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What’s This About
This is the shopping list for a men’s Parisian Chic wardrobe: the essential shirts, trousers, shoes, outerwear and accessories, almost all with a luxury and an affordable option.
It covers the practical side of building the wardrobe, such as:
white shirts, Oxford button-downs, black roll-necks and Breton tops
chinos, dark jeans and grey flannels
loafers, Chelsea boots, white trainers and Oxfords
a trench coat, navy blazer, leather jacket and simple accessories
and many more!
Brand availability and prices change, so check current ranges before buying.
Key Points
01A Parisian Chic wardrobe is built from a short list of garments chosen for fit, fabric and neutral colour.
02Almost every category here has a high-end option and an affordable one, so you can mix budgets.
03Neutral colours (navy, grey, black, white, beige) let almost every garment work with every other.
04For what defines the look, and for complete outfits, see the companion Parisian Chic guides.
To style the Parisian Chic fashion look to perfection, your wardrobe must centre around timeless, high-quality garments that showcase classic sophistication and modern versatility.
Each garment, accessory and pair of shoes must be chosen with an eye for detail, ensuring that your entire look reflects the much coveted Parisian elegance.
Here, we outline essential garments that define the Parisian Chic aesthetic, offering two choices: the original luxury brands and the affordable alternatives to help you achieve this style without compromise.
Tops
The backbone of a Parisian chic wardrobe lies in well-pressed, fitted white dress shirts in fine cotton.
Eton offers high-end options, while Marks & Spencer provides reliable, affordable alternatives.
Light blue Oxford button-downs are also crucial for a refined yet relaxed appearance.
Try Ralph Lauren for a premium feel or J.Crew for quality at a lower price point.
Black fine-knit turtlenecks made from cashmere or merino wool add sophistication: Loro Piana creates exceptional garments, but John Lewis offers excellent budget-friendly options.
A Breton stripe top, characterised by navy and white horizontal stripes, is perfect for casual outings. Saint James has authentic versions, while ASOS offers affordable alternatives.
Trousers
Slim-fit chinos in neutral shades such as beige and navy are essential for maintaining a streamlined appearance.
Brunello Cucinelli offers luxury chinos, while Uniqlo provides budget-friendly yet stylish options.
Dark wash jeans with minimal detailing create a smart-casual foundation; Levi’s provides reliable jeans, and Nudie Jeans offers high-end selvedge denim.
For formal or semi-formal occasions, medium-grey flannel trousers are indispensable. Look to Canali for high-quality options or H&M for more affordable yet classic choices.
Footwear
Polished black leather loafers are a cornerstone of the Parisian Chic aesthetic.
Consider luxury brands like John Lobb for exquisite craftsmanship or Clarks for an affordable version.
Brown suede Chelsea boots add variety and are perfect for autumn and winter: try Church’s for high-end boots or ASOS for a budget-friendly option.
Clean white leather sneakers are ideal for a contemporary touch, and Common Projects offers premium minimalist sneakers, while Adidas Stan Smiths provide a stylish, affordable choice.
For formal occasions, black cap-toe Oxfords polished to a mirror shine are essential. Try Crockett & Jones for luxury or Dune London for more accessible pricing.
Outerwear
A beige trench coat is indispensable for transitional weather. Opt for a classic design with a belted waist and storm flaps.
High-end choices include Burberry, renowned for its heritage trench coats, while affordable alternatives like Mango Man or Uniqlo offer high-quality versions that maintain a polished look.
A tailored navy blazer is another must-have, perfect for both business and casual occasions.
Consider investing in a blazer from Boglioli for luxury or from Charles Tyrwhitt for an affordable yet sophisticated option.
For a touch of edge, a dark brown or black leather jacket completes the outerwear essentials: look to Saint Laurent for a designer garment or AllSaints for a more budget-friendly version.
Accessories
Accessories should complement your outfit without drawing attention away from it.
A leather-strap watch is timeless; consider brands like Jaeger-LeCoultre for high-end timepieces or Seiko for quality at a reasonable price.
A silk pocket square in neutral tones adds subtle sophistication: Hermès offers luxury options, while John Lewis provides budget-friendly versions.
Slim leather belts in black and brown should also be part of your essentials.
A lightweight cashmere or fine wool scarf adds Parisian flair: Loro Piana for luxury, Zara for an affordable option.
Conclusion
Building a Parisian Chic wardrobe means prioritising quality, timelessness, and versatility.
For what defines the style, read What is Parisian Chic Style?, for complete looks, our Parisian Chic outfit ideas for every season, and for how to wear each garment, our full Parisian Chic styling guide for men.
By selecting garments like tailored blazers, crisp shirts, slim trousers, and classic footwear, you can achieve a sophisticated and effortless look.
With both luxury and affordable brand options, you can curate a wardrobe that reflects the Parisian philosophy of understated elegance without breaking the bank.
Style Like A True Gentleman
Many image consultants work in a similar order, and you can follow it yourself.
Professional styling usually starts with your body shape and seasonal colour palette, which help you choose clothes that fit well in colours that work with your skin, eyes and hair.
From there, it is easier to dress for the occasion, location, season and time of day, choosing garments, footwear and accessories, including designs from heritage fashion brands where they suit you.
You can start on your own with our three quizzes, then book a consultation if you would like personal help.
1. Check Your Body Shape
Different garments suit different silhouettes, so knowing your body shape is a practical first step.
Take our body shape quiz for men.
2. Find Your Seasonal Colours
The garments in your outfits come in many colours, and some work better with your natural colouring than others.
To explore your seasonal colour palette, take our seasonal colour quiz for men.
3. Find Your Fashion Style
Next, look at your personal fashion style.
Our fashion style quiz for men suggests a style, outfit ideas and brands to explore.
Personal Help from The VOU
If you would like personal help, you can ask our image consultants and fashion stylists.
Our styling services for men are paid consultations; the shop page lists what each one includes.
Wearing luxury brands is not enough on its own; knowing your body shape, colour palette and personal style comes first.
Contact us to book a consultation.