It’s pretty hard to beat a tee and denim duo. That might be why I can’t resist a fun, fresh interpretation of each. FYI, I’m never in favor of statement tees that use “bad” language or scream a faux sense of cool. But this sweet little tee made me smile. And think, mais oui, I must add you to my wardrobe.

When you break it down, this look is made up of just 4 key pieces. You can probably shop your closet and create your very own version, but in case you’re in the mood for a little something new I’ve linked everything below. All together, this look is 50% “high” and 50% “low” — which is pretty much my signature outfit formula.

I will never say no to a striped tee and apparently chic French women won’t either. If it comes with a “bon mot,” all the better. For me this navy, white and sunny yellow combo says it all.

If you’ve been following me for a while, you know I’ve been going Marie Kondo on my wardrobe all year long. Which has included deleting jeans that are no longer right — for whatever reason. So when I add a new pair, it’s because they’re adding some solid style to my collection. These days, I’m loving the easy look and feel of a paper bag waist. And for steamy summer days, lightweight chambray is a welcome alternative to heavier denim. To dress these paper bag pants up, I’d pair them with a sleek black tank and strappy black sandals.

While my tee and pants were total steals, my accessories tip the scale as “investment” splurges. I’ve had this striped shopper for a few years now, and you’ve seen it here, here and here (and here and here, too!). It’s an iconic designer piece that is timeless and trendy all at once. And if I use the fashionista’s “cost per wear” ratio, every time I tote it it costs less than a Starbuck’s latte and has zero calories! This past week, I put my shopper to use every day. My sandals were an outlet score. A bit “cher,” but so classic and so worth it. They will be trotted out a lot in the months ahead.

All of which is to say that while we all may dream of dressing in head-to-toe designer duds (and some Bloggers and Instas actually do), most of our budgets won’t support that. I know mine doesn’t! I think long and hard about those “extra extra” purchases, so when I take the plunge I won’t regret it.

When I styled this look, I knew we had to shoot it at one of my favorite JC spots. Because when you step into Cafe Madelaine, it’s all about those “French feels” — from the menu to the decor to the hospitality. If you can’t actually be in Paris, why not be in a Paris state of mind?

Wishing you all a Bon Weekend!

Tee: (H&M, sold out) But similar here, here and here.

Pants: (H&M, sold out) But super cute well-priced alternatives here, here (with rope belt, too) and here (all on sale!).

Bag: (Balenciaga) Resale option here, more affordable here (so fun!).

Sandals: (Burberry, sold out) Love the sale-priced designer chic and of these, these and these.

Photos by MP Allegaert & Kristin Moore-Gantz.