40 French fashion brands affordable loved by locals and tax-free for non-EU tourists
If you've ever admired the effortless elegance of French women and wondered how to recreate that coveted French girl style, you're not alone.
From timeless Breton stripes to smart tailoring and minimalist chic, the French approach to fashion is iconic. The best part ? You don't need a luxury budget to dress the Parisian way.
In this guide, we reveal over 40 affordable French fashion brands, including mid-range labels and local favorites. All perfect for travelers who want style without overspending.
Plus, if you're a non-EU resident, we'll show you how to claim a VAT refund on your purchases using Zapptax.
Don’t miss our guide to the cheap shopping areas in the city, from hidden gems to popular streets locals love.
Key takeaways
- Explore over 40 affordable French fashion brands adored by locals, including Sézane, Rouje, Claudie Pierlot, Maje, Sandro, Soeur, Monoprix, Sessùn, Balzac Paris, Maison 123, and more.
- From classic staples to modern pieces, there is a brand for every style and budget.
- As a non-EU tourist, shop tax-free with Zapptax : a smart way to claim your VAT refund on both in-store and online purchases. Combine invoices from different stores, upload them to the app, and get your refund easily after leaving the EU.
What defines French fashion style ?
French styling is all about effortless elegance.
Think neutral tones, crisp tailoring, Breton stripes, and perfectly chosen basics. It is a timeless look, minimal, confident, and always chic.
How do we define "affordable" French fashion brands ?
For this guide, we focused on brands that offer :
- A mid-range price point (more than fast fashion, less than luxury)
- Quality materials and design
- Strong presence in France (online or in-store)
- Alignment with classic French aesthetics
Prices range from 15€ basics to 300€ pieces for investment items. But many brands regularly offer seasonal discounts and outlet options.
Our 40 favorites affordable French clothing brands
1. Sézane
We love Sézane’s Parisian blend of vintage charm and modern tailoring. Their dresses are feminine yet easy to wear, and their knitwear feels high-end but still accessible. The brand is also deeply committed to sustainability.
2. Rouje
Created by influencer Jeanne Damas, Rouje captures the essence of effortless French seduction. We adore their silky slip dresses and retro-inspired prints. It’s all about sensuality without trying too hard.
3. Claudie Pierlot
A perfect mix of preppy and playful, Claudie Pierlot is ideal for city girls who love polished outfits. Their structured mini dresses and Peter Pan collar tops are staples. We’re obsessed with their bold yet feminine tailoring.
4. Maje
If you're after polished yet edgy looks, Maje delivers every time. Their blazers and dresses strike the right balance between chic and cool. Ideal for work-to-weekend transitions.
5. Sandro
Sandro’s clean lines and modern silhouettes are adored by Parisian trendsetters. Their outerwear is especially worth the splurge. We love their ability to stay minimal yet fashion-forward.
6. Isabel Marant / Marant Étoile
The epitome of boho-cool, Isabel Marant is a fashion editor favorite. Her Marant Étoile line offers more accessible price points while keeping the signature Parisian flair. We’re big fans of her suede boots and flowy printed blouses.
7. Ba&sh
Think of Ba&sh as your go-to for feminine pieces with a rock 'n' roll edge. We love their floaty dresses paired with structured jackets. It’s relaxed French glamour done right.
8. The Kooples
With roots in rock-inspired fashion, The Kooples brings edgy tailoring to the French wardrobe. Their blazers and military coats are wardrobe heroes. We adore their romantic-meets-grunge vibe.
9. Octobre
The menswear counterpart to Sézane, Octobre nails that casual French elegance. Their crisp shirts, structured jackets, and soft knits make building a timeless wardrobe feel easy. It’s French fashion for men who want quiet confidence.
10. Balzac Paris
Balzac Paris is sustainable, ethical, and oh-so-French. We love their delicate blouses and vintage-style denim. A conscious brand with true Parisian soul.
11. Les Tricots Marcel
We adore their retro-style ribbed tanks and 100% French cotton. It is the kind of brand that brings vintage back into everyday life. Perfect under a blazer or paired with high-waisted denim.
12. Soeur
Soeur captures effortless minimalism with a hint of tomboy charm. Their oversized shirts, masculine tailoring and clean palettes are a dream for lovers of understated cool. It’s the fashion editor’s insider pick.
13. Soi Paris
Soi Paris injects fun into French style with bold, artistic prints. Each piece tells a story. We can’t get enough of their joyful silk blouses.
14. American Vintage
Despite the name, this Marseille-born brand focuses on soft textures and relaxed fits. Their layering basics are exceptional. The knits and tees are an everyday essential.
15. Musier Paris
Founded by Anne-Laure Mais, Musier blends nostalgic vibes with contemporary cool. Their cut-out tops and midi dresses are made for Paris rooftops.
16. Monoprix
A French essential for stylish basics and surprisingly chic fashion collections. Known for its collaborations with French designers, Monoprix delivers casual elegance at everyday prices.
17. Sessùn
Based in Marseille, Sessùn designs earthy, vintage-inflected clothing. We love their belted dresses and soft knits. It is effortless style with artisan spirit.
18. Maison Standards
Maison Standards focuses on elevated basics with ethical values. Their organic cotton tees and merino knits are incredibly well made. A go-to for timeless essentials.
19. Des Petits Hauts
Ultra-feminine and cozy, this brand is a favorite for delicate blouses and whimsical prints. Their sweaters are dreamy. French layering at its finest.
20. Leon & Harper
Playful, bohemian, and sustainably minded, this Parisian label is easy to love. We adore their slogan tees and embroidered blouses. It’s casual French with heart.
