How To Master French-Girl Allure Straight From Catherine Malandrino

“For a jeune fille look at any age, you must have a little pleated skirt. I love knitted ones—they’re fresh and youthful. Pair with ballerina flats by Repetto—the ballet shoe of the Paris Opera.”

Repetto, $295; zapposcouture.com. 

When in doubt, add a scarf! “They’re playful and chic,” says Malandrino. “Tie a printed one around your bag or neck.”

White House Black Market, $48; whbm.com. 

As for makeup, “a smoky eye or a red lip—but never both at the same time!”

“French women always have beautiful lingerie—silk with a touch of lace. We all care about our underwear!”

Eberjey bra, $56, jounelle.com, and panty, $38, journelle.com. 

Keep nails short and rounded, Malandrino advises. “No French woman goes for long, colored nails,” says the designer. "They do wear polish—but it’s subtle.”

“Always wear an inspiring perfume—make it your signature. I’ve been faithful to white flowers—Serge Lutens A la Nuit.”

Serge Lutens A la Nuit Eau de Parfume, $135 for 50ml; barneys.com. 

When it comes to hair, think Catherine Deneuve, says Malandrino. “Hair is effortless—clean and fresh. No sprays! It’s about seduction—having hair around the face that moves with the wind.”