Not to generalise but French women, with their capsule wardrobes and lens-ready styling, seem far chicer right now than any trend-slaved alternative. The quiet sex appeal of Carine Rotifeld and Jeanne Damas, along with the subtle luxury that defines their look is something to which we always aspire. Of course, there are the established houses basically synonymous with fashion – Chanel, Christian Dior, Givenchy – but recently we’ve stumbled across some smaller, more unique labels that also stand out for all the right reasons. Why? They make Parisian chic attainable. Meet the 13 labels you need to know...
SHOP: 13 French Brands That Need To Be On Your Radar
SHOP: 13 French Brands That Need To Be On Your Radar
1 of 13La Semaine Paris, Brigitte Jacket, £332
Le Semaine is a digital native brand for the conscious feminist, a concept that's reflected in their clothing. Just take this belted blazer for example, it's modern, chic and says girl power.
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2 of 13Roseanna, Pull Uni Sam Light Mohair, £320
Roseanna has the effortless feel of Parisian women and a fearlessness that makes one want to confidently clash colours and patterns.
3 of 13La Fetiche, Oversized Poplin Shirt, £260
Founded by Scottish-born April Crichton and Parisian Orély Forestier, La Fetiche makes use of the tireless craftsmanship of both designers' homelands. In translation, this means that for winter, there are hand-knitted sweaters, Breton stripe pullovers and kilts.
4 of 13Carel Paris, Burgundy Leather Boots, £492
In short, Alexa Chung is a fan of Carel, which is as good an indicator as any of just how chic this Parisian shoe-brand is. Founded in 1952, the label came into its own a decade later when it collaborated with Dior and has remained relevant ever since.
5 of 13We Are Leone, Ruby silk crepe de chine robe, £178
Fans of Rixo will surely like We Are Leone, which also specialises in head-turning dresses. Founders and sisters Tallulah and Ruby Rufus Issacs have lived in Paris, Los Angeles and Rome, which if you pay careful attention can be felt in their worldly designers.
6 of 13Valentine Gauthier, Clark Abby Metallic, £122
Valentine Gauthier cut her teeth at Martin Margiela's studio before launching her own label in 2007. Head to Gauthier for subtly feminine pieces, printed blouses and brilliant blazers.
7 of 13Jimmy Fairly, Stranger Sunglasses, £83
For readers familiar with American label Warby Parker, Jimmy Fairly is Europe's equivalent. Head here for trend-setting lenses at prices that won't make you weep.
8 of 13Soeur, Fluo Cardigan, £122
It really doesn't get more typically Parisian than Souers. As the name suggests, the label is designed by two sisters, Domitille and Angélique Brion, and together they make exquisite shirts, classic outerwear and stiff denim.
9 of 13Jonak Paris, Glossy Caramel Boots, £165
Since 1964, Jonak has been fashioning affordable, aspirational footwear. This season we're eyeing up the lace-up booties and loafers.
10 of 13Holiday Boileau, Large Cover Trousers, £420
Married to French Vogue's Emmanuelle Alt, Franck Durand was well-positioned to relaunch Holiday Boileau in 2014. Originally, a travel magazine operating in the 40s through to the 70s in New York, Dunard saw the promise in relaunching the publication with an accompanying line of easy-to-wear sweatshirts, brightly coloured tees and weekend wardrobe essentials.
11 of 13Zina de Plagny, Large Scarf, £80
There was a real Zina de Plagny and she worked in France's ateliers during the golden age of couture (1930s-40s). It's her daughter, Marie-Thérèse, and granddaughter, Irène, who have revived her legacy with this label, which they launched nearly a decade ago.
12 of 13Mirae, Milena Belt, £80
With seven sustainably-minded collections dropping a year (that's around once every two months), Mirae is well aware of the taste and habits of the modern shopper. Expect trend-led dresses, timeless blouses and retro footwear.
13 of 13Musier, Gemini Jacket, £193
Less than a year ago Anne-Laure Mais launched Musier. With collections dropping every two months with all designs assembled and manufactured in Paris ateliers, this is smart fast fashion with an eye for Instagrammable clothes.