I’m a fashion editor and these are the 9 style trends everyone in Paris is wearing this winter
I’ll be the first to admit it: When the temperature drops, my fashion game tends to follow as well. The urge to throw on anything warm can quickly tip the scales from cozy to downright bulky. That’s exactly why that, when winter style fatigue sets in, I turn to the French. Parisian women have a certain je ne sais quoi when it comes to staying stylish, even in the cold. While we might feel buried under puffer coats, they somehow make winter dressing look oh-so chic, even when bundled up.
While I’d love to be people-watching from a sidewalk café with a glass of wine in hand (and maybe a crêpe or two), this winter I’ll have to settle for Instagram as my source of inspiration. And after a deep scroll, a pattern emerged: The most stylish French outfits all revolve around a handful of timeless staples. The best part? These essentials are easy to work into your own rest-of-winter wardrobe, no Left Bank address required. Ahead are my favorite French fashion girls flaunting some of the season’s best styles — because if we can’t be in Paris, we can at least dress like we are.
Classic straight-leg jeans
It doesn’t get much more classic than a pair of well-made straight-leg jeans. They’re a timeless staple that flatters almost every body type, and with so many washes available, you can rock a different shade every day of the week. It’s no wonder that this cut is the go-to denim style in Paris. Opt for a high-waisted option to elongate your figure or a cropped style to show off your killer shoe collection.
Shop the style
Winter whites
You know the rule about not wearing white after Labor Day? Parisian women never got the memo — and we’re all better for it. Winter white is a go-to in their style playbook, and it instantly looks polished, fresh and impossibly stylish. Still unsure about rocking stark white in the colder months? Ease in with ecru or soft off-white. You’ll get the same vibe without tipping into summer territory.
Shop the style
Comfortable loafers
While every season brings a slew of new shoe trends, a classic loafer is one style that always remains in heavy rotation in French women’s wardrobes. Not only do they combine chicness and comfort, but they are so easy to dress up and down. Add some flair with a cute pair of socks and a flouncy dress or skirt. If you’re leaning toward a more relaxed vibe, pair them with your favorite jeans for a timeless, put-together look.
Shop the style
Elevated cardigans
Parisian women prove time and again that the classic cardigan is the ultimate style chameleon. If you still see it as a prim, librarian’s layer, it’s time to rethink. This season’s cardis are cooler than ever — featuring statement buttons, modern cuts, subtle cutouts and fashion-forward silhouettes. Polished yet playful, a great cardigan is basically a sartorial passport to French-girl style. Wear it buttoned-up, layered or solo — the only rule is to have fun with it!
Shop the style
Knit Polo sweaters
Sure, a beloved sweater is always a winter standby, but collared polo knits will lift your look up a notch. Polished instead of bundled, they strike that sweet spot between cozy and refined. And that subtle peek of clavicle? Très chic, n’est-ce pas? Wear one with tailored trousers, laid-back denim or a sleek midi skirt for an outfit that feels intentional yet unfussy.
Shop the style
Long winter coats
While we Americans often bundle up in puffy jackets and ski coats during winter, our friends in Paris go for a different vibe. They love to layer up in warm wool coats that not only keep them cozy but also keep their lines clean and pulled together. It’s amazing how a beautiful coat can instantly elevate your whole outfit — pair one with an oversized scarf for an easy look. No one will ever guess that you’re rocking comfy sweats underneath that stylish floor-length coat!
Shop the style
Slouchy hobo bags
When it comes to winter accessories, bigger is better. Oversized hobo bags are the must-have solution for carrying everything — from scarves and gloves to that extra layer you’ll be glad you brought. With soft shapes and generous interiors, they strike the perfect balance between style and function — think Mary Poppins’ carry-all, but street-style-ready.
Shop the style
Triangle scarves
Triangle scarves — cut more like a bandana than a traditional rectangular wrap — are quietly taking over winter style, and Parisian women are leading the charge. We’re following their lead, particularly because of how versatile they are. You can wear them wrapped around your neck, draped around your shoulders like a shawl or tied over your head. Proof that even the smallest accessory can make a big impact.
Shop the style
Dressy turtlenecks
Much like a classic LBD or the perfect pair of jeans, the turtleneck is a winter wardrobe nonnegotiable. This season, French women are giving the staple an elevated twist and swapping chunky knits for silky or chiffon styles that feel refined and modern. The result? A touch of unexpected elegance that layers beautifully under blazers, coats and cardigans. Ooh là là!
Shop the style
link
