Yes, slim-fitting jeans can absolutely look chic—it's just about knowing how to style them. For one, I'd always err on the side of slim-fitting rather than skinny, for a more modern feel. Secondly, you must get your shoe pairing right, as not every shoe trend works so well with a slimmer cut of jeans. Luckily, one of the chicest French dressers has just reminded me of an elegant slim-fit jeans and shoe combination that never misses.

Spotted stepping out on New York's Upper East Side, French actor Léa Seydoux styled her super-slim jeans with a sleek pair of pointed-toe heels. Adding a high-neck, single-breasted jacket into the mix, she delivered one of the chicest takes on slim-fit denim styling I've come across this year.

Opting for a high-waisted cut and a streamlined leg, then finishing with a tall, pointed-toe heel, Léa's combination created a lengthening effect that added elegance to her denim. Unfussy but considered, as the best French dressers always are, it's an easy outfit formula to carry through the season's many smart-casual occasions.

I'll be taking inspiration from Léa and pairing my own slim-fitting jeans and heels with a single-breasted jacket, although I can see this combination looking just as chic with a longer-line coat, or taking on a more glamorous feel with a fur-trimmed style.

Easy, elegant and endlessly wearable, read on to shop the slim-fitting jeans I recommend below.

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I spend a large portion of my professional life dissecting French fashion. There's a certain effortlessness to the way French women dress that's difficult to put into words, but after years as a Shopping Editor, I like to think I've cracked the formula. And after one look at Zara's new-in section, I knew I'd found a whole host of pieces that wouldn't look out of place in a chic Parisian wardrobe.

From pintuck-detail poplin shirts and straight-leg denim to V-neck wool jumpers, sleek leather bags and gathered loafers, Zara's latest collection is a masterclass in expensive-looking French style. The outerwear is particularly strong, too, with elegant wool coats and timeless jackets that could easily pass for designer.

Of course, you don't need to live in Paris—or have a designer budget—to master the look. Below, I've handpicked the chicest pieces from Zara's new-in section that capture that elusive French-girl aesthetic. Keep scrolling to shop my edit.

Zara French Winter Edit 2026

If there’s one thing I blindly trust French women for, it’s fashion recs. As a Shopping Editor, it’s quite rare that I ask for advice on what to buy; the one exception is my incredibly chic French best friend.

Effortlessly elegant and particularly skilled at cherry-picking high-street pieces that look far more expensive than they are, she’s become something of a muse when it comes to building a polished wardrobe. Her approach is simple: invest in great basics, stick to timeless silhouettes and add just enough personality to stop everything feeling too classic.

So, naturally, when I started thinking about the pieces worth adding to my wardrobe this winter, I asked what was currently on her wish list. Her edit didn’t disappoint. Think dark indigo denim, sumptuous cashmere, beautifully cut coats and jackets, elegant loafers and the kind of understated handbags that make even jeans and a T-shirt look considered.

Some are investment pieces, others are brilliant high-street finds, but they all share that elusive expensive-looking quality she does so well. Keep scrolling for the winter buys my French best friend recommends—and that this Shopping Editor wholeheartedly agrees with.

French Friend Shopping List

Anyone who knows me will tell you that I’m a classic dresser to the core, prioritising simple silhouettes, neutral hues and pared-back designs. But even a minimalist like me gets bored of wearing the same basics day after day. So, for winter 2026, I’ve made it my goal to add slightly trendier pieces to my outfit rotations—nothing too out there, of course, as I still want my capsule wardrobe to feel timeless and well within my comfort zone. I’m after fresher but no less wearable fashion tweaks that will take my winter outfits from simple to elevated. And my first port of call? Scouting what the chicest dressers around Europe are wearing.

Whether you’re a maximalist or a more classic dresser like me, there are certain fashion trends that just make your outfits look considered without feeling too try-hard. Cool European dressers I follow always seem to get this right, so they're always where I turn. From eternally chic Parisiennes to functionally-stylish Scandi girls and, of course, the eclectic aesthetics I spot every day on my travels around London, the European fashion set consistently serves up excellent looks, and this season is no different.

From mood-boosting knits to chic waisted silhouettes, keep scrolling to discover the five elevated and elegant European fashion trends I’ll be adding to my winter 2026 wardrobe.

5 European Fashion Trends I'm Adding to My Winter 2026 Wardrobe

WHERE: Oslo, Norway

WHAT: Fringe Detailing

Style Notes: A statement detail that somehow also manages to feel inherently sophisticated, fringe hemlines are the perfect addition to any minimalist's wardrobe this season, and I’ve been majorly inspired by the elegant fashion girls from Oslo. Bringing texture and movement to an otherwise basic winter outfit, it comes without the need for bold colours or busy patterns that feel a little too out there for pared-back dressers like me.

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WHERE: Paris, France

WHAT: Waisted Jackets

Style Notes: Waisted silhouettes have been huge in the past few years, and the French girls have proven that they’re going nowhere for winter 2026. An instant outfit elevator, chic Parisiennes have proven that a jacket with a cinched-in waist is not only extremely flattering, but the shape provides a polished finish that will dress up any jeans, skirts, or tailored trousers this season. And the best part? The luxury and high-street picks I’ve rounded up below prove that this sophisticated outerwear style will look expensive regardless of the price point you choose to invest in.

