As a fashion editor I’ve written countless features about French girl style and their ability to style balance trend and timeless with every look, without having to make much effort. Whilst they may have a consistent capsule wardrobe filled with good jeans, well-made leather accessories and the occasional pop of red, there are also a few microtrends I’ve spotted them embracing that are slightly less expected.
Whilst French style has never been about chasing every fleeting fashion moment, it is about skilfully identifying the trends— even the micro ones—that will weave seamlessly into a classic wardrobe whilst also elevating it.
In practice, that skill often comes down to choosing micro-trends that fall into one of two categories: heritage or craftsmanship. For heritage it’s pieces that have a vintage vibe, like embroidered poplin dresses or sleek drawstring bags, and craftsmanship is all about textures and details that exude quality, like crochet.
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So if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the constant coming and going of micro-trends but want a wardrobe that feels fresh and relevant, I’ve found five that French girls are loving this summer. Read on to find out more.
5 French Microtrends for Summer 2026
1. Crochet Tops
Style Notes: In previous summers crochet has been a statement associated with festivals and beach dressing, but this season it has had a quiet revival. In neutral tones and smarter silhouettes, it’s a grown-up texture that in top form pairs beautifully with denim and tailoring.
Shop Crochet Tops:
Reformation
Thea Sheer Cotton Crochet Halter
‘Jeans and a nice top’ just got a summer upgrade.
H&M
Pointelle-Knit Top With Scarf
ZARA
Crochet Combination Top
A statement bohemian piece.
MARIA MCMANUS
Cashmere and Cotton-Blend Crocheted Polo Shirt
Mint Velvet
Cotton Blend Embellished Crochet Waistcoat
A textural take on the waistcoat.
2. Striped Trousers
Style Notes: The French know their way around stripes, and while it may be too hot for Bretons, they’re making up for it in other ways. Replacing jeans and a refreshing alternative to plain linen, striped trousers in bold colourways have become the go-to way to add a pop of colour to neutral basics like shirts, blouses and tank tops.
Shop Striped Trousers:
COS
Piped Striped Drawstring Trousers
A fresh and elevated colour combination.
M&S
Pure Cotton Striped Wide Leg Trousers
SIR
Alva Striped Cotton Wide-Leg Pants
Massimo Dutti
Satin Pants With Tie-Up Hem Detail
Striking the perfect balance between smart and casual.
Boden
Mayfair Linen Trousers
Linen doesn’t have to be boring.
3. Pouch Bags
Style Notes: From the runways of Prada and Valentino to the streets of Paris, drawstring pouches are the elegant bag trend replacing clutches for evening and occasion dressing. They’re sleek, practically roomy and perfect for packing into even the smallest of suitcases, making them a chic holiday essential.
Shop Pouch Bags:
Prada
Re-Nylon Drawstring Pouch
Reiss
Crystal Bracelet Pouch Bag
THE FRANKIE SHOP
Morgan Cotton Pouch
Lulu Guinness
Satin Hand Bag
4. Gladiator Sandals
Style Notes: It may seem like flip-flops have dominated the sandal conversation, but the release of The Odyssey and Zendaya’s incredible press tour wardrobe have caused a gladiator sandal renaissance. A staple of bohemian dressing, they appeal to both minimalists and maximalists. Sleek, pared-back styles beautifully compliment mini dresses and tailored shorts, while embellished, multi-strap iterations are great way to make a statement.
Shop Gladiator Sandals:
KJacques
Zenobie Cross-Over Metallic Leather Sandals
Don’t sleep on summer metallics.
Teva
Midform Infinity Sandals
When boho meets gorpcore.
ASOS DESIGN
Fernanda Rope Beaded Hardware Flat Sandals
Choose rope for some added texture.
River Island
Beige Gem Embellished Gladiator Sandals
Bead embellishment is everywhere this season.
5. Embroidered Mini Dress
Style Notes: Mini dresses are a summer inevitability, but this year they’ve taken on a quintessentially French aesthetic. There’s frills, romantic silhouettes and embroidered details that make them the perfect throw-on-and-go dress. Just add a raffia bag, head scarf and fisherman sandals.
Shop Embroidered Mini Dresses:
The smock is the dress of the season.
The shirt dress never goes out of style.
Reiss
Cotton-Blend Lace-Trim Flippy Dress
Crochet + guipure lace = bohemian heaven.
Anthropologie
Puff-Sleeve Mini Dress
Move into late summer with a pair of knee-high boots.
Damson Madder
Raven Mini Night Dress
A vintage silhouette in a statement shade.
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