Culture

Best TV Shows and Films for French Style Inspiration

Looking for some French-style inspiration? Check out these classic fashion-forward films and TV shows.

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Paris' prominent influence on fashion has been here for decades. From esteemed designers to chic Parisian street style, French fashion's impact has no limits. From Audrey Hepburn in Funny Face to Leighton Meester in Gossip Girl, if you're looking for some French-style inspo, here are six fashion-centred films and tv shows that birthed some of the best onscreen costume moments.

Funny Face

Audrey Hepburn wedding dress in funny face
audrey hepburn wearing a hunter green coat in funny face
audrey hepburn after her transformation in funny face
audrey hepburn wearing a red dress while posing in the louvre

Audrey Hepburn's wardrobe in Funny Face is the epitome of French fashion. Along with the film mostly taking place in Paris, Hepburn's entire wardrobe for the film was created by the coveted designer Givenchy. Hepburn and Givenchy actually went on to build a life-long friendship and have collaborated several times throughout their respective careers. The designer is also responsible for the actress's iconic black dress from the opening scene in Breakfast at Tiffany's.

Emily in Paris

lily collins filming 'emily in paris' while wearing a black and white blazer and a red beret
camille razat on set of 'emily in paris' and wearing a beige plaid dress
lily collins and lucien laviscount on the set of 'emily in paris'
lily collins and ashley park sitting on a bench

Emily in Paris is the modern fashion series giving everyone all the French inspo they could need. The show displays a fresh take on classic French fashions. It's colourful and flirty just like the cast. Hopefully, with the upcoming third season, we'll have even more French-style inspo to add to the list. 

Yves Saint Laurent

the cast of 'yves saint laurent' in paris
model wearing a black dress and hat, pearls, and gloves

This French biopic follows the career journey of renowned designer Yves Saint Laurent. From his time as Artistic Director for Dior to the final show of his career. Along the way, the film shows his creative thought process and the muses he meets to inspire his craft. The film is a glimpse into the mind of YSL and how the designer came to be. Of course, the biopic fleets through some of his most iconic designs, like the timeless Mondrian dress and his sleek power suits. This film is a must-watch for Parisian style.

Gossip Girl

leighton meester on set of 'gossip girl' in a red gown
leighton meester and blake lively in paris for 'gossip girl'
leighton meester during an episode of 'gossip girl' in a purple dress and carrying shopping bags

Gossip Girl is a series about lies, gossip, and, most importantly–fashion. The show takes place in one of the largest fashion capitals and sometimes goes off location to film in another. The Paris episode is loved by many and produced some of the best looks during the series run. While the show isn't on anymore, there's nothing wrong with a quick rewatch binge.  

The Collection

woman in a yellow dress and umbrella standing in front of the eiffel tower
the cast of 'the collection' sitting on the stairs
woman in a unique wedding dress and holding a white flower

The Collection follows a Paris fashion house post World War II. After the war, Parisian fashion seemed like an afterthought. It was the age of revivals. The series tells of two brothers rebuilding their business from scratch. In the midst of the dramatic twists and turns, the show was still able to convey the glitz and glamour of French fashion. 

Moulin Rouge

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person human clothing apparel

Moulin Rouge tells the story of two forbidden lovers—an English poet and a cabaret singer. The musical details their secret affair and Satine's (Nicole Kidman) complicated life at the Moulin Rouge lounge. The period costumes are stunning and add to the film's glamorous yet tragic story. 

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