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WHERE: London, England

WHAT: Violet Knitwear

Style Notes: I’ve been spotting bright purple knits on my commute around London for a while now. A much bolder alternative to the darker neutrals I tend to reach for when the temperature drops, I’ll be wearing violet jumpers, cardigans, scarves, and gloves in place of the vibrant cherry reds I added to my wardrobe in 2025. This knitwear colour trend feels eye-catching enough to gain the acceptance of the more daring dressers around the city, but remains wearable enough for those with a more classic taste, like me.

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WHERE: Amsterdam, Netherlands

WHAT: Animal-Print Faux Fur

Style Notes: Faux fur and animal print are in no way new trends for winter, but pair them together as the Dutch fashion girls do, and you’ve got yourself a fresh detail to elevate your cold-weather looks. Whether it be leopard, zebra, or even the most recently trending deer print, faux fur in these patterns will act as a point of difference in an otherwise pared-back outfit. Not to mention, these pieces will keep you cosy even on the chilliest days.

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WHERE: Munich, Germany

WHAT: Check Prints

Style Notes: If you’ve already started your winter shopping, you’ve likely noticed checks are everywhere at the moment, and the chicest dressers in Munich have fully embraced the trend. Whether it be preppy plaid or moody "dark academia" tartan, checks are an elevated pattern in neutral hues that still feels wearable to a minimalist dresser like me. And you best believe I’ll be using this print trend as an easy way to add interest to my winter capsule wardrobe.

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Cast your eyes over the streets of Paris, from the flying buttresses of the Île de la Cité to the grey slanted rooftops of Montmartre, and you’ll immediately notice how much of a priority chic footwear is in traversing the city. Whether strolling through the rocky pathways of the Tuileries Garden or hitting the cobblestone streets flanking the vintage boutiques of Le Marais, functionality is always a priority when getting dressed. But this need not come at the cost of style, as the key winter 2026 shoe trends prove.

Many might assume a French woman’s shoe collection begins and ends with a pair of beloved ballet flats, be it the two-toned Chanel slippers or a more contemporary take from Repetto. But upon asking the most stylish person in my orbit, a French friend of mine who has lived in the City of Lights for years, she reminded me that Parisians are far more used to change than they let on.

As she told me, as the seasons change, these delicate flats can no longer contend with grey skies, brisk downpours, and the flirtation of a snowstorm every now and then. Of course, should you stick by these loyal companions, you will not only find yourself utterly freezing, but risk channelling Carrie Bradshaw in the Sex and the City series finale when she trips and falls headfirst into Dior’s Avenue Montaigne flagship boutique.

Investing in tasteful cold-weather essentials, although prudent, shouldn’t require a lot of effort. That is especially true if you take the lead of the discerning French women who are already adopting these key winter shoe trends. Always one step ahead, this cohort is offering sleek alternatives to gathered loafers, wearing more considered boot trends and demonstrating that a pair of trainers doesn’t need to be your default shoe. So, elevate your wardrobe for the cooler months ahead and adopt the key French winter shoe trends that are prevailing this season.

6 French-Girl Winter 2026 Shoe Trends to Try

1. Pointed-Toe Flats

Style Notes: Bid adieu to your soft round-toe ballet flats. This season, the harsh temperatures can only be matched by equally severe shoe shapes. Whilst razor-sharp boots are often the dominant trend during winter, the same chiselled front is now being applied to flats for a more austere effect. Inject a graceful element into the look with suede trench coats and sumptuous knitwear.

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2. Moccasins

Style Notes: Much of this year has signalled the rise of the urban prep: a pseudo bourgeois aesthetic defined by smart tailoring and casually artistic sensibilities. Michael Rider’s Celine has become the poster child for this kind of dressing, which is only doubled down on by the brand’s soaring popularity and cult status. (Jazz shoes! The New Luggage bag! Logo belts!) Now, in a move that will make you feel like a completely snotty yuppie, French women are parking their gathered loafers and gravitating towards the ultimate collegiate staple: moccasins. Far more lived-in than a loafer, this trend also embraces bohemian codes through the fringe-front and tasselled finish.

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3. Heeled Ballet Pumps

Style Notes: It’s been quite the year for the casual pump. And now, the elevated motif is being applied to a Parisian’s perennial shoe choice: ballet flats. With block heels and a ruched front, this style brings an understated elegance to more robust winter attire, softening essentials like stovepipe jeans and leather jackets. Check the forecast before you wear these, though; the last thing you want is to be caught out in a flash storm with the top of your foot exposed to the elements.

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4. Slouch Boots

Style Notes: Slouch boots have had quite the overhaul over the last year. No longer exclusively synonymous with an early 2000s Kate Moss strolling through Primrose Hill in her Vivienne Westwood pirate boots, the scrunched effect has become quite the defining feature for dressers looking for more intrigue from their footwear. Whether styled with jeans tucked into the top or on their own with opera coats, this shoe trend certainly makes a statement.

