A crisp, clean, well-fitting cotton shirt is probably the essential building block of a great capsule wardrobe. I think it speaks of versatility and elegance. My mental snapshot is of the late Carolyn Bessette Kennedy in a white shirt, string of pearls and a silk skirt. So understated, so unpretentious, so stylish.

A classic shirt is central to what I love and admire about French style: the skill of layering. Think of a crisp collar crowning a cosy cashmere sweater with a round or (watch this space!) V-neck, or of course a sweater nonchalantly draped over the shoulders. See in our main photo the beautiful, defining lines created by this simple combination.

Here’s a few of my personal styling tips for a cotton shirt:


• Casual Look: Pair with jeans and sneakers for a laid-back outfit 
• Professional Attire: Tuck it into tailored trousers or a pencil skirt, and add a kitten heel for a polished look
• Layering: Use it as a base layer under a blazer or sweater
• Accessorising: Add a set of pearls or a scarf around the neck.