I'm picturing this with ecru denim and tan accessories.
Such a cheerful set.
6. Polka Dots
Style Notes: Polka dots are to Parisians are what umbrellas are to Brits: essential. So, it comes as no surprised that we've spotted (pun intended) this print all over the French capital. It's a timeless motif that's enjoying extra attention this season.
Shop the Trend:
This one is selling fast.
Look to this French brand for classic polka-dot pieces.
Take this from the office to the weekend.
7. Capris
Style Notes: Another trend that stirs up a mix of reactions, capri pants—or pedal pushers—are adding a touch of nostalgia to this summer's style lineup. Parisians have successfully made this youthful trend feel grown up, slotting it into all-black looks and teaming it with crisp white shirting.
Shop the Trend:
If COS is on board, then so am I.
Ready for your next park picnic.
I'm into the styling here.
-
5 Shoe Color Trends All the Cool French Girls Are Wearing This SummerNo black shoes in sight.
-
Set Aside the Strapless Minidress—This Is the Trend to Choose If You Want to Look ElegantFrench Riviera approved.
-
Parisian Style Means Chic—French Women Would Be So Into These 42 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale ItemsEffortless and elegant picks.
-
Low-Rise, Lacy, and a Little Bit Delulu: Welcome to the Gen Z Pop Girlie SummerPut your headphones (and miniskirts) on.
-
The Summer 2025 It-Girl Wardrobe: 7 Highly Specific Items They're All WearingAka the season's most wanted.
-
Sorry, Flats—These Anti-Trend Heels Are Every French Woman's Quiet Go-To for a Night Out in ParisA classic choice.
-
If a French Woman Shopped the Amazon Prime Day Sale, She'd Instantly Add These 31 Chic Picks to CartEffortless and affordable? Yes, please.
-
I Went to Shop the Zara Sale But Got Distracted by These 27 New-In Buys and Never Looked BackThey are too good.
