Golden style rules we can learn from French women

We asked French fashion experts how to emulate French style, and here's what they said....

"Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off" is one of the most famous quotes about French women and their style from Coco Chanel. French women typically adopt a less is more philosophy and are often masters of understated style.

French women embrace minimalism and avoid over-accessorizing. If you wear bold jewelry, keep the rest of your outfit pared back. There's huge admiration for French style across the world. One personal stylist USP is entirely based around French dressing - the classic Parisian capsule wardrobe. It's a super elegant, chic and stylish way of dressing without thinking too much about what you're going to wear -- primarily based around a capsule wardrobe of 20 or so pieces which can be all worn together. For example, the classic white shirt, the grey blazer, cigarette pants, or well-fitting jeans.

Invest In Timeless Classics

French dressing isn't about being a slave to the trends, French fashion model and clothing brand owner Yaourou explains. She told us, "Invest in timeless classics rather than following trends -- simplicity and comfort rather than fashionable clothes."

Go For Quality Over Quantity

One of the main elements of French style is to choose high-quality garments (which could mean second-hand or vintage stores - it doesn't have to mean expensive). French style to us equates to timeless and simple elegant classics, neutral colors and quality over quantity.

Team Bold With Basic Pieces

If you wear a bold piece of clothing, combine it with a basic piece. For example, if you wear a multicolored maxi dress, super sexy dress or transparent dress, combine it with a classic leather blazer or a tailored Blazer.

Avoid Loud Or Flashy Pieces

French women are known for their understated chic. Avoid overly flashy or loud pieces. Instead, build a simple yet well-curated wardrobe of timeless and versatile items. Key pieces include tailored trousers, a little black dress, a crisp white shirt, a trench coat, and ballet flats or ankle boots. These staples never go out of style and can be mixed and matched effortlessly.

Be Careful With Too Much Print

French women tend to look very well put together but not overly dressed. The stylish one wears plain neutrals and sometimes tonal colors, not a lot of print.

Less Is More

Because they embody elegance and "casual-chic' effortlessly, for French women, less is more. Go easy on mixing too many bold colors and prints, sticking to more classic and neutral looks.