I love Sezane just as much as anyone else and while I was just next door to them yesterday having a coffee and gluten-free cookie at Copain, I got to thinking; living in Paris has its perks, and one of the best is having firsthand access to some incredible French fashion brands. If you love Sézane, you’ll definitely want to know about these other local favorites. They’re the ones we Parisians adore, each with its unique flair and story. Let’s dive into some of the brands that capture the essence of French style, just like Sézane.
Make My Lemonade
Imagine this: a brand that’s as vibrant and colorful as a summer picnic by Canal Saint-Martin. That’s Make My Lemonade for you. Founded by the fabulous Lisa Gachet, this brand is all about bringing joy to your wardrobe with playful patterns and bold colors. Whether you’re looking for something fun for a casual day out or a statement piece for a special occasion, Make My Lemonade has you covered. It’s impossible not to smile when you see their creations. And the fact that it’s so close to Canal Saint-Martin? Perfect for a little shopping spree followed by a riverside coffee.
Musier Paris
If you’re in the mood for something a little sultrier, Musier is where it’s at. Created by Instagram sensation Anne-Laure Mais, Musier specializes in dresses that are sexy yet oh-so-elegant. Think slinky fabrics, deep necklines, and the perfect cut to make you feel like a goddess. Anne-Laure brings her effortless French chic to every piece, and it shows. It’s no wonder these dresses are all over the streets of Paris, especially when you’re heading out for a night of cocktails and dancing.
Rouje
Rouje is a brand that feels like slipping into a daydream of Parisian romance. Founded by the queen of French cool, Jeanne Damas, Rouje gives us those vintage-inspired dresses that seem to step right out of an old French film. And let’s not forget their mules—those shoes are the definition of “je ne sais quoi.” But Rouje isn’t just about clothing; their makeup range is to die for. Imagine lipsticks that give you that perfect pouty, “just kissed” look and eyeshadows that make your eyes pop. It’s like they bottled up Parisian charm.
Soeur
Soeur is where you go when you want timeless, understated pieces that feel like a warm hug. Founded by two sisters, Domitille and Angélique Brion, this brand is all about those classic staples—think cottons and wool garments that will last you a lifetime. Their style is a little more uniform, but in that effortlessly cool, “I just threw this on” kind of way. My favorite spot? The cozy boutique in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. It’s got that old-world charm that makes you want to stay and shop forever.
Balzac Paris
French women can’t get enough of Balzac Paris, and once you see their collection, you’ll understand why. This brand is all about adding a pop of color and personality to your wardrobe. From their bold leopard print pants to their stylish tote bags, Balzac Paris knows how to make a statement. They have a way of blending classic French style with a modern twist, which is why you’ll see Parisians rocking their pieces all over town. It’s playful, it’s chic, and it’s 100% French.
Sessùn
Sessùn is like that sophisticated friend who always looks effortlessly put together. Founded by Emma François, this brand hails from Marseille and brings a bit of that sun-kissed Mediterranean vibe to Paris. They’re known for their high-quality fabrics and impeccable craftsmanship, which does reflect in their price point. Sessùn offers everything from tailored coats to delicate blouses, all with a slightly bohemian edge. If you’re looking to invest in a piece that you’ll treasure forever, Sessùn is the way to go.
Claudie Pierlot
Ah, Claudie Pierlot, the grand dame of French fashion. This brand has been around since 1984, and it’s still as beloved as ever. What sets Claudie Pierlot apart is its ability to blend classic Parisian style with a playful, youthful twist. Their pieces are feminine, chic, and always on-trend. Whether it’s a tailored blazer, a flirty dress, or a perfectly cut pair of trousers, you can count on Claudie Pierlot to deliver. It’s a brand that’s stood the test of time, and it’s not going anywhere.
APC
APC, or Atelier de Production et de Création, is the brand that comes to mind when you think of minimalist, Parisian cool. Founded by Jean Touitou, APC is all about clean lines, high-quality materials, and timeless designs. Their denim is particularly iconic—seriously, if you don’t own a pair of APC jeans, you’re missing out. And those handbags? You can’t walk down a street in Paris without spotting at least a few APC bags. They’re the definition of understated luxury and have become a staple in the wardrobe of any Parisian fashionista.
Ba&sh
If you love dresses, Ba&sh is your dream come true. Founded by best friends Barbara Boccara and Sharon Krief, this brand is all about creating pieces that make you feel like your best self. Their dresses are known for their flowy silhouettes, vibrant prints, and that perfect blend of bohemian and chic. Whether it’s for a day at the office or a night out on the town, Ba&sh has a dress for every occasion. They’re the kind of pieces you’ll reach for again and again because they make you feel amazing.
Maje
Maje is another brand that perfectly captures that elusive French je ne sais quoi. Founded by Judith Milgrom, Maje offers a mix of contemporary and classic pieces, with a bit of edge. Their collections are always on-trend, but they also have that timeless appeal that makes you want to invest in them. From tailored jackets to flowing dresses, Maje has something for everyone. It’s the kind of brand that makes you feel like you could take on the world, one stylish outfit at a time.
Saint James
Last but definitely not least, we have Saint James, the brand that gave the world the iconic Breton sweater. Founded way back in 1889, Saint James has become synonymous with that classic nautical style that we all know and love. Their sweaters are made from the finest wool, and they’re built to last a lifetime. Whether you’re strolling along the Seine or heading out for a weekend in Normandy, a Saint James sweater is the perfect companion. It’s cozy, stylish, and oh-so-French.
So there you have it—a roundup of the French fashion brands we locals love. Whether you’re looking for something timeless, playful, or just plain chic, these brands have something that will make your heart skip a beat. Happy shopping, my loves!
PSssssss…… PARIS TOURS
If you are planning on coming to Paris – my tours are a fun way to discover local Paris!
We spend 1 on 1 time together and they are semi-customizable – on your interests.
See more information on my neighborhood or custom tours here as well as my calendar