This summer, I spent some time in Europe, flitting between Paris, Toulouse, and Italy. While soaking in the culture and sights, I also explored a more minimalist approach to my wardrobe. From Parisian showrooms to Italian vineyards, my outfits were all about understated chic, and I started wondering – can you recreate these looks without breaking the bank, perhaps even within a budget like 255 Euro To Us? Let’s break down some key pieces and explore how to achieve European style without the European price tag.
Effortless Parisian street style featuring Toteme trousers and Flore Flore tank.
First up, Parisian elegance. The look above, featuring Toteme Double Pleated Trousers and a Flore Flore Hannah Tank, embodies that effortless cool. While the original pieces lean towards the higher end, the essence is in the silhouette and color palette. Think wide-leg trousers in neutral tones – you can find similar styles at stores like Mango or Zara for around $50-$70. Pair them with a simple ribbed tank top (H&M or Uniqlo offer great basics under $30). The Fane Bra Bag and LoQ Gael Sandals add a touch of designer flair, but you can substitute with a similar structured crossbody bag and minimalist sandals from brands like Steve Madden or ASOS, keeping each item under $50. A classic leather belt finishes the look – browse vintage stores or opt for an affordable option from Gap or Old Navy. Recreating this Parisian chic vibe is definitely achievable within our hypothetical 255 Euro (approximately $270 USD) budget.
Toulouse travel outfit featuring a Lauren Manoogian jacket and Bourienne Paris shirt.
Traveling through Toulouse, comfort and style were key. This outfit showcases a Lauren Manoogian Double-Knit Jacket and Bourienne Paris Crepescule Shirt. For a budget-friendly approach, a lightweight knit jacket or cardigan from Banana Republic Factory or J.Crew Factory can mimic the jacket’s relaxed feel for around $60-$80. A crisp white linen shirt is a timeless piece – consider looking at Everlane or Quince for quality options under $70. The Row Gala Cady Pants are a splurge, but wide-leg black trousers are a wardrobe staple. Again, Zara or Mango offer stylish alternatives in the $40-$60 range. A.Emery The Kinto Sandals are elegant but simple; similar minimalist leather sandals can be found at Sam Edelman or Naturalizer for under $50. This travel-ready look, focusing on versatile separates, proves that European travel style doesn’t require a luxury budget.
Exploring Gaillac and Castres in Toteme and Baserange pieces.
Moving onto more casual looks, these outfits from Gaillac and Castres demonstrate how key pieces can be mixed and matched. On the left, a Toteme Double Wool Top paired with Jeanerica Belem Shorts and Le Monde Beryl mules. A similar wool or cotton blend knit top can be found at COS or Arket for around $50-$60. Linen shorts are perfect for summer – check out Abercrombie & Fitch or Madewell for options under $40. Wedge mules add a touch of sophistication, and brands like Franco Sarto or Aerosoles offer comfortable and stylish versions for under $60. The vintage Bottega Veneta bag is a statement, but a woven or leather hobo bag from secondhand stores or brands like Cuyana can capture a similar vibe for under $70. On the right, the Baserange Dydine Linen Dress is effortlessly chic. Linen dresses are widely available in the summer; look at Old Navy or Gap for similar styles under $50. Paired again with A.Emery sandals, the focus remains on simple, quality pieces.
Marseille style with Agnes B. blouse and Realisation Par shorts.
Even a touch of color, as seen in this Marseille look with an Agnes B. blouse and Realisation Par Boxer Shorts, can be incorporated affordably. A classic white cotton blouse is incredibly versatile. Look for options at Ann Taylor or Loft for under $50. Boxer shorts offer a relaxed summer vibe; similar styles can be found at Aerie or Urban Outfitters for under $30. The Lemaire x Filt Net Shopping Bag is a trendy accessory, but a simple net bag or tote bag from Baggu or similar brands can achieve the same effect for under $20. A.Emery sandals again keep the look grounded. The Ayllon necklace adds a delicate touch, but layering simple gold necklaces you may already own, or finding affordable options at Mejuri or Anthropologie, can create a similar effect.
Airport and travel outfits featuring Lauren Manoogian and Baserange jackets.
