There's a common misconception that French women's wardrobes are devoid of colour, which is understandable (they are known for simplicity, after all) but after years of deconstructing French style (AKA, scouring bookshelves for anything with Parisian Fashion on the bind and moving to Paris like a dedicated Francophile), I've spotted many French girl colour trends that debunk that myth.
Neutral basics are indeed the cornerstone of a French capsule wardrobe, but bolder colours play a significant role in the way French women dress too, and looks are made more interesting with considered injections of colour, through statement pieces (leather coats and knitwear, for example) or accents, including handbags and scarves.
In 2025, we witnessed a wave of spirited colours dominate the streets of Paris, from butter yellow and ochre to khaki and according to the fashion forecast, we're set to see the continued popularity of many of these colours mixed in with classic contenders throughout 2026. We may be in the depths of the cold snap, but rest assured, these colours will uplift your wardrobe from here on out. Continue reading to see and shop the French girl colour trends that will take over 2026—from striking red to milky hues veering on yellow.
7 French-Girl Colour Trends to Note for 2026:
1. Almost-Yellow Cream
Style Notes: Bright, fresh and universal, cream is far less intimidating than white, which can often feel like a stark contrast. It's also considerably easier to wear and contemporary feeling. Creamy hues add depth to winter outfits—be it ecru jeans or tops awash with vanilla-like shades worn alongside denim. We all know the significance of the LBD in a French woman's wardrobe and cream is equally prevalent, especially during the winter. This season, we're seeing a plethora of cream outerwear, which makes a welcome change to deep tones that can sometimes feel sombre.
Shop the Trend:
I've had my eye on this darling piece from this year's M&S X 16 Arlington collaboration, and quite frankly, I'm surprised it's still available. There are myriad ways to style the scarf detailing, making it a versatile piece to add to my clothing collection.
The supple shearling and leather trim are two contrasting features that add dimension and interest to this bucket bag design. It's further offset with the toggle, which is equally as practical as it is darling.
It's always a treat when I come across stunning and considered pieces on the high street and Mango will never steer you wrong when it comes to elevated outerwear. I would be happy to be cocooned in this shearling coat for the foreseeable future.
We should never underestimate the power of elevated basics in our wardrobe. This lace trim skirt is perfect example of how to take a capsule item (the slip skirt) and make it party appropriate. Style this skirt with anything from your "going out top" to slouched knitwear.
2. Triple Chocolate Brown
Style Notes: There's an undeniable presence of cocoa brown since its dominance on 2023's runways and it's cemented its place in the wardrobes of French women. Given its proximity to black, it may not seem ground-breaking, but this deep autumnal hue has revolutionised fashion neutrals and introduced depth and richness into many people's clothing arsenal. In 2026, brown is set to continue dominating colour trends and from spring 2026, coffee and camel hues will reappear, once more.
Shop the Trend:
This female-founded Parisian brand has amassed a huge fan base for its full leather pieces and its shearling coats are equally impressive. When you invest in a Nour Hammour piece, you do so for life.
Suede handbags will continue to prove popular into 2026 and we're keeping note of DeMellier's latest drop.
The simple scoop detailing elevates this long-sleeve silhoutte to something more evening appropriate.
We're in the era of flat streamlined boots. Comfort and style? What more can you ask for?
3. Deep Heritage Grey
Style Notes: You might not associate grey with French style but it has a recurring presence in a French woman's wardrobe. Grey knitwear, capes and metallic dresses (worn during party season) are a handful of go-tos for French women. This season, we're seeing an abundance of grey outerwear, tailored trousers and jumpers. I've also piqued how French women wear a very particular shade of grey that is—deeper and woven, as opposed to grey marl, which can feel casual.
Shop the Trend:
RÓHE's leather trimmed cardigan has been doing the rounds on social media. Expect to see the continued styling of this versatile piece with everything from silk trousers to barrel-leg jeans.
& Other Stories presents us with one of the best-tailored trousers I've seen on the high street this winter, with 95% wool. This grey tone is particularly premium-passing.
This COS coat is equally as timeless as the RÓHE number above and more purse-friendly!
Serena Bute is best known for high-quality tailored trousers. This season, the brand introduces playful minis and draped maxi skirts to its arsenal.
4. Refined Midnight Black
Style Notes: From LBDs to wool outerwear (read: elegant scarf coats), black is an understated shade worn by French women daily. Although it's not technically a colour, it's earned its rightful place on the colour chart, given the frequency that it's worn. From monochrome ensembles to intentional contrasts, it's a hue you can always rely on when you're at a loss for what to wear.
Shop the Trend:
I've been anticipating the release of Calvin Klein's Cora coat since I witnessed it on the runway.
A long-line fluid silhoutte featuring drop skirting and delicate pleats that offer movement.
May I recommend Rail's silken pants if you're petite? I can guarantee you'll be wearing these trousers on repeat this winter.
There's something inherently French about pointed-toe low heels, especially with a bold adornment like this Rupert Sanderson design.
5. Black Cherry Burgundy
Style Notes: Burgundy defined autumnal style before it was spearheaded on 2024 catwalks and it's become a colour reference for French women, especially when paired with neutral tones. French women are taking note from the likes of Ferragamo and Victoria Beckham—be it with accentual accessories, or on clothing. I'm yet to find a skin tone that doesn't suit this deep cherry, gothic and sensual burgundy. If you're new to this statement colour, consider experimenting with accessories first.
Shop the Trend:
Polène's coveted Numero Neuf now comes awash with an A/W update— a sumptuous black cherry. If you're inspired by French style, I couldn't recommend this considered leather label enough.
Look to Ninety Percent for all of your basic needs, albeit with a twist.
Look no further for your NYE party look. The skirt offers whimsicality with a gothic edge.
This skinny scarf will elevate your simple winter uniform.
6. Envious of this Green
Style Notes: Allow me to introduce you to a spring preview—the return of green. It's timely, as the blossom will bring a wave of organic nature-mimicking colourways. Between khaki and olive tones, green is a recurring colour trend loved by French women. Loewe and Prada are a couple of designers backing a particular chartreuse hue and if last year was anything to go by, French women will be lapping it up.
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This shade is made even better on a silky fabrication.
An eye-catching evening gown.
This neck ruching and languid sleeves will loan some drama to your outfit.
A sensational hue and design.
7. Pack a Punch Red
Style Notes: It's no surprise that red (synonymous with empowerment and passion) is much loved in France. For now, wear long-sleeved red tops, slouched knitwear and languid dresses in this spirited colourway. If you're hesitant about wearing such a bold shade, opt for a muted (albeit slightly) brick red or orangey terracotta.
Shop the Trend:
It's worth taking note of this styling in its entirety—from the belted turtleneck to the balloon trousers.
I can see fellow columist Monkih wearing this slouched t-shirt dress.
This deep red is incredibly flattering due to the blue undertone.
Defined by contemporary style and clean silhouettes, The Anteros is an emerging brand to note for 2026. This super-fine ensemble is awash with a unique brick red that will be relevant throughout the seasons.