British actress Lily James is no stranger to the spotlight when it comes to her fashion choices. Whether she’s gracing red carpets or sitting front row at fashion week, the Pam & Tommy and Cinderella star consistently turns heads with her sophisticated, timeless style. But in a recent revelation, Lily finally shared the deeper inspiration behind her enviable fashion sense—and it’s as personal as it gets.
The Secret Is in Her Roots
At the Dior Autumn/Winter 2025 show during Paris Fashion Week, Lily James stunned in a chic black off-shoulder top paired with wide-leg tailored trousers, Dior slingbacks, and a classic Lady Dior bag. Her look was the definition of French elegance, and as it turns out, there’s a touching reason behind it.
Just a few weeks after the show, Lily took to Instagram to reveal the source of her fashion inspiration: her French grandmother. Posting vintage black-and-white photos of her maternal grandmother, Marinette Mantle, she captioned the post, “Quand ta grand-mère est française”—which translates to “When your grandmother is French.”
The sentiment struck a chord with fans, offering a rare glimpse into the personal history that helps shape Lily’s polished, effortless style.
A Story of Strength and Style
Marinette Mantle was born just outside Paris and lived through the hardships of World War II. At just 11 years old, she fled her village during the war and later married Lily’s grandfather, who served as a minister in the Royal Air Force. Despite the challenges she faced, Marinette carried herself with grace and elegance—something Lily has always admired.
“She had that natural Parisian charm and style, even in the simplest clothes,” Lily said in a previous interview. “It’s something that always stayed with me.”
Lily has often spoken of her deep bond with her grandmother. The two were even spotted together at Wimbledon in 2016, beaming as they enjoyed the match—another subtle nod to the influence Marinette had on Lily’s life.
Style Meets Storytelling
Lily James’ style is more than just fashion—it’s a form of storytelling. From classic silhouettes to refined color palettes, her looks often nod to a blend of old-world charm and contemporary grace. Much of that comes from her collaboration with longtime stylist Rebecca Corbin Murray, who helps Lily blend modern trends with vintage elegance.
Together, the duo has created some of Lily’s most iconic looks, like her floaty gowns at the Met Gala, structured suits at press events, and minimalist dresses that still manage to feel regal. Corbin Murray’s approach, rooted in highlighting Lily’s natural elegance, perfectly aligns with the actress’s family-inspired aesthetic.
“She’s not just wearing clothes—she’s wearing her story,” Corbin Murray has said of Lily.
Fans and Fashionistas Take Note
Lily’s fashion revelation has been met with admiration from fans and fashion insiders alike. Many praised her for honoring her grandmother’s legacy through style, and others shared their own stories of how family has influenced their wardrobes.
Fashion writer and editor Clara Dupont noted, “In an age where trends move fast, Lily James reminds us that true style is timeless—and often deeply personal. Her French grandmother’s influence is not only beautiful but incredibly grounding.”
Why It Matters
In a world obsessed with fast fashion and fleeting trends, Lily James’s fashion ethos feels refreshing. Her ability to marry personal heritage with high fashion reminds us that clothing can be more than just aesthetics—it can be an expression of identity, history, and love.
At a time when authenticity is more valued than ever, Lily’s story resonates beyond the fashion industry. It’s a reminder that what we wear can reflect who we are and where we come from.
Final Thoughts
Lily James’ revelation about her grandmother’s influence adds a layer of depth to her already admired fashion persona. It shows that elegance can be inherited not just through genetics but through memories, culture, and love. By honoring her French roots with every outfit, Lily continues to inspire fans around the world—not just to dress well, but to dress meaningfully.