Travel days call for comfortable yet put-together outfits. These looks, featuring Lauren Manoogian and Baserange jackets, highlight layering. A similar double-knit jacket or cardigan for travel can be sourced from Athleta or Lululemon for around $80-$100 (slightly higher, but worth it for travel comfort and re-wearability). Basic tees like the Leset Margo Tee are essential; Hanes or Fruit of the Loom offer affordable packs of basic tees. Comfortable pants like Donni Baby Rib Scallop Pants or The Row Gala Cady Pants can be swapped for leggings or knit pants from Old Navy or Target for under $30. Jamie Haller ballet slippers are chic, but comfortable flats or slip-on sneakers from Dr. Scholl’s or Vans provide similar comfort for travel.
Florence outfit with The Row top and Fane Bra Bag.
Even in Florence’s heat, a sophisticated look is achievable. The Row Patti Jersey Top and Gala Cady Pants are elevated basics. A quarter-zip long-sleeve top can be found at Old Navy or Amazon Essentials for under $30. Again, wide-leg black pants provide versatility. A.Emery Morgan Sandals keep the footwear minimal. The Fane Bra Bag is repeated, showing its versatility – a similar small crossbody bag continues to be a useful substitute. The Little Liffner bracelet adds a touch of jewelry, but simple bangles or bracelets you already own can achieve a similar effect.
Casual looks in Casaprota and Florence featuring Sold Out NYC and Baserange.
For more relaxed days, these looks from Casaprota and Florence highlight easy summer pieces. The Sold Out NYC The Everything Shirt can be replaced with a classic button-down shirt from Lands’ End or LL Bean for under $50. Baserange Kolla Shorts are simple linen shorts; again, similar styles are widely available under $40. Xero Shoes Genesis Sandals offer minimalist footwear, and affordable sandals from Teva or Birkenstock can provide similar comfort and practicality. The Oscalito camisole look is all about simple elegance; basic camisoles from Target or Walmart can be found for under $20. Martiniano Glove Shoes are unique, but simple ballet flats or loafers from Amazon or DSW can provide a similar refined casualness for under $50.
Ladispoli dinner outfit with Oscalito camisole and Linnea Lund skirt.
Even for a special dinner, European style can be achieved on a budget. The Oscalito Wool & Silk Camisole and Linnea Lind x Laura Reilly Laura Skirt create an elegant silhouette. A silk or satin camisole from Nordstrom Rack or ASOS can offer a similar luxurious feel for under $40. A-line midi skirts are versatile; look at stores like Ann Taylor or J.Crew Factory for options under $60. A.Emery sandals and Fane Bra Bag are repeated, reinforcing the idea of a capsule wardrobe. The Studio Deve Santo Sospir Bangle and Dorsey Leonora Link Bracelet add jewelry, but stacking simple gold bangles or bracelets you may already own achieves a similar effect.
Bolsena and Rome outfits featuring vintage Gucci and Schostal Roma tanks.
Finally, these looks from Bolsena and Rome show how vintage and simple pieces can create impactful outfits. A vintage Gucci tank can be replaced with a simple ribbed tank top from Target or Walmart for under $10. Michelle Del Rio Soledad Skirt is a statement piece, but a flowy midi skirt from stores like Anthropologie or Free People (sale sections!) can capture a similar bohemian vibe for under $70. Martiniano Glove Shoes are repeated, highlighting their versatility. The Lemaire net bag is also repeated. The Schostal Roma tank can again be substituted with a basic tank top. The Row Gala Cady Pants make another appearance, demonstrating their essential nature.
Conclusion:
European style, while often associated with high-end designer brands, is fundamentally about silhouette, color palette, and quality basics. By focusing on key pieces like wide-leg trousers, linen shirts, simple knit tops, and minimalist sandals, and by shopping strategically at more affordable brands and utilizing vintage or secondhand finds, achieving a chic European look is absolutely possible, perhaps even within a budget of 255 Euro to US. It’s about smart choices and understanding the essence of the style, rather than replicating specific expensive items. You can capture the spirit of European fashion without the hefty price tag.
