A French Woman on a Budget Walks Into COS and Zara—40 Items She's Walking Away With
Below, discover the cool Parisian-inspired finds, from belted jackets to supple leather loafers.
French women possess an innate je ne sais quoi—an effortless charm that permeates their demeanor and style. That understated elegance is why we, editors at Who What Wear, spend a lot of time analyzing their fashion choices.
The primary appeal of well-dressed French women lies in their commitment to simplicity. Rather than chasing trends, they rely on foundational wardrobe basics. These are pieces that are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, featuring refined cuts, sharp tailoring, and high-quality fabrics.
When it comes to brands, French labels such as Sézane, Loulou de Saison, Celine, and Dior remain staple choices. However, Parisian tastemakers also return to names like Zara and COS. This season, it's especially apparent because these two labels offer elevated wardrobe essentials that look designer without the price tag and are versatile enough to pair with pieces already in one's wardrobe.
To showcase this, we looked through the latest fall arrivals at Zara and COS and put together an edit of 40 finds we believe Parisians would buy for themselves, from wool jackets and belted knits to tailored trousers, leather loafers, and closed-toe wedges. Keep scrolling to shop the French girl–coded items.
Zara Finds
Between button-downs and sweaters, buttercream is dominating basics this fall.
We love the styling here, and the paisley scarf feels very Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen coded.
The relaxed silhouette gives off an effortlessly chic vibe.
Parisian It girls love their leather loafers.
It's giving Chanel.
If you've been hesitant to add low-rise jeans to your rotation, this is your sign. Style them with a jacket and heels for a polished look.
No one will believe you got these at Zara.
Whether you're attending a wedding or a formal gala, this dress is a great option.
We've never added anything so quickly to our cart.
Crewneck knits are chic, but every fashion insider is wearing a belted sweater right now.
Classic and polished.
This everyday bag can be paired with jeans and loafers or a pencil skirt and kitten heels.
You can't walk around Paris in the fall without spotting one fashion person wearing a leather blazer. This one feels especially cool and modern.
Wow.
Who doesn't love a concealed wedge?
This also comes in a lighter brown.
Grab this before it sells out again.
Frayed-hem jeans are trending.
Look at those sleeves.
Stay warm and stylish this winter with a knit skirt.
All your friends will think you're wearing boots from Isabel Marant.
COS Finds
In case you missed it, purple—in all its shades—is the color of the season.
French women know that straight-leg jeans are the perfect foundation for any outfit.
If you're bored of traditional ballet flats, these are for you.
A polished coat for the chilly temperatures ahead.
Every French woman's capsule wardrobe includes at least one striped button-down shirt.
Another timeless pair of black trousers.
French women love heels, but they do wear sneakers too. This rich suede pair feels very Parisian.
This looks similar to a Victoria Beckham dress.
While stock lasts, snap this designer-passing clutch up.
No notes.
Simple satin pants will work hard all year round.
COS is killing it in the handbag department.
Whoever told you that oversize blazers are "out" this season is wrong.
If you want to experiment with color, follow the lead of chic French women and add a red sweater or flats to your wardrobe.
This scarf will elevate even the simplest of outfits.
Dark-wash jeans have not lost their appeal.
Take this bag to the office or the airport—or both.
Sale alert!
We love the combination of fringe and embroidery.
