It's not always an easy feat to keep our levels of chicness high when the temps dip low, but who better to inspire our winter outfits than the fashion-forward French, who basically embody the words "effortlessly chic"? In fact, throughout many years of writing about French-girl style, I've kept a close eye on items French women always reach for to look chic and polished through the cold-weather season.
When it comes to French-girl winter outfits, it's all about comfort, convenience, and classic pieces that will elevate an ensemble, and luckily for us, taking a leaf out of their book doesn't require too much effort. Keep scrolling for the eight essential items French girls reach for to stay warm and look chic all season long, from striking long overcoats to cozy cardigans.
1. Long, Oversize Wool Overcoat
Style Notes: If there's one item I see over and over again on stylish French women in winter, it's a long, slightly oversize wool coat—usually in a classic colour such as navy, black, or camel. There is something so chic about the elongated silhouette, and it works with everything from sneaker outfits to knit dresses, jeans, and more. Unquestionably, it's the number one French-girl essential for looking chic in winter.
SHOP WOOL OVERCOATS:
The high collar makes this coat look extra chic.
This belted coat is effortlessly cool.
This sleek brown coat gets bonus points for being crafted from 70% recycled wool.
A cream wool coat will instantly elevate any winter look.
2. Walkable Leather Knee-High Boots
Style Notes: When it comes to boots, the French crowd skips the Uggs and instead favours leather knee-high boots with a walkable heel or a flat sole, preferably in versatile tan or black hues. They're ideal for styling with tights and a mini or midi skirt.
SHOP KNEE-HIGH BOOTS:
A great heel height for all day comfort.
So many of our editors have their sights set on this pair.
The kind of boots that go with everything.
Leopard print is a classic pattern that is particularly on trend this season.
3. Turtleneck
Style Notes: Whether layered under a blazer, button-down, knit, or all three, a classic turtleneck is a staple in every French woman's winter wardrobe. It's classic, smart, and chic. Nobody layers turtlenecks quite like the French.
SHOP TURTLENECKS:
This one is a true classic that is perfect for layering.
Pair this oversized style with your favourite jeans for an effortless look.
This also comes in seven other colours.
Nothing is more luxurious than a cashmere knit.
4. An Extra Jumper Tied Around the Shoulders
Style Notes: There's no doubt basic sweaters are an integral part of a French winter wardrobe, but to add a stylish finishing touch to a cold-weather look, French women like to tie a chunky knit nonchalantly around their shoulders—over their coat, sweater, or blazer—which provides extra warmth and exudes that effortlessly chic touch they're well and truly known for.
SHOP SWEATERS:
Seriously soft.
An oversized fit that's ideal for layering.
Red is a classic hue that is particularly popular this season.
An olive jumper is a true wardrobe staple.
5. Cos`y and Cute Cardigan
Style Notes: French women wear cardigans on a daily basis, opting for thicker iterations in the winter months. This is the perfect opportunity to add a little pop of colour to their neutral hues throughout the cold-weather season.
SHOP CARDIGANS:
Ultra cosy.
This is sure to brighten up your winter wardrobe.
The subtle ribbed texture really elevates this classic cardigan.
The oversized fit is perfect.
6. Shearling or Faux-Fur Coat
Style Notes: Whether it's a '70s-inspired suede coat lined with shearling, a striking faux-fur coat, or a fuzzy-collar coat, the French love a textured topper. Opt for one in a vintage-inspired silhouette.
SHOP FAUX FUR COATS:
This looks like a vintage find.
This also ticks off the long coat trend, too!
You'll pull this out on cold days year after year.
Trust Sezane to deliver French style staples like this timeless coat.
7. Statement Accessory
Style Notes: While we tend to see a lot of dark ensembles in winter, the French like to add an eye-catching element to their look in the form of statement accessories, like a leopard-print purse or a blue beanie.
SHOP STATEMENT ACCESSORIES:
Such a fun winter beanie.
You'll love it this season, and you'll use it forever.
A very chic pop of colour for your winter looks.
Stand out this snowy season.
8. Black Tights
Style Notes: Okay, so this may seem pretty basic, but the French really like to make use of their tights in winter. Whether sheer or thick, we see French women styling them with tweed and wool miniskirts and even city shorts and boots throughout the colder months. Stick to black for a chic look.
SHOP BLACK TIGHTS:
Take your dresses and skirts into winter with a pair of tights.
These go from a XS to a 3XL.
I'm a big fan of sheer tights.
For a pop of colour, opt for the blue or red version.
This post was previously published and has since been updated.
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