As someone who has studied and written about French-girl style for a decade, I know that a classic, timeless, and understated color remains a constant in a French woman's year-round wardrobe: navy blue. Whether it's in the form of a relaxed sweater, a chic blazer, a timeless pea coat, or tailored trousers, the rich-looking hue is an essential part of the chic Parisian look.
While it's always been a classic for the French, the expensive-looking color also happens to be having a major moment this fall/winter. The deep hue was spotted on head-to-toe looks all over the fall 2024 runways—from Altuzarra to Khaite—and recently spotted on several celebrities including, Katie Holmes, Kendall Jenner, Selena Gomez, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Saoirse Ronan—bringing a fresh energy to the understated color.
Take a look below to see how celebs and French women are wearing the luxurious color trend, and shop our favorite elegant navy pieces out there.
On Katie Holmes: Bevza Large Tote ($831)
On Kendall Jenner: The Row flats; John Galliano dress
On Dua Lipa: Tiffany & Co. Hardware Graduated Link Necklace ($3200); Tiffany & Co. Inside Out Hoop Earrings ($9700)
Navy Blue on the French Fashion Set
Shop Our Favorite Navy Blue Pieces
j.crew
Cashmere Relaxed V-Neck Sweater
A navy V-neck sweater oozes Parisian chic vibes.
MANGO
Double-Breasted Coat
A pea coat is classic and timeless.
j.crew
Stratus Pant in Textured Satin
Navy satin pants will elevate your outfits in an instant.
Just add high-waisted jeans for a French-girl look.
madewell
The Sculptural-Buckle Shoulder Bag in Suede
There's something so luxurious about a navy suede handbag.
j.crew
Odette Cable-Knit Sweater Lady Jacket in Cotton-Blend Bouclé
madewell
Merino Wool Pullover Sweater
A classic crewneck belongs in everyone's wardrobe.
J.Crew
Natalia Pant in Stretch Corduroy
Navy corduroy pants? Heck yeah.
A navy blazer will add instant polish.
ZARA
Satin Effect Midi Skirt
Swap your black slip skirt for a navy one this season.
Shopbop
Pixie Market Contrast Corduroy Country Barn Jacket
Obsessed with this barn jacket.
So chic! These are at the top of my Madewell cart.
ZARA
Wool Blend Scarf Sweater
A navy scarf-sweater will have you looking altogether on-trend this season.
MANGO
Double-Breasted Wool Coat
There's something so chic about a long navy wool coat.
Line + Dot
Paulina Maxi Sweater Dress
The perfect knit dress you can dress up or down.
MANGO
100% Cashmere Perkins-Neck Sweater
Style with minimalist heels for a chic evening look.
Free People
Annalise Suede Jacket
A sumptuous suede jacket will make your outfit look so expensive.
DONNI.
The Box Weave Stretch Cardi
The cardigan you'll reach for on repeat.
MANGO
Perkins-Neck Sweater With Zipper
PELLE MODA
Deena Low Heel in Midnight
They look even better in person.
ALIGNE
Betty Reversible Quilted Jacket