6 Fresh Ways People in Paris Are Styling Their Sweaters Right Now

If there are two things I'd like to think we can all agree on, it's the simple joy of a low-key sweater outfit and a little style inspiration from Paris. In New York at least, we're still in that great moment where the weather most days is cool enough for a cozy sweater, but not so chilly you're forced to cover it up with a jacket—truly the most precious weeks of fall, when knitwear really gets to shine.
Naturally, all our favorite French follows have been showcasing chic sweater outfits, which thankfully aren't yet covered up with oversize winter coats. From more classic looks using fall wardrobe staples (you know I'm always here for a great jeans outfit with flats) to some more directional, on-trend styling ideas, let these be your go-to references for the weeks and months ahead.
Sometimes a look just really needs a belt, and we shouldn't let a lack of belt loops stop us. I notoriously love silk or satin bottoms with a fall-ready knit. The lighter pant style (with an elasticated waist, free of zippers and things) will keep things delightfully bump-free under your sweater.
A knit skirt paired with a matching sweater falls is peak fall, particularly when styled with knee-high boots that give a completely seamless look. A set like this is guaranteed to be mixed and matched and worn on repeat for many months ahead.
A chic gray light jacket worn over a relaxed white tee and faded jeans feels so relaxed yet put-together, particularly with the addition of a structured shoulder bag. But the pièce de résistance is the burgundy sweater very deliberately draped over the shoulders—a little styling touch that treated us so well last year that it's unapologetically getting another moment this fall.
I'm almost embarrassed it took so long to get to an outfit featuring suede. These (vegan) suede pants from Zara are a super bargain and perfect for building a neutral, tonal look interrupted with slightly punchy accessories. A studded belt is a great way into this season's big boho trend if ruffled blouses aren't for you, and I'm here for the sheen of these patent Mary Janes juxtaposed with the matte texture of the trousers.
I had to show you one more example of a great neutral look punched up with on-trend accessories because it's such a vibe at the moment. I know I've said it a hundred times, but I love white denim for winter. This is such an easy denim look, but it all feels a little more deliberate, and even more so when paired with (very on-trend) leopard-print kitten heels.
This is the most effortless French fall outfit I could have possibly found. It's truly just the sum of its simple, perfect parts: straight-leg faded blue denim (classic), a slightly chunky beige knit (timeless), Tabi ballet flats (fashion forward, but not fussy), and Loewe's lush Squeeze bag (with its chain detail that makes jewelry feel optional). Top it all off with a simple pair of Ray-Bans. Chic.

Natalie Cantell is an NYC-based style director, creative consultant, and fashion editor, who regularly contributes from Paris. She was the executive director of Who What Wear and Marie Claire’s brand studio until 2023, and now freelances globally on shoots, stories, and special projects.
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