Our Top 11 French Fashion Icons for Bastille Day: Marion Cottilard, Emmanuelle Alt, Vanessa Paradis & More!

With their laid-back polish and effortless panache, it's no wonder why the world is mystified by the fashion habits of French women past and present. Though we're definitely inspired by classic Parisiennes like Brigitte Bardot and Jane Birkin, there are a crop of contemporary style setters who provide us with the utmost in sophisticated French dressing. In honour of Bastille Day, we're highlighting 11 of our favourite French fashion icons. Click through to see examples of their enviable style, plus find out why we love them so much. Photos courtesy of Vogue Italia, Marie Claire, Vogue Paris, and Tatler