If you love scrolling through Zara for the latest trends that look like they just stepped off the runway, you're in good company. Zara has mastered the art of delivering chic, minimalist pieces at prices that make it easy to keep your wardrobe fresh and exciting.
But if you're looking to capture that stylish vibe with a little French flair, there are so many amazing brands to discover. For those who love Zara's on-trend approach but want pieces with a certain je ne sais quoi, here are 18 French and French-inspired brands worth checking out.
Sezane feels like Zara’s sophisticated, eco-conscious older sister. The brand offers effortlessly chic, French-inspired collections known for high-quality fabrics and feminine, vintage-inspired details. It’s perfect for building a timeless wardrobe with pieces that feel more special and are made to last longer than a single season.
Prices for essentials are generally between $50 and $200, making it a slight step up from Zara but great for investing in key items like stylish blouses, cozy knits, and elegant dresses. If you want Zara’s style but with better craftsmanship, Sezane is the one to shop.
Shop now at sezane.com
For those who love Zara's trendy pieces but crave something with a bit more edge, Maje is a perfect fit. This Parisian label delivers a feminine, boho-chic vibe with standout dresses, cool leather jackets, and statement accessories. It’s effortlessly cool with a modern, youthful energy.
With prices ranging from about $150 to $500, Maje is more of an investment, but its curated collections, luxe fabrics, and bold prints offer high-impact pieces that truly elevate your style beyond fast fashion.
Shop now at maje.com
Sandro strikes the perfect balance between trendy silhouettes and a sleek, minimalist aesthetic. The brand is known for its incredible tailoring, creating structured blazers, chic trousers, and versatile staples that have a distinctly Parisian polish. Think of it as the go-to for your French "cool girl" uniform.
Unlike Zara's weekly drops, Sandro focuses on high-quality, long-lasting pieces that range from $100 to $400. It's ideal if you’re ready to invest in impeccably cut staples you can dress up or down for years to come.
Shop now at sandro-paris.com
Founded by French influencer Jeanne Damas, Rouje is the embodiment of the cool, effortless Parisian spirit. The brand focuses on romantic, vintage-inspired pieces like perfect-fit floral dresses, pretty button-up blouses, and retro denim that channels '70s movie stars.
With prices primarily from $50 to $200, it competes with Zara's higher end but offers a more distinct, cohesive aesthetic. If you're tired of trend-chasing and want a look that feels both classic and perfectly undone, Rouje is your destination.
Shop now at rouje.com
A.P.C. (Atelier de Production et de Creation) is known for its minimalist, clean-cut wardrobe essentials, especially its iconic raw denim. It has a more pared-back and classic feel than Zara, focusing on impeccable fit and high-quality materials rather than fleeting trends.
Prices usually fall between $100 and $300 for their highly coveted jeans and other casual staples. It's the perfect brand for building a strong foundation of versatile basics, like the perfect t-shirt or trench coat, with an understated Parisian elegance.
Shop now at apc-us.com
If you love Zara’s sleek designs but want to inject some rock ‘n’ roll attitude, check out The Kooples. The brand masterfully blends Parisian sophistication with an edgy twist, offering sharp tailoring, leather accents, and moody floral prints. It’s cool, a little rebellious, and always chic.
Price points range from about $100 to $400. While Zara brings you the latest trends at mach speed, The Kooples gives you statement pieces designed to give your wardrobe a cool, luxe vibe that feels more permanent.
Shop now at thekooples.com
Playful, feminine, and preppy, Claudie Pierlot is Zara with a dash of classic fun. You'll find bright colors, cute Peter Pan collars, polka dots, and timeless silhouettes that all feel distinctly Parisian. It's perfect for anyone who wants a more polished, vintage-inspired look.
Pieces generally cost between $150 and $400. This brand is less about copying runway trends and more about quality fabrics and refined elegance, making its pieces ideal for workwear or elevating your casual weekend outfits.
Shop now at claudiepierlot.com
Ba&sh offers a relaxed, boho-chic style that feels both beautiful and incredibly comfortable. If you’re drawn to Zara’s dresses, you'll love Ba&sh’s collection of flowy maxis, cozy sweaters, and versatile separates. The entire brand feels like an invitation to build an effortless, everyday wardrobe.