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5. Wedge Boots

Style Notes: On the topic of impactful boots, wedge heels are one such trend that’s carried over season after season. Though this look might resemble the Isabel Marant wedge trainers that reigned supreme in the indie sleaze era, they’ve since been co-signed by some seriously sophisticated brands, including Khaite, Le Monde Beryl and Dear Frances.

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6. Polka-Dot Prints

Style Notes: A cornerstone of gamine Parisian dressing since Audrey Hepburn, polka dots remain a timeless essential, despite their obvious connotations with blissful summers spent on the Côte d'Azur. For winter, however, they’re being relegated to a more intentional purpose as polka-dot flats and polka-dot slingbacks reign supreme. Currently available at the likes of Jacquemus, Valentino and Manolo Blahnik, this shoe trend is serotonin-boosting, joy-evoking bliss.

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Among the many pleasures autumn brings—crisp blue skies, brown leaves and amber light—are the brisk-weather days that make it my favourite season for stomping around in my all-time favourite shoe: the loafer. With the perfect (albeit fleeting) backdrop for wearing them now upon us, I'm making the most of loafer season and honing in on the jeans pairing that makes them look their best.

Taking inspiration from off-duty models and a plethora of chic Parisians, I've come to one conclusion: the most stylish people are wearing their loafers with cropped jeans this autumn.

By leaving a little ankle on show, this denim silhouette builds on the preppy feel of a polished pair of loafers, bringing an easy smartness to an outfit that few other flat-shoe-and-jeans combinations can quite replicate.

Wearing hers with a button-down shirt and boxy blazer, Elsa Hosk leaned into the polished feel of the pairing. Elsewhere, across the Channel, I've spotted similarly chic combinations styled with chunky knits and dramatic collars for an equally preppy, put-together effect.

Jeans and flats don't have to feel casual. If you're looking to give your everyday denim a more elevated spin this season, read on to shop the best cropped jeans and loafers I've found below.

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No matter how many think pieces we dedicate to understanding the inimitable quality of French fashion, the answer will always be their collections of well-edited basics. It’s this innate understanding and appreciation for fundamental styling items that make their outfits so effortless. Each woman has a rotation of simple-but-effective pieces they can always rely on: a pair of tailored trousers, excellent ballet flats, even a red lipstick they can swipe across the mouth to elevate even the most mundane of ensembles.

Like the decadent Belle Époque interiors of iconic establishments such as Le Grand Café, these items are rarely likely to change. Rather, as the seasons fluctuate, they get fine-tuned ever so slightly to adjust to the drop in temperature. Now, as the weather cools and days get shorter, French women will be turning their attention to winter-wardrobe staples that will see them through frigid wind chill and grey skies.

As you’ll find, these essentials are far from the boring thermal layers that you pick up absentmindedly on your next high street visit. These styles, although necessary in near-arctic conditions, aren't purely functional. Rather, there is an elegance in the way French women approach winter dressing, utilising pieces that tastefully combat the elements through considered materials and elevated design. After all, just because you’re forced to wear chunky jumpers, woollen beanies and sturdy boots, you have to sacrifice your devotion to looking sophisticated.

So, without further ado, scroll through to shop the key winter-wardrobe staples French women will be wearing throughout winter 2026.

6 Chic Wardrobe Staples French Women Will Wear for Winter 2026

1. Trench Coat

Style Notes: From Isabelle Huppert in 2001’s The Piano Teacher to Catherine Deneuve in 1964’s The Umbrellas of Cherbourg, the trench coat has been a crucial part of France’s cinematic legacy. So, it should come as no surprise to see French women take cues from the silver screen and wear this piece in their everyday lives, too. Favourites include a beige car coat from Burberry—because why ignore the classics?—and emerging brands like Amsterdam’s Welter Shelter and Scandinavia’s Almada Label.

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2. Tuxedo Blazer

Style Notes: Ever since Yves Saint Laurent introduced the Le Smoking jacket—a suave, slim-cut eveningwear suit—in 1966, the silhouette has been a fundamental part of French women’s wardrobe. This style is the perfect accompaniment to going-out ensembles, with the tuxedo blazer the sleek finishing touch on those long winter nights spent sheltering over a plate of steak frites at Brasserie Lipp.

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3. V-Neck Sweater

Style Notes: It’s oftentimes the minuscule details that make the most significant impact when putting together a thoughtful outfit during the cooler months. Knitwear is one category where this feels incredibly relevant, as a tweak to the neckline, print or colour can change the overall look. So, what are French women gravitating towards this season? V-neck sweaters. Deceptively sultry, this neck offers a glimpse at whatever lies beneath, creating a silhouette that appears more thoughtful and intentional.

