|

The French Tuck

For countless years, France has been known for its chic fashion and elegant style. The French have been ahead of the rest of us when it comes to setting trends in the design world. And it comes as no surprise that various fashion techniques originated in the fashion capital. But there is competition (Milan for one, New York too) inspiration comes from so many places, including…TV

Queer Eye Cast

A cinching technique from the second season of Netflix’s Queer Eye caught the eye of the fashion world, and naturally, has blown up on the internet. The viral #FrenchTuck took over the latest Instagram trend and has been riding the wave ever since. But what exactly is the French Tuck? Was it invented by the Queer Eye’s resident styling guru Tan France?

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). Opinions are always my own and I’ll never promote something I don’t use or believe in. Also as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Let’s find out! On y va !

What is the French Tuck?

The French tuck is a fashion technique, more specifically a shirt cinching technique, wherein you tuck the front of your shirt in your pants (or skirt) and leave the rest of it to flutter carelessly into the wind.

The orchestrated yet haphazard way of tucking your shirt gives your outfit a fun, spontaneous look, evoking a certain air of joie de vivre.

young fashionable people in French Tuck
Photo credit: Depositphotos

And it is universal! Both men and women can recreate this style!

The flattering manner of tucking one's shirt was seen throughout Queer Eye’s first season but only in the second one did it get a name. The signature style statement of Tan France blew up the internet and became a raging trend.

According to Tan France, the style visually balances the proportions of the upper and the lower body, and also makes your legs look leaner.

Did Tan France really invent the French Tuck?

This question has been making endless rounds online, and the answer is an unsurprising no. Tan France did not invent the French Tuck, and he certainly did not name it after himself. People in France have been implementing this style for years. Tan France, however, was the one who popularized it and pulled it into the spotlight.

According to Tan, he saw the tuck some 20 years ago in a runway show and has been using it ever since. He used the styling trick extensively in the second season of Queer Eye. When he needed a name for it, he came up with the ‘French Tuck’ because it felt cute.

Tan France with French tuck and man in French tuck

On my last trip to France, whether I was in Paris or outside the City of Light, mannequins were wearing a French tuck partout (everywhere!)…

How to master the French Tuck?

The French have no doubt known this styling trick for years, but if you’re new to the trend, here’s how you can implement it in your outfit.

The tuck works best when you’re wearing loose clothing as it tends to leave some things to the imagination. Like any classic French outfit, begin with an oversized shirt and some cutoff jeans.

women in design office
Photo credit: Depositphotos

Tuck the front or even a part of the front of your shirt into your jeans, and let some buttons pop to show off that décolletage (if you have it!).

Add in some basic makeup, a pair of black boots, and a cute tote bag to complete the look. For a more relaxed and cool look, go for an oversized blouse paired with a midi skirt.

Designers in office French Tuck
Photo credit: Depositphotos

With an oversized top, remember to keep the bottom a little structured to keep the proportions from being all over the place. It looks great with all kinds of clothes, be it a sweatshirt or a dressy blouse, and it can be worn by both men and women.

The cinch is a perfect cross between casual and sartorial and can solve all your problems in life.

Et voilà that's the French Tuck. Have you tried it? Have any tips? Do tell!

Like it? PIN it!

young fashionable people in French TuckFrench man with French Tuckwoman in office with French Tuck

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

13 Comments

  1. This is the first time I’ve heard of this! That is so cool! Thanks for sharing this with us

  2. I only love a front french tuck, not so much the side tuck. I honestly can’t wear shirts normal anymore. I always do a little tuck! It’s way more flattering.

  3. This is really interesting. I actually think this is really nice. I didn’t really know it had a name for it.

  4. Now I know the name of the style. I have always used that style from my grade school days until now!

  5. Does anyone else think this look is about as sensible as leaving your athletic shoes unlaced or sagging you pants? Should the name be called “half dressed?”