I’m approaching the seventh-month mark of living in Paris (dare I say it, am I Parisian?) and between brushing up on my French and embodying a Flâneur, I’ve been paying attention to the fashion forecasts and the elements that truly constitute French fashion. Currently, we’re in the thick of winter. The chill has firmly settled and while this city has my heart regardless, the cold is something I’m less fond of and dressing for it can present a challenge.
I like my attire to feel inspired regardless of the seasons and no one strikes the balance of looking uniform in easy-to-pull steps quite like French women. From September onwards, French women's style becomes attuned to the cold, though it still boasts the same effortless appeal. I’ve bore witness to the seasons change and how French women adapt their clothing choices to the weather. As we’re well aware, French women's style has become a much coveted aesthetic and one of the most aspirational aspects is the laid-back temperament of it. Winter calls for a pared-back essence that all women emulate with proficiency and through my observations I’ve deduced just how simple the styling elements are – from co-ords to "one fell swoop” outfits like a maxi dress. The aforementioned pieces become the winter equivalent of tea and slip dresses.
Many of this year's trends are uniform pieces that are preexisting in French women’s arsenals. Straight-leg jeans, column skirting and cropped knitwear is my most observed style. French fashion is the cornerstone of my style and I love gleaning tips from the French women I know both in real life and online. While they all have their way of interpreting French style, they all have one thing in common: simplicity. You may be surprised to find you own many of these pieces, so keep reading for inspiration on how to put the simplest of pieces together, the French way.
1. Scarf Coat + Maxi Dress + Boots
Style Notes: The scarf coat has taken the world by storm and I've seen many French women inherit the style. It takes very little styling. Simply pair it with an elongated dress, weather-appropriate shoes and a vintage-style bag. In just a few steps, your winter outfit is sorted.
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This coat looks so premium. I'm surprised it hasn't sold out!
Mark my words, you're guaranteed so much wear out a piece like this.
The Nicole bag has been on my wish list for a year and every time I see it, I admire the elements more. From the sculptural clasp to the squared-off shaping, it's reminiscent of the bags French women wear day-to-day.
Sock boots feel a tad more formal than Chelsea styles.
2. Almost Matching Knitted Co-ord + Loafers
Style Notes: The thing about French women is they like to match, but not too much, so don't be afraid to mix and match co-ords from different labels.
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Every element of Aeron's design is intentional. Take this cardigan, the scooped neckline highlights the decolletage.
I always look for pieces comprising natural fabrications on the high street and this skirt is fashioned from 100% wool!
This statement ear candy will match the gold button adornments on the cardigan.
Swap summer's ballerina for something a tad more hardwearing.
3. Bodysuit + Straight Leg Jeans + Boots
Style Notes: Andi's outfit is a simple ensemble you're probably well accustomed to seeing in France. The addition of burgundy boots elevates this look to new heights.
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A marrying of sustainable elements and timelessness.
As with the entire arsenal Toteme jeans are clean and crisp.
It's chilly in Paris right now so I'm tying each look together with woollen outerwear.
This colourway and the croc-effect fabrication are much loved across Paris. Refresh your boots arsenal with a warm colour.
4. Brown Leather Jacket + Longline Cardigan + Polo Neck Maxi
Style Notes: Granted, it's a popular colourway this season but French women have been flirting with warm tonal looks for quite some time. During the winter, you'll find them clad in burgundy and woody browns. In this look, Franny layers an oatmeal cardigan with black and brow hues.
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Pared back elegance.
COS' outwear is a cut above the rest and this suave leather coat is a piece on the high street worth celebrating.
Cashmere layers will keep you toasty when the temperatures drop. Head to MyCashmere, who are experts at precious made-to-last knitwear.
The Row had garnered fans with the Margaux and now it's sold out I've been scouting bags of a similar ilk. Anya Hindmarch's Wilson bag is just as beautiful in it's own right. Don't you think?
The juxtaposition of resin with polished gold is always a match to behold.
The tigers eye stone is so enchanting.
Western-style boots are taking over.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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