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4. Straight-Leg Jeans

Style Notes: Where there’s a French woman, there’s bound to be a pair of straight-leg jeans. A staple adored by countless style icons, from Jane Birkin to Charlotte Gainsbourg, the classic nature of this denim shape makes it easy to translate from season to season. Invest in the right shape and style, and you’ll never struggle with what to wear, especially as denim lends itself perfectly to outfit formulas rooted in sumptuous knitwear and elevated outerwear.

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5. Suede Boots

Style Notes: Suede boots are an elevated alternative to traditional leather footwear, and if the appetite for Saint Laurent’s napped Le Loafers or Le Monde Beryl’s latte coloured Mary Janes is any indication, it’s that these textured touches will continue to trickle through into winter capsule wardrobes. Of course, it’s not just French designers doing this style exceptionally well. Look to knee-high styles from Khaite or zip–ups from The Row for more covetable options.

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6. Ladylike Bags

Style Notes: The French have a concept called "le masculin-féminin", which refers to the art of mixing both traditionally masculine and feminine items. Where they might rely on a foundation of boyish tailoring and boxy shirting, they’ll subvert these concepts with an exuberantly graceful accessory that softens the overall look. Ladylike bags are one way they toy with these notions, from structured top-handles to oversized shapes. Opt for something like the Dior Cigale, named after a famous 1952 dress designed by Monsieur Dior himself, or the Jacquemus Valerie.

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This just in: one of the chicest French women around, Emily in Paris's Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu (aka Sylvie Grateau), has put me onto one of the smartest airport outfits I've seen this season. Better still, it centres on two of my own in-flight essentials: jeans and trainers.

Making this tried-and-tested travel pairing look particularly polished, Philippine opted for fresh white trainers with a matching pair of white jeans. From there, she built on the crisp, tonal palette with a boxy white blazer and a coordinating baseball cap, pulling the whole look together without sacrificing an ounce of comfort.

For me, it's the head-to-toe approach that makes this outfit feel so chic. By keeping everything within the same colour family, Philippine gives two casual wardrobe staples a more considered feel. Well worth saving down for your next flight, not least because it'll make heading straight out after landing that much easier. And, of course, you don't need to be travelling to make it work: this is just as suited to a busy day running around town.

Pinned to my travel-day moodboard, if you're taking notes, too, I've rounded up the white jeans and trainers I'd recommend shopping below.

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The street style we saw at Paris Fashion Week delivered a visual feast that rivals Brasserie Lipp's signature steak frites and Chez Janou’s famous chocolate mousse. As the final stop of the travelling fashion circus, one might think that the industry insiders and tastemakers who visit every style capital would’ve given up trying by now, arriving at shows in their definition of business casual in hotel-esque slippers from Charvet and oversized sunglasses that would swallow any signs of under-eye bags whole. On the contrary. Reaching the end of the line has seemed to give attendees a second wind, as big-name editors, starry clientele and all manner of celebrity guests cohabit in the City of Lights.

For the spring/summer 2027 season, a full calendar year on from countless new creative director debuts, the city found its rhythm as a hum of clacky stilettos hit the cobblestone pavements. Incumbent LVMH Prize winner, Belgian-born Julie Kegels, opened the week with an avant-garde collection of drop-crotch tan stockings and crystal-adorned nipple pasties. Dior was a true breath of fresh air, as Johnathan Anderson gathered the likes of Jennifer Lawrence and Rihanna at the Jardin des Tuileries for a show buoyed by lightness.

The mood immediately shifted to darkness as Anthony Vaccarello painted the Trocadéro Fountain black and gold. Proving his Midas touch at what is rumoured to be his final collection after a decade at the helm of the French maison, the designer illuminated the night sky with gilded silhouettes that crescendoed into a finale of funeral-inspired attire. Talk about mourning glory.

Off the runway, everywhere from the Grand Palais for Chanel to L’Observatoire de Paris for Chloé was saturated with the most outré offerings. From house ambassadors dressed in custom creations to influencers styling loaned pieces with items from their own wardrobes, the ensembles translated some of the most sophisticated trends into real-life appeal. So, without further ado, scroll through for the leading street-style trends that commanded Paris Fashion Week.

The 5 Key Street-Style Trends From Paris Fashion Week September 2026

1. Flat White

Style Notes: For a city revered for its Beaujolais and Syrah, the colour palette seen on the best-dressed this season is not compatible with sipping on a glass of red at a nearby café-tabac. From Kendall Jenner pairing a single-breasted white blazer with beige pants to Greta Lee wearing ballet slipper pink folded capris with a satin jacket and Karlie Kloss in a vanilla cape blouse with khaki jeans, the shades of this season are more attuned to café au lait. This carried through onto the runway too, from the opening looks of Matières Fécales' standout "The Ninety Nine Percent" collection to the muted mid-section in Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez’s latest show for Loewe.

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2. Ladies in Lace

Style Notes: Much has been said about the rise of "ladylike" dressing, especially with the reign of pencil skirts, white shirts and sleek heels. Of course, if this all sounds like something Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy would’ve worn to work at Calvin Klein, you’d be correct. However, as the street style at Paris Fashion Week indicated, the trend is moving out of the boardroom and into the boudoir, with romantic camisoles and delicate edges. A little less Christina Hendrix in Mad Men and a little more Nicole Kidman in Moulin Rouge! The lace-trim trend brings a romantic sensibility to even the most astute outfit, as Alexa Chung proved by pairing her butter-yellow singlet with sensible pinstripe trousers.

