5 French Girl Summer Microtrends for 2026

As a fashion editor I’ve written countless features about French girl style and their ability to style balance trend and timeless with every look, without having to make much effort. Whilst they may have a consistent capsule wardrobe filled with good jeans, well-made leather accessories and the occasional pop of red, there are also a few microtrends I’ve spotted them embracing that are slightly less expected.

Whilst French style has never been about chasing every fleeting fashion moment, it is about skilfully identifying the trends— even the micro ones—that will weave seamlessly into a classic wardrobe whilst also elevating it.

In practice, that skill often comes down to choosing micro-trends that fall into one of two categories: heritage or craftsmanship. For heritage it’s pieces that have a vintage vibe, like embroidered poplin dresses or sleek drawstring bags, and craftsmanship is all about textures and details that exude quality, like crochet.

5 French Microtrends for Summer 2026

1. Crochet Tops

Style Notes: In previous summers crochet has been a statement associated with festivals and beach dressing, but this season it has had a quiet revival. In neutral tones and smarter silhouettes, it’s a grown-up texture that in top form pairs beautifully with denim and tailoring.

Shop Crochet Tops:

Reformation

Thea Sheer Cotton Crochet Halter

H&M

Pointelle-Knit Top With Scarf

ZARA

Crochet Combination Top

MARIA MCMANUS

Cashmere and Cotton-Blend Crocheted Polo Shirt

Mint Velvet

Cotton Blend Embellished Crochet Waistcoat

2. Striped Trousers

Influencer Sarah Rose Palm wearing blue striped trousers.

Style Notes: The French know their way around stripes, and while it may be too hot for Bretons, they’re making up for it in other ways. Replacing jeans and a refreshing alternative to plain linen, striped trousers in bold colourways have become the go-to way to add a pop of colour to neutral basics like shirts, blouses and tank tops.

Shop Striped Trousers:

COS

Piped Striped Drawstring Trousers

M&S

Pure Cotton Striped Wide Leg Trousers

SIR

Alva Striped Cotton Wide-Leg Pants

Massimo Dutti

Satin Pants With Tie-Up Hem Detail

Boden

Mayfair Linen Trousers

3. Pouch Bags

Influencer Alice Pilate wearing a green satin pouch bag.

Style Notes: From the runways of Prada and Valentino to the streets of Paris, drawstring pouches are the elegant bag trend replacing clutches for evening and occasion dressing. They’re sleek, practically roomy and perfect for packing into even the smallest of suitcases, making them a chic holiday essential.