With prices between $100 and $300, it's focused on a laid-back femininity that's perfect for a Parisian-inspired casual look. It’s all about easy-to-wear pieces with a touch of romantic charm that feel less trendy and more timeless.
Shop now at bash.fr
Vero Moda offers trendy, affordable fashion with a youthful, casual vibe similar to Zara's essentials line. You can find everything from cute tops and jeans to easy dresses and outerwear, all at an incredibly accessible price point - usually between $20 and $80.
While still on-trend, Vero Moda's staples feel a bit more relaxed and everyday-focused. It's a fantastic option for budget-conscious shoppers who want to refresh their closet with stylish basics without the Zara price tag.
Shop now at veromoda.com
For those who find Zara a bit too minimalist at times, Kling is a breath of fresh air. This contemporary brand is beloved for its bold prints, quirky details, vibrant colors, and playful silhouettes. It’s a great place to find unique, eye-catching pieces that express more personality.
Price points typically hover between $100-$300. Where Zara covers every trend, Kling specializes in eclectic styles that stand out from the crowd. It’s perfect for adding an artistic, fun flair to your wardrobe.
Shop now at usa.na-kd.com/en/brands/kling
Gerard Darel represents a more classic and sophisticated side of French fashion. Famous for its timeless clothing and elegant handbags (remember the iconic "24-hour Bag"?), this label prioritizes quality craftsmanship and chic, understated style for a polished, professional look.
Pieces range from $200 up to $600. Unlike Zara's focus on what's hot right now, Gerard Darel designs wardrobe staples meant to look elegant for years, making it a wonderful brand to turn to for investment pieces like a beautiful silk blouse or tailored coat.
Shop now at gerarddarel.com
C&A is an ultra-affordable spot for casual fashion basics for the entire family. Prices are incredibly low - think $10 to $50 - making it the perfect place to shop for everyday essentials like plain t-shirts, simple denim, and easygoing seasonal wear.
While Zara is all about bringing trends to the masses, C&A's strength lies in providing reliable, budget-friendly basics. It's a great choice when you just need to fill in wardrobe gaps without spending much at all.
Shop now at c-and-a.com/fr
For the true fashion lover, Rejina Pyo offers a Parisian-inspired aesthetic that feels both artistic and wearable. The brand focuses on innovative shapes, unexpected colors, and striking prints. It's clothes for people who aren't afraid to stand out and appreciate unique design.
Rather than quick trends, Pyo emphasizes unique silhouettes and craftsmanship, creating pieces in the $200 to $600 range. It's the perfect brand for finding that extra-special statement piece that blends modern art with everyday style.
Shop now at rejinapyo.com
A New York brand that has fully mastered the spirit of modern luxury, Khaite is for those who love elevated basics and impeccable quality. With a focus on sensuous materials like cashmere and sharp tailoring, it offers timeless wardrobe staples that exude an understated, powerful confidence.
With prices ranging from $300 to well over $1,000, Khaite is a true luxury investment brand. Rather than chasing Zara’s trends, you’re investing in exceptionally well-made pieces - like their famous cashmere cardigans - that will define your wardrobe for years.
Shop now at khaite.com
IRO takes the effortless cool of Paris and infuses it with a sleek, edgy vibe. The brand is a go-to for modern leather jackets, sharp-shouldered blouses, and streamlined dresses that feel both rebellious and put-together. It’s perfect for creating a city-chic look that works day or night.
Their collections are more curated and high-end than Zara’s lineup, with pieces falling between $150 and $600. It’s for shoppers who want versatile, statement-making clothing that will last much longer than fleeting seasonal trends.
Shop now at iroparis.com
If cozy, classic French style is what you're after, look no further than Le Mont St. Michel. While Zara covers everything, this brand specializes in beautifully crafted, timeless knitwear - think perfect striped sweaters, soft cardigans, and quality wool pieces.
With prices around $50 to $150, its core appeal is comfy, durable, and effortlessly stylish casualwear. It's the ideal brand for finding those cozy essentials that will make you feel chic on a crisp weekend outing.
Shop now at lemontsaintmichel.fr
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