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3. Night Prowler

Style Notes: As evening settles over the arrondissements, the scintillating twinkle of the Eiffel Tower sets the stage for a night of debauchery and decadence. For after-hours that begin and end with dirty martinis at Hôtel Costes, there is only one shoe suitable for keeping up with the revelry in store: sultry slingbacks. Endorsed this season by nearly everyone in the front row at Saint Laurent, including Zoë Kravitz, Lila Moss and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, this vampy iteration brings a seductive edge to a style that’s been a staple for French dressing since Coco Chanel designed the two-tone slingback in 1957.

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4. Shabby Chic

Style Notes: As the streets of Paris Fashion Week have indicated, a penchant for curated maximalism and eccentric bohemia has finally taken the place of quiet luxury. From the printed brocade fabrics of Dries Van Noten to the chunky intarsia jumpers of Chloé, the amalgamation of different aesthetics is something that would’ve been frowned upon a few years ago, but is now gladly welcomed into the fold. Proudly eclectic and slightly bric-a-brac, this shabby-chic style is shaping up to be one of the most defining trends of the season. Someone please call their granny and tell her she did it first!

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5. Friends in High Places

Style Notes: The higher the heel, the more you need to pair a sock with it. At least that’s what the street-style set at Paris Fashion Week demonstrated. With slight nods to the "indie sleaze" styling of pairing tights with denim shorts, unexpected hosiery layering is quickly becoming the mode du jour. And with twee making a comeback, we can easily see this paving the way for a resurgence of sweet lace-trim styles under Mary Janes. Plus, with winter on the horizon, who can fault you for wanting an extra layer?

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We regularly try on pieces ourselves—everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes—and speak to external experts and fashion insiders, staying closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise, and each and every buy we feature has to meet our exceptional taste standards—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

If you're looking for fresh jeans-and-shoe styling inspiration, you've landed in the right place. A Parisian pairing is suddenly making its way out of France, with some of the chicest women in London and New York putting their own spin on the timeless two-piece.

Whilst bootcut jeans and ballet flats has long been a fixture in the wardrobes of France's best-dressed women, this week I spotted Dakota Johnson stepping out in New York, giving the look a NYC spin. Wearing it with Valentino's Wool Crepe Jacket (£4300), Dakota tapped into the fur-trimmed jacket trend that's gathering pace in the city. Her ever-so-slightly cropped bootcut jeans brought a relaxed edge to the polished jacket, while a pair of black ballet flats kept the look sleek and grounded.

Then, across the pond, I spotted Lila Moss roaming around London in almost exactly the same combination. Whilst Dakota's jeans finished at the ankle, Lila's fell slightly longer, but both shared the same gently flared silhouette that feels effortlessly French and just a little retro.

With sightings now spanning Paris, New York and London, this specific jeans-and-shoe pairing is looking increasingly like a contender to knock straight-leg jeans from their long-held top spot. If you're feeling inspired by the stylish crowd, read on to shop the bootcut jeans and ballet flats I'd recommend adding to your autumn rotation.

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As we welcome leather jackets and wool jumpers back into our closets, it's hard not to consider the months that come after. The days are getting shorter, and whilst we're just starting to enjoy our autumn rotations, my mind has drifted to the early winter French fashion trends that are helping me build a more cohesive cold-weather capsule wardrobe. The French fashion set is skilled at preventing numerous layers and thick textures from commandeering personal style, and so that's why, each year, I turn to them for inspiration.

As a fashion writer, I'm lucky enough to be inundated with inspiration. I've honed my own winter wardrobe and always feel honoured to help others do the same. Yet, I'm always interested in the trends that the most fashionable people I know are adopting each season. And like many other fashionable places around the world, France has a penchant for noticing and implementing trends quickly. The most admirable thing of all, though, is how well seasonal French trends are worked into an existing wardrobe. Trends that might seem like they'll be short-lived are worn in such a way that extends their lifespan and makes them feel much more timeless.

Take this season's pencil skirts and brocade jackets. Although they're trendy, French tastemakers are turning them into long-standing staples by pairing them with button-down shirts and jeans, respectively. They also know how to give past trends a new life. Argyle knits and cuffed jeans are making their way back into the fashion narrative this winter and feel completely transformed by French wardrobes.

This is just a small sampling of what's ahead. Scroll on to see all the early winter French fashion trends starting to emerge for 2026.

7 Early Winter French Fashion Trends to Copy in 2026

1. Collarless Coats

Style Notes: As much as I love a scarf coat or outerwear with exaggerated collars, there is something so sleek about a collarless coat or jacket—something women in Paris and Oslo started wearing earlier this year. This style offers clean lines and ample opportunities for accessorising however you like, whether it's with a triangle scarf, crochet bandana or lace cape. Paired with jeans and your favourite boots, and a chic pillbox hat on top, and you have an excellent warm but sophisticated winter uniform.

