Let's be honest, when it comes to style, French girls have mastered the art of effortless cool. And, if I'm being honest, looking like I just rolled out of bed in a perfectly disheveled but tres chic outfit is my ultimate goal in life.

Marion Cotillard, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Jeanne Damas, and Lou Doillon are just a few fashionable femmes that embody that "je ne sais quoi," and with a few key items, a little bit of attitude, and some help from us, you too can harness that french vibe (minus the cigarettes and baguettes of course).

Before we get to the goods, here are a few quick rules to live by: keep things very simple and timeless, make sure your clothes are perfectly tailored, don't pile on the statement accessories, nothing too girly, quality over quantity, giant logos aren't your friend, and when in doubt, wear black. Okay that's more than a few rules, but let's get started.

Key Item 1: The Dress

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Nothing says "I haven't tried at all and I look incredible" like wearing one single item of clothing. And when you have that perfect dress, happen to be standing in front of some abstract art a la Jeanne Damas, wham bam thank you ma'am, you're done. Key things to look for - low cut, wrap styles with an interesting print and maybe a few discreet details like ruffles or buttons. And keep your accessories minimal - small earrings or a necklace with a flat sandal. See our picks below.

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The Goldie - Star Struck, $195 USD, www.realisationpar.com

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Serengeti Dress in Tomato, $218 USD, www.reformation.com

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The Laura Dress, $180 USD, www.rouje.com

Key Item 2: The Jean

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There's nothing French women love more than a well-worn, high-waisted jean with a cute top tucked in. Somehow they all own this mysterious, perfect jean that I've been on the hunt for for most of my life. Currently, the loose-fitting crop is where it's at, but they also flirt with bell bottoms, culottes (obviously), and vintage skinnies in blue, black, and even white. Add an ankle boot or a wedge and voilà. Parfait.

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AGOLDE X UO 90s High Rise Jean, $149, www.urbanoutfitters.com

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7 For All Mankind High Rise Skinny, $253.72, www.revolve.com

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Maje Flared Cotton Jeans, $88 USD, www.maje.com

Key Item 3: The Tee

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Here's the deal: whether it's vintage, new, plain, or striped, the t-shirt is always tucked in, never too baggy, and usually has a sense of humour. Add a belt to pull it all together and top it off with a blazer or a bomber et vous êtes très chic.

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Zadig & Voltaire Long-Sleeved Striped Jersey Tee, $118 USD, www.neimanmarcus.com

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Red L'Ecole Tee, $69 USD, www.lecoledesfemmes.com

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Vanessa Seward Drum T-Shirt, $119 USD, www.vanessaseward.com

Key Item 4: The Jacket

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Jacket-wise, all you need in your arsenal is: a great leather jacket with no embellishments so it will never go out of style, a classic trench, and a slightly oversized blazer. Again, so simple, but these three items will go with everything in your wardrobe. I say splurge a little bit on these and go for higher quality because they'll last you a lifetime.

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Balfern Leather Biker Jacket, $625, www.allsaints.com

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H&M Trenchcoat, $89.99, www.hm.com

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Isabel Marant Etoile Ice Houndstooth Wool-Blend Blazer, $490 USD, www.net-a-porter.com

Key Item 5: The Blouse

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I feel like the French invented wearing your boyfriend's oversized white button down with bedhead and red lipstick - am I making this up? Anyway, the blouse is v v important - you want to go with silk tops that are classic and feminine and have a good amount of flow. Tie necks are very big right now and wide, open collars are always flattering and help elongate the neck.

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Rouje Momo Top, $120 USD, www.rouje.com

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Reformation Violet Top, $128 USD, www.reformation.com

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Balenciaga Sleeve-Split Georgette Blouse, $1,820, www.matchesfashion.com

Key Item 6: The Shoe

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Yes, Louboutins are from Paris, but unless they're hitting a red carpet, les Francais don't often wear heels. For one, old cobblestone streets, and two, comfort. Okay fine, maybe a kitten or a wedge once in awhile, but never a 6-inch stiletto. Always keep footwear fun and a little unexpected.

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Sandro Leather Ankle Boot, $395 USD, www.sandro-paris.com

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J. Crew Corsica Espadrille Wedges, $162, www.jcrew.com

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Repetto Cendrillon Ballet Flats, $268.76, www.shopbop.com