Discover The Parisian Glam: 7 French Makeup Brands To Covet

Embrace the Parisian Allure with French Makeup Classics

Some of my fondest experiences are deeply rooted in the heart of France, a place where cobblestone streets and timeless beauty seamlessly meet. While I’ve wandered through the sun-drenched lanes of Cannes and sampled life-altering profiteroles in Paris, it’s the allure of French makeup that truly calls to me. The birthplace of iconic brands like Chanel and Dior, France sets the bar high in the beauty world, mixing elegance with effortless chic – just like its fashion.

The French philosophy of makeup is all about enhancing rather than masking. As French celebrity makeup artist Patrick de Fontbrune beautifully puts it, "The French approach to makeup is always looking like you didn't try too hard. It is never about covering up and changing features, but simply complementing and enhancing what is already there." This ethos is woven through the fabrics of every notable French brand.

Dive into the Essentials: Top French Makeup Brands

Let’s take a stylish stroll through the crème de la crème of French makeup brands that you should definitely have on your radar.

First up, Dior. Stepping into the makeup scene in the 1950s, Dior has remained a staple in enhancing natural beauty with its industry favorites like the Backstage Foundation and Diorshow Mascara. If you travel a lot, the Forever Skin Perfect Stick Foundation is your best friend.

Then, there's Violette_FR. Inspired by makeup influencer-turned-entrepreneur Violette, this brand reflects the quintessential French girl aesthetic. Products like the Yeux Paint and Lip Nectar Hydrating Lip Stain encapsulate that effortlessly bold look.

Indie Appeal and Timeless Classics

Le Rouge Français, founded by Élodie Carpentier, offers lip products that are a celebrity favorite for their botanical pigments and refillable designs, while Chanel remains the timeless benchmark with classics that define French beauty. Les Beiges, Baume Essentiel, and those iconic red lipsticks are just a few examples.

Lancôme never fails to impress with its marriage of innovation and heritage. With iconic products like Lash Idôle mascara, it continues to evolve without losing its core Parisian flair.

Let’s not forget Sisley Paris, where botanical ingredients meet luxury. With products like Phyto-Cernes Éclat, the brand treats your skin with grace while delivering beautiful results.

Finally, Guerlain – a brand that treats makeup as wearable art, offers treasures like Rouge G lipsticks and their legendary Terracotta bronzers.

Why Trust Marie Claire

Marie Claire has been at the forefront of beauty and fashion for over 30 years, offering trusted recommendations from experts and editors alike. So, rest assured, when you explore these French brands, you're diving into a world curated with care and expertise.

Meet the Experts

French-born makeup maestros like Mélanie Inglessis and Patrick de Fontbrune share their insights from Los Angeles, bringing that distinct Parisian influence to the Hollywood scene.