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2. Pencil Skirts

Style Notes: Whether you spotted them on the runways of Miu Miu, Chanel, Prada or Jil Sander, it was made clear that pencil skirt outfits would be prevalent this autumn and winter. The French fashion set has taken note, proving the versatility of this silhouette. A leather version in a maxi length is particularly suitable for the next few months and is French-stylist-approved. You can wear them with thick wool jumpers and tights on cold days or pair them with a blazer and button-down when the sun is out.

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3. Argyle Knits

Style Notes: Classic knits are named so for a reason, but every year one seemingly takes the spotlight. Whilst Fair Isle knits and cardigans garnered attention last winter, French fashion creators are backing the rise of the argyle jumper. Though it has a long and rich history, it's no longer a back-of-the-wardrobe piece this winter, but rather a focal point. Argyle diamonds are a striking combination with bold prints (especially if you're a fan of maximalism), but they look lovely with jeans and plain wool skirts, too.

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4. Cuffed Jeans

Style Notes: If you've been carefully tip-toeing around this year's dated jeans trends, you can find respite in cuffed or turn-up jeans. The intentionally folded hems of this denim trend add a change in colour and texture, which often feels hard to do in winter without relying solely on knits, scarves and outerwear. They're cool as the main statement, but equally as fun to wear with bold shoes (such as Dalmatian print or another trending animal print from autumn) or a vibrant red jumper on top.

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5. Asymmetric Handbags

Style Notes: Whilst we're warmly wrapped up in one too many layers, I find that one of the best extensions of your personal style is handbags. An embroidered clutch, an eye-catching tote bag and other various handbag trends can make all the difference when you feel like you have less ground to work with. This winter, there's been an uptick in asymmetric bags, and now fashionable French residents are reaching for them too. We likely have The Attico and its La Passeggiata bag to thank for this, and other brands have followed suit, from Kate Spade to Lemaire to The Row. Though colours, textures and patterns can stand out, there is something about a wavy and uneven bag that's notably fun to wear and look at.

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6. Printed Shoes

Style Notes: We're in a true renaissance of animal print trends this year, and it's by no means slowing down. There's no better time to wear them than in winter either, as we're draped in thick fabrics and rich colours—an animal print shoe or scarf is the perfect finishing touch. If you look to the most stylish French folks this season, a patterned shoe is the choice du jour. Even if you're a touch averse to animal-inspired prints, polka dots, stripes, plaid, argyle and paisley are all excellent alternatives. In fact, freaky footwear is undoubtedly in, so let your experimentation go wild.

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7. Brocade Jackets

Style Notes: With the return of bohemian fashion trends, in came brocade jackets. These are versatile enough to appeal to nearly any fashion sense, regardless of whether or not you like boho elements in your rotation. As much as we all love a black coat, long coats and other classic outerwear staples, the ornate details of a brocade jacket—whether rendered in silk, wool or cotton—are a nice alternative. Cropped jackets look chic contrasted against tailored trousers or jeans, and longer dusters and carpet-like coats are essential if you want layers with more coverage.

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If you're sourcing Paris autumn weekend trip packing ideas for an upcoming holiday, you're in safe hands. As a reformed overpacker, I've become somewhat of a connoisseur of weekend travel. And having had my fair share of trips to Paris, I can confirm that being well dressed, and there for well prepared for any occasion, really does matter, despite what efficient packers may tell you.

The best way to pack for Paris is to curate a selection of excellent capsule wardrobe pieces that'll work for a variety of plans and situations. That way, you have options but still have room for all the pieces you pick up along the way. In Paris, that means having everything you need for both a dinner at Chez Janou and exploring your shortlisted arrondissements. Not to mention, Paris Fashion Week is nearly upon us, and whether you're attending shows or visiting during a very well-timed week, you'll want to feel your best.

To start, you have plenty of classic Parisian autumn trends that'll serve as inspiration. The rest can come from the autumn basics that make up a solid wardrobe. I've learned a few lessons from each trip I've taken to this glittering city and have distilled them further into an autumn-specific packing list.

For instance, traipsing around a Surrealism exhibition at the Centre Pompidou in trainers was fine, but I felt out of place heading to dinner after. Now? I pack heeled ballet pumps. Layers are also essential. Paris can be both warm and sunny as well as chilly and rainy, so a waisted leather jacket, knee-high boots and jeans all serve their purpose.

The cuisine is also exceptional, so for all your forays into filled-to-the-brim bistros and Michelin Guide establishments, a sophisticated dress will ensure you never feel underdressed. You'll also make the most of a spacious tote bag, because no matter how assured you are about not buying anything, Paris' second-to-none shopping will always entice. (Not to mention, a tote is very useful for carrying picnic supplies to the nearest parc ou jardin!)

Without further ado, here are the Paris autumn weekend trip packing ideas that'll result in the best outfits for this stay and the next one.

