I Work in NYC But Dress Like a Parisian—6 Anti-Trend Items I Rely On to Look Chic
Not Mary Janes and not a trench coat.
It's fall in NYC, but for some reason, I can't stop dressing like I'm in Paris. French style has taken over my feed, from Parisian color trends to the flat-shoe trends French women are wearing. I'll admit I've never received more compliments. So I decided to look inward to analyze what makes my style feel so European. And I found it's in the basics.
The anti-trend pieces French women rely on year after year—that's the key. I don't want to give too many spoilers, because ahead you'll find the six anti-trend Parisian items I'm talking about, but think timeless, classic items like a crewneck cardigan or leather skirt. These pieces are workhorses, meaning styling them comes easy. And so do the compliments. Scroll on to see which French-woman essentials made my list.
6 Anti-Trend Parisian Items for Fall 2026
1. Suede Blazer
This humble jacket carries the weight of most chic Parisian wardrobes. It's simple, low-effort, and sharp.
2. Leather Column Skirt
If there's one thing to take away from this list, it's this: a leather column skirt. Particularly, ALC's Marta Skirt. Even our cofounder Hillary Kerr swears by it.
3. Crewneck Cardigan
During my first visit to Paris, I noticed French women love a crewneck cardigan. And now so do I.
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4. Pop of Red
I'd be hard-pressed to find a Parisian who doesn't believe in a pop of red. Whether it's in the form of a red lip or knit, this addition of color is always welcome.
5. Plaque Belt
Arguably the "trendiest" on the list, this statement belt was popular long before the urban cowgirls of Paris started styling it. It adds a chic, Western flair to just about any outfit.
6. Straight-Leg Jeans
It will be years before straight-leg jeans to go out of style (if they ever do). The relaxed fit makes them wildly easy to style. Go for a shawl or an oversize knit, and thank me later.
