At the start of every season, I look for style inspiration to guide the season’s wardrobe. And this Spring/Summer, I was determined to achieve french girl style (especially after binge watching Plan Couer).

If you’ve ever been to Paris or anywhere in France, you know exactly what I’m talking about (because you, like I, came home wondering how you could do it too). Let’s face it, French women just have the most effortless way about them. The look is always intentional, but never overdone. A few illustrative examples – a dewy, bare face with a bright or bold lip; slightly tousled, but never messy hair; a simple chignon with a floral wrap dress; a tailored, but breezy ensemble; jeans, ballet flats, blazer and a perfectly wrapped scarf – I could go on and on.

Now, don’t get me wrong, us New Yorkers know what we’re doing too, but wardrobes can only benefit from fresh inspiration. And, french girl style translates so well for warmer temps. My personal style transformation began with getting curtain bangs a few months back (currently still obsessed, but they sometimes have a mind of their own – pas bon), opting for a brighter/ bolder lip and more neutral eye and finally, incorporating a few new silhouettes in classic parisian prints, fabrics and colors.

For a rooftop, summer kickoff party, I decided to give my version of french girl style a try. Thankfully, THE CUTEST polka dot mini dress with exaggerated puff sleeves from Choosy had just arrived. This dress has all the french girl details – polka dots, button through detail, puff sleeves, mini hemline. To complete the look, I added some soft waves, a bold red lip, gold ball drop earrings and carried a dainty black mini satchel (petite bags are so french right now – à la jacquemus). Finally, for some height and to emphasize the polka dots, I wore my favorite studded black suede heels from Kenneth Cole.