My mother and I have always had similar tastes. Whether it’s the books we read, the interiors we love or the clothes we’re attracted to, 9 times out of 10, we fall for the same things – Apple. Definitely Doesn’t fall far from the tree. These days, now that I don’t live at home (although I’m still only a tube trip away), we don’t get the chance to go shopping together in real life as often as we used to. We still send each other links to pieces we know the other will enjoy, on a very regular basis – at least once a week.
Often, we gravitate towards the same things: easy dresses, embroidered tops, basket bags, cute shorts and simple sandals that look just as good in the city as they do on vacation. Lately, several pieces that have caught both of our attention have a distinctly French feel. Nothing too trend-based or too styled, just beautifully made clothes that feel really easy to wear.
Three brands in particular have already dominated our conversations this summer: Zara, Cézanne and Doyen. Each offers their own take on that easy, Paris-inspired aesthetic, with pieces that feel timeless rather than tied to a single season.
After a lot of back and forth, we narrowed it down to 15 purchases that we both really love. From throw-on dresses to elevated separates, these are French-inspired summer outfits we’d both happily wear again. So, whether you’re over 50 like her or closer to 30 like me, there’s something you’ll definitely love.
Shop the Zara, Cézanne, and Doane pieces that my mom and I love:
1. Zara
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lace-up flat sandals
These sandals will go well with everything in our wardrobe.
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Zw Collection Satin Shirt with Frog Fastening
We immediately ordered it to try it. Even if you want to wear it loosely, take your normal size, as it runs a little big.
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Midi dress with cutwork embroidery
The embroidery detailing on this dress is very beautiful.
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High Neck Linen Blend Jacket
The perfect spring/summer jacket.
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Zw Collection Loose Barrel Mid-Waist Jeans
I’m cheating here because I already have these jeans and I basically wear them every day. But now even my mother is ordering them!
2. Dun
No one makes blouses like DÔEN.
How beautiful does this look with a matching skirt?
If you’re looking to invest in a timeless summer dress, look no further.
DOEN
Alessia Cashmere Cardigan
Such a cute (and on-trend!) color.
I’ll wear it around town and my mom will wear it on vacation, making it a worthy investment in our shared wardrobe!
3. Cézanne
Cézanne
Justin Basket Bag
No explanation necessary.
The top also looks cute with jeans.
Just throw it on and you’re set!
We’re both fond of a cute simple jumper with a cute collar.
