How To Wear A Beret Like A French Girl

The beret is the perfect combination of class and casual wear. The Parisian version of a beanie, the beret is the perfect headwear to keep you warm throughout the fall and winter. 

If a beret is not part of your typical style, now is the time to change that! It’s an unexpected accessory in the Western world, and it can be worn with just about any outfit combo.

A classic black beret is a great staple to have in your closet, and it will allow you to easily channel French girl vibes with just the addition of a cardigan and a pair of ballet flats. If you prefer a beret with structure, this felt one from Urban Outfitters will hold its shape all day.

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Urban Outfitters Lillie Felt Beret, $25

Especially for the winter months, a wool beret is an adorable accessory with longer coats and holiday looks. This one from Free People is an adorable white color, and has that Hallmark-worthy look you’d expect from a winter in France. 

Free People Du Jour Beret, $28

Another wool beret option, available in both neutral and bright hues, is reminiscent of the classic French beret. 

Anthropologie Wyeth Wool Beret, $38

And if you are looking for more than just a solid color top, try this houndstooth pick from Anthropologie. The black and white pattern pairs well with your favorite coat, and will offer some interest to your most basic fall fashion. 

Anthropologie Knit Houndstooth Beret, $40

How To Style a Beret in Your Hair

Standard French fashion guides indicate that the beret should be slightly tilted to either the right or left, and should sit about ¾ of the way up your forehead. Berets are also a great way to add volume to your hair, especially if you have relatively flat hair in need of an extra lift. 

The first step in styling and properly wearing a beret is setting it on your head correctly. If you plan on leaving your hair down and undone (as it is the French way), you can simply place the beret on your head and wiggle it until it is secure. The beret has a specific brim underneath that will fit snugly on your head, preventing it from sliding down. 

A cute updo is also an option with a beret. A low bun will fit perfectly under the beret, as long as the hair is secure and tidy underneath. Leave a few front pieces out of the bun for a classically undone look.  A few bobby pins will hold a bun in place – just avoid any particularly large, flashy hair accessories like a claw clip that will draw attention away from the beret. Multiple contrasting hair accessories is not a good look!

French girls are also known for their beautifully undone look, so keep your makeup light and fresh. A good blush is essential for a French girl, especially in a soft red or pink hue. If you feel like something is missing from your beauty routine, add a fun lip or a light swipe of eyeliner. 

Wondering how a beret will fit into your current closet? Here are a few easy ways to wear a beret like a French girl! 

With a Turtleneck

During the fall and winter seasons, turtlenecks become a necessity regardless of where you live. Extra layers and cozy accessories are essential for colder days, and you can still create a chic outfit. A beret adds a subtle touch to your outfits, while also keeping your head warm and covered in a fashionable way.

Neutrals

There is something so classy about an outfit based entirely on neutral tones. Capsule wardrobes are popular for a reason! If color is outside your comfort zone and outside the current bounds of your wardrobe, a black beret is the perfect way to add a little something extra to your outfit. Build a basic outfit in shades of white, brown, or black, and then include a beret for structure. 

A Pop of Color

French women are also masters of color in their style, and a beret is a great way to balance colors or add interest to a look. Or, if you already include color in your overall outfit, a colorful beret will be the perfect way to complete a cohesive look. 

Tall, Heeled Boots

A simple black and white color combo will work for any occasion and looks put together with the right silhouettes and accessories! In this case, those accessories are tall, heeled boots and a beret. This look is classy and elegant, perfect for a girls' night out or afternoon shopping! 

Wide-Leg Pants

Another fall fashion must-have is the wide-leg pant, whether you opt for light-wash denim or even a cream-colored pant. You can wear them with a sweater, a coat, or even a solid color tee, depending on the season. Add a cute belt as an extra detail, and finish the look with a matching beret!

If your workwear needs a bit of inspiration from Emily in Paris, add a beret for a touch of color and French girl elegance. A pair of trousers and a button-down is a simple office-appropriate look, and a pop of color on your head will tie the outfit together!

With a Dress

We all love wearing dresses in the fall, and a great way to style them for the colder seasons is with warm accessories! For a Parisian chic look, keep the colors as neutral as possible and add a beret in a coordinating color. You can layer a shirt under a slip dress for an effortless look or choose a structured, long sleeve dress for an elegant style. 

Coordinate with a Statement Top

If your outfit is centered around a statement top, like a patterned sweater or vest, a matching beret is a great way to create a cohesive outfit. Statement tops pair well with solid color berets and basic accessories that add, but don’t distract, from the main piece. And, of course, if Parisian style is your goal, don’t forget stripes! 

Closing Thoughts

French women are experts in the world of fashion, and we can learn a lot about style from them! Will you be wearing a beret with your outfits this season?

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