My French Friend Sent Me Her Autumn Shopping List—15 Chic Buys That Made the Cut
A Parisian-approved edit of polished, expensive-looking staples from Zara, H&M, Reformation and Sézane.
If there's ever a time I need inspiration from my French, Paris-based best friend, it's the start of a new season. After months of relying upon my summer outfit formulas, the weather has shifted, and now it's time for a little autumn inspiration. Luckily, having someone with impeccable French style on speed dial has its advantages, and within minutes, I had my own curated list of the chicest high-street pieces worth knowing about right now.
Unsurprisingly, her edit was filled with the kind of polished, expensive-looking staples French women do so well: v-neck jumpers, straight-leg jeans, ruched loafers and pretty blouses, all elevated by the smallest details—subtle ruching, interesting necklines and glossy gold buttons that make even the simplest outfit feel intentional. If you showed me the list without the brand names, I’d easily assume it was an overly ambitious luxury wish list.
Instead, it’s made up of pieces from some of our most reliable shopping destinations, from H&M and Zara to Reformation and Sézane. The takeaway? Dressing well in 2026 isn’t about spending more; it’s about choosing better. Keep scrolling to shop my French best friend’s chic January wish list.
Shop My French Friend's Autumn 2026 Shopping List
Zara's jacket selection is always exquisite, and this expensive-looking wool jacket is proof.
A v-neck jumper layered over a white tee and tailored trousers will never not be chic.
The Margaux's chic successor, the Marlo is the ultimate quiet luxury handbag.
A pair of sleek black sunglasses are the perfect autumn accessory, and I have my eyes on Jimmy Fairly's Emmy pair—no pun intended.
Mark my words: this v-neck cashmere jumper will be out of stock before October.
The perfect satin trousers.
Chic Londoners everywhere swear by Rise & Fall's elegant suede trench coat come autumn.
You'll get so much wear out of this relaxed wool jumper.
A clean, classic shoulder bag with a subtle modern edge.
A statement jacket to say the least.
Say hello to the perfect pair of trousers.
Straight-leg jeans are a key part of French dressing, and Agolde's 90s jeans are a great place to start.
Funnel-neck trench coats add a contemporary edge to a classic piece.
The ultimate carry-all tote that's as practical as it is chic.
The best-selling Stockholm, now available in sumptuous suede.
I own this and can confirm, it looks so much more expensive that it is.
This waxed jacket simply screams countryside chic.
Bottega's latest It-bag is already making waves.
If you're looking to move beyond classic straight-leg denim, this barrel silhouette is a particularly chic alternative.
For the ultimate autumn investment, look to Saint Laurent's sleek ruched loafers.
The graphic argyle pattern gives this classic crew-neck knit a cool, heritage feel.
Say hello to the perfect tailored trouser.
M&S cashmere is elite, and this jumper is proof.
Khaki trousers are my favourite 2026 trend.