21. A.P.C.
Known for clean, minimalist fashion, A.P.C. is the king of cool French denim. Their raw jeans are a cult favorite. We also love their simple tote bags and no-fuss shirting.
22. Petit Bateau
This heritage brand is famous for soft cotton basics and the classic Breton stripe top. Their clothes are comfy yet iconic. A French wardrobe isn’t complete without a marinière from Petit Bateau.
23. Eric Bompard
The French authority on luxurious cashmere. A splurge, but with timeless elegance.
24. La Petite Mendigote
Parisian accessories and ready-to-wear with boho influences. Great for patterned dresses and cute crossbody bags.
25. Le T-shirt Propre
Eco-friendly, comfortable, and made entirely in France. Their t-shirts are the perfect building blocks for a conscious wardrobe.
26. Repetto
Famous for their ballet flats, Repetto brings a graceful flair to any outfit. Their footwear is handmade in France and beloved by generations. If you want to walk like a Parisian, start here.
27. Neuvième Ciel
Maternity wear that’s stylish, flattering, and thoughtfully made in France. Their wrap dresses and bump-friendly jumpsuits are a favorite among French mums-to-be. Finally, chic doesn’t stop at pregnancy.
28. Cocorico
This fun and patriotic brand celebrates French culture with a sense of humor. Think cheeky slogans and ultra-comfy cotton. A playful addition to any suitcase.
29. Epiko
This brand offers colorful, soft, and gender-neutral kidswear with a focus on inclusivity. We love their gentle color palettes and commitment to sustainability. Another French gem for little ones."
30. Suzon & Suzette
Handcrafted accessories made in Lyon by people with disabilities. Their scrunchies, pouches and bow ties make sweet, meaningful gifts. Small items, big impact.
31. La Redoute Collections
One of France’s most loved online retailers with in-house labels. Expect seasonal styles, great basics, and frequent sales.
32. Marie Sixtine
Romantic, subtle, and wearable. The perfect balance of modern femininity and comfort.
33. Maison 123
The sophisticated sister brand to Etam. Great for polished blouses and structured basics.
34. Zadig & Voltaire
Rock ’n’ roll meets Parisian chic. We love their edgy silhouettes, buttery leather jackets and luxe basics with attitude. Perfect for adding a rebellious twist to classic French girl style.
35. La Vie est Belt
Who knew old bike tires could look so chic ? This Lille-based brand creates belts and accessories from upcycled materials. French ingenuity at its best !
36. Reiko Jeans
Sleek French denim brand offering great cuts and city-smart pieces. Perfect for capsule wardrobes.
37. Pimkie
Trendy and youthful, Pimkie offers Gen Z-friendly styles at unbeatable prices. Their seasonal collections are great for basics and quick wardrobe refreshes.
37. Armor-Lux
Armor-Lux is famous for its classic Breton stripes sailor shirts and coastal-inspired wardrobe staples. Made in Brittany in 1938, it blends timeless style with durable, high-quality fabrics. We love their marinières, they instantly give you that effortlessly French look.
38. Bensimon
The iconic French canvas tennis shoe brand. Casual, colorful, and perfect for summer strolls.
39. Kapoune
For kids’ fashion that respects both the planet and your style standards. Their organic cotton pieces are perfect for gifting or dressing. Adorable, ethical and 100% made in France.
40. Kiabi
A family favorite in France, Kiabi offers shockingly affordable pieces that still nod to current trends. Their Breton tops and smart-casual staples are hidden gems.
Tax-free shopping in France with Zapptax
If you live outside the EU, you're entitled to claim a VAT refund on your French purchases.
Instead of handling traditional paperwork in each store, you can simplify the entire process using the Zapptax app.
Why use Zapptax ?
- Works with any store
- Combine purchases across brands to meet the refund threshold
- Fully digital process via the Zapptax app
- Eligible for both in-store and online orders
- Get your refund securely and more easily than with paper forms
How it works :
- Download Zapptax and create your account.
- At checkout, ask the store for an invoice in the name of Zapptax.
- Upload all your invoices to the app.
- Validate the tax-free form at Customs when leaving the EU.
- Get your refund after departure.
Zapptax works seamlessly with many of the brands in this guide, especially useful if you’re shopping across multiple stores.
Final tips for dressing French on a budget
- Stick to basics : A striped top, a blazer, dark denim, and a great trench coat go a long way.
- Mix high and low : Pair Monoprix pants with a Claudie Pierlot blouse.
- Shop local : The Kooples, La Redoute, and Maison 123 are go-to for affordable style.
- Think long-term : Prioritize quality over quantity.
And remember, with Zapptax, your French fashion finds are even more affordable.
FAQ
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Where can I buy affordable and trendy clothes in Paris, France?
You’ll find great and trendy fashion in Paris at stores like Sézane, Monoprix, Maje or even The Koople. For even more budget-friendly options, check out Kiabi, Monoprix or head to the Marais for trendy multi-brand boutiques.
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Where do French people usually buy their everyday clothes, shoes and bags ?
French women often mix high and low fashion shopping at accessible chains like Zara, Mango, and Monoprix for basics, while also investing in French brands like Sézane, Maje, and Claudie Pierlot for more elevated pieces. Local boutiques, markets, and sustainable brands are also popular for unique finds and wardrobe staples.
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Can I include online purchases in my VAT refund?
Yes, you can include online purchases in your VAT refund as long as the seller is located in France and you get an invoice in Zapptax’s name with a VAT number. With Zapptax, it's even easier : you just ship your online orders to your hotel or accommodation in France and upload the invoice to your Zapptax app. Make sure to enter Zapptax’s billing address at checkout when placing your online order. For more detailed steps, read our guide to tax-free online shopping in France.