7 Packing Ideas for Your Paris Autumn 2026 Weekend Trip:

1. Classic Jeans

Style Notes: As fun as denim trends are, a weekend trip doesn't have space or time for experimenting with them. Instead, opt for a classic pair, like straight-leg jeans or stovepipe styles, which will work with every other top and knit you've brought with you. They're the right level for days of exploring and picnicking at Jardin des Tuileries—grab your baguette and other delicacies from La Grande Épicerie de Paris, then cross the Seine. They'll work with the leather jacket, pumps, tote, boots and various other elements of this travel-ready capsule.

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2. Waisted Jacket

Style Notes: When you can't decide on what piece of outerwear to prioritise, I recommend opting for the piece that combines several elements for added versatility and even the occasional nod from a stylish Parisian. After all, some of the very best French girl autumn outfits feature leather and suede jackets. It may be sunny some days, but if cooler weather sets in whilst you're shopping around Le Marais, you'll want a good jacket. A waisted silhouette fits nearly any occasion or mood. It's also ultra-sleek in its own right, but only amplified when it's rendered in leather.

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3. Sleek Dress

Style Notes: You may have had a booking reserved at Brasserie Du Billot several months in advance or perhaps there's an impromptu romantic dinner at another cosy bistro in your future—regardless, you'll want to be prepared by having a sleek dress on hand. Cap sleeves, midi lengths and dresses in neutral shades will never leave you worrying about unspoken dress codes. Whether you have a gorgeous, sculptural charcoal grey dress or a reliable little black dress, bring it along. With the next versatile item on the list (heeled ballerinas), you'll be ready for whatever the evening brings, even if it's slipping into a certain cabaret show.

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4. Heeled Ballet Pumps

Style Notes: There are far too many wonderful places to have a coffee in Paris, and if you really want to embrace the laid-back (but always well-styled) way of Parisians, learn from my mistakes and skip the trainers and wear heeled ballerina pumps. This re-emerging shoe trend has been popular amongst French women for years now and is suitable enough for thousands of steps, but the heel gives it an added layer of elegance. Even if you're used to wearing workout gear to your local cafe, you'll feel put together when grabbing an oat latte from The Coffee or a slice of cake at Sevenly Heart.

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5. Spacious Tote

Style Notes: Paris calls for both a macro tote and a compact handbag, but if you can only bring one, you'll never regret having something larger. If you're primarily there to shop, this will carry your essentials and any smaller items you pick up. Even if I'm not there to shop, I always end up, at the very least, gathering a few favourite French pharmacy finds and vintage stationery from Mélodies Graphiques. Consider Toteme's Day Tote for exploring this stylish city or a minimalist suede bag, which is practically made for this season in particular.

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6. Knee-High Boots

Style Notes: It is autumn after all, and boots are always an elegant choice, whether worn with jeans or a skirt. A knee-high pair is a French girl staple, and they're perfectly primed for wandering around Paris, giving you more coverage on colder days or those that see a bit of rain. Wear them on the plane or train so you can skip crushing them in your suitcase and save on space.

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7. Sculptural Jewellery

Style Notes: The most stylish people know that a well-rounded collection of cool girl jewellery is a serious help in accessorising and differentiating outfits on a weekend trip. Keep it refined but eye-catching with sculptural rings and bracelets, or stack a few of your favourite pendants or necklaces. Metallic finishes, set jewels and colourful stones all contrast nicely against more neutral outfits.

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8. Simple Knit

Style Notes: No autumn capsule is complete without a few pieces of impeccable knitwear, and when you're beholden to a smaller wardrobe (or merely a weekend in Paris), one versatile piece is plenty. An anti-trend crewneck knit with a relaxed fit is a fail-proof choice. It can be worn over tees and shirts and styled with jeans, skirts and boots. You won't be chilly in theatres or museums, but you can just as easily take it off and wrap it around your shoulders or waist (or fold it and put it in your tote).

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Rarely does anyone claim winter as their favourite season to dress for. It's a complicated task finding stylish winter outfits that won't leave your teeth chattering, but don't give hope up just yet. Parisian winter outfits provide a gold mine of inspiration, regardless of what your weather app says.

Similar to London, Paris is cool and wet from October through to February, and it's no stranger to the occasional snow day. When you're faced with dipping temperatures and ever-changing forecasts, it's confounding trying to find a combination of layers that works but also doesn't ultimately erase your personal style. Leave it to French fashion insiders to set the tone and help you gather the makings of an excellent winter capsule wardrobe.

The French style set have mastered the art of transitional wardrobe staples and their autumn shopping lists are always immaculately curated, but they're just as fashionably prepared for winter. If the usual garments that come to mind when thinking of hibernation season attire make you yawn, then it's a good thing you're here.

Shapeless puffers. Bedraggled leggings. Scuffed boots—we all have them somewhere. Yet, this doesn't have to define how you dress for this time of year. And it's certainly not representative of Parisian winter fashion.

Instead, winter coats are tailored and refined. Cosy wool jumpers and ornate tapestry jackets take centre stage. Faux fur-lined outerwear brings a glamorous edge to grey-skied days. Even skirts find their way into winter rotations through longer lengths and warm cashmere materials. Scarves, belts, slouchy totes and kitten-heel boots are also welcomed in to make cold-weather dressing feel elevated and joyful, not something you dread.

