One thing we’ve noticed about French women is their shared ability to breathe new life into older trends—looks some might even deem “dated.” But with their natural flair and laid-back approach to styling, they have influenced us to wear a trend we previously wrote off. Enter corduroy. While this retro fabric has long been considered a basic, we haven’t seen it as much in the last few years. But make no mistake—if you follow the Gallic-girl dress code, it’s one of the season’s biggest trends.
Although the material has roots in the ’70s, French women are giving their corduroy staples a modern feel, wearing them in fresh new ways. Take Julie Sergent Ferreri, whose bright-pink corduroy suit was one of the sleekest looks we clocked during Paris Fashion Week. And Franny Fyne? She makes her classic tan corduroy blazer feel bang-up-to-date with the addition of crisp ecru denim and on-trend cowboy boots. Throw in a look from Camille Charrière that involves a corduroy miniskirt and a leather jacket, and it’s clear that corduroy is an integral part of the current French wardrobe.
Scroll on to see six French-girl corduroy outfits that have convinced us to dig out our long-forgotten corduroy pieces once more. Don’t worry, however, if you haven’t already invested in the trend—we’ve outlined essential buys in the fabric for you below, too.
Style Notes: Although brown corduroy might teeter on feeling dated, Tamara Mory makes her trousers feel more modern by wearing them with a tonal camel jumper and then offsetting with sleek black sock boots.
Style Notes: You might not think there’s a place for corduroy skirts in the fashion-girl uniform, but as Camille Charrière proves, they look incredible paired with trending pieces such as platform boots and leather blazers.
Style Notes: Trousers not your thing? A corduroy blazer will blend just as seamlessly into your existing wardrobe. Make like Franny and pair yours with white jeans and cowboy boots for a 2022 feel.
Style Notes: Although classic shades of brown, tan, and navy corduroy will always serve you well, don’t be afraid to channel the fabric in brighter coluorways, just like Anne-Victoire Lefevre has here with her delicate yellow trousers.
Style Notes: Speaking of colour—wow! Julie Sergent Ferreri’s Longchamp corduroy suit is the stuff of fashion dreams. Although hers has sold out, we’ve spied a very similar (and more affordable) option on the high street. You’re welcome.
Style Notes: The beauty of corduroy trousers lies in their versatility, especially if you choose a shade of navy or black. Simply wear them with everything you’d ordinarily style with jeans—in Léna Farl’s case, a white blouse and cute cardigan—and you’ll wonder how you ever got dressed without them.
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