Scroll on for a collection of Parisian winter outfits that prove it's not about the month or season but about the pieces you choose and how you style them.

7 Chic Parisian Winter Outfits to Replicate in 2026

1. Cape Blouse + Maxi Skirt + Kitten Heel Boots

Style Notes: Yes, puffer coats and wool jackets are must-haves in any winter wardrobe. But nothing infuses a whisper of luxury into your outfit like a cape jacket or scarf blouse. French tastemakers have some of the best outerwear collections I've ever seen, and these swooping, drapeable pieces are often incorporated into their cold-weather rotations. You can pull inspiration from Pierre Cardin's candy-coloured capes that paraded down runways or go subtle with a soft cream or grey version. Regardless of what you choose, capes have a fluidity and elegance that elevate your entire look, whether you opt for full monochrome cream attire featuring a matching maxi skirt and ankle boots, or wear a cape with jeans.

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2. Tapestry Jacket + French Jeans Jeans + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Moving between autumn and winter doesn't always require an immediate overhaul. There are plenty of crisp, sunny days in the lead-up to freezing-cold ones, and in those cases, an outfit with a tapestry jacket and jeans is key. These intricate, gem-coloured pieces quickly mesmerised us on the autumn/winter 2026 runways at Dries Van Noten, Christian Dior and Franck Sorbier. With patterns that look as if they've been plucked from Renaissance paintings, tapestry jackets provide richness to your winter capsule, especially when paired with recent handbag trends like carpet florals. Add a pair of French jeans and ballet flats ,or use it to break up an all-black outfit. It's a signifier that maximalism is indeed coming back, and a quick way of incorporating it into your rotation, even if it's not your usual fare.

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3. Tailored Coat + Balloon Trousers + Flats

Style Notes: When it comes to winter fashion, one of the most classic items Parisians rely on is a chic tailored coat, whether it's made of wool, leather or cashmere. But if you'd like to work in a trendier element or two, consider wearing your go-to winter coat with balloon trousers and high-vamp flats. It's refined and sleek, but a little more visually interesting due to the volume of the trousers and the unique silhouette of the shoes.

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4. Fur Coat + Wide-Leg Trousers + Flats

Style Notes: Nothing makes a statement quite like faux fur elements, whether it's cuffs and collar, a fur-lined jacket or a full fur coat. They're glamorous, warm and a favourite of Parisians when the frostier months of the year come back around. It's no surprise that 2026 is yet again seeing an influx of these coats. A variety of striped variations appeared on Fendi's AW/26 runway, and both belted and buttoned styles walked the runway at Valentino and Miu Miu, respectively. Instantly maximal and fun, it's exactly the type of outerwear you want to wear over wide-leg trousers and pair with sharp-toed flats or boots that peek out from under. This formula can be shifted whether you're compiling boho outfits, prefer minimalist attire or don't mind trying a bit of everything.

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5. Turtleneck Jumper + Pencil Skirt + Knee-High Boots

Style Notes: When in doubt, never underestimate the power of the classic pieces that have been in capsule wardrobes for decades now. A soft, chunky turtleneck knit paired with a knee-length skirt and knee-high boots is one of winter's most enduring combinations. The French fashion set often relies on this look, particularly in shades like black, navy and brown, which helps maintain that timelessness. It's effortless to put together when you have these staples in your wardrobe, but it always looks sophisticated. You can play with the proportions of the jumper, skirt and boots for different options (such as a slouchy knit with a mini skirt and tall boots, or a long maxi with kitten-heel boots and a cropped knit).

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6. Cardigan + Leather Skirt + Tights

Style Notes: When it comes to making winter dressing more playful, mixing a variety of textures and finishes is a simple but impactful idea worth putting into practice. One sleek formula is a cardigan, skirt and tights combination, all in various textures and tones that, although different, look cohesive when they come together. Beaded and embellished cardigans have been a focal point of Simone Rocha's runways, not just this year, but many prior, featuring beaded collars, bejewelled clusters and cutouts. You can also take a page from Khaite's current collection that's honed in heavily on ostrich-effect leather. The raised bumps are intriguing but don't lean into more overwhelming patterns or colours. Lastly, tights add another element of texture and colour, especially when it's cold. Tory Burch has fronted this movement in its recent collection, and it makes sense as they're the perfect backdrop for a pierced shoe and other freaky footwear trends.

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7. Fur Jacket + Cargo Trousers + Ankle Boots

Style Notes: Losing your sense of style in the bundled layers of winter is all too relatable, but as you'll see with many Parisian outfits, it's totally possible to maintain your personality even when there's snow on the ground. Exploring various textures, cuts, silhouettes and lengths can give your outfits more shape and differentiation. A fluffy fur jacket paired with utilitarian cargo trousers and suede boots is a perfect example of how to stray from the usual. It's first and foremost undeniably stylish, but it's also warm and functional.

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