I Just Got Back From Paris—5 Outfits I’m Copying to Look Like a Local
A short weekend in Paris is all it takes to rekindle your sense of style. Somewhere between walks along the Seine, croissant pilgrimages and people watching over decadent hot chocolates, I noticed a pattern amongst the sartorial choices of the Parisian women.
What stood out was how edited everything felt. Yes, there was a capsule wardrobe at the base of each look: quality outerwear, classic knits and timeless denim, but with the addition of pieces rooted in the present moment. These subtle, trend-aware additions create new outfit formulas that feel fresh and elevated. Not a microtrend in sight, I envied the thoughtfulness that went into their looks: something cinched just so, a sculptural piece worn over layers, or a vintage accessory that grounded modern pieces.
By the end of the weekend, I felt like I’d had an education in the French way of dressing. Ahead, I’m breaking down the five outfit trends I spotted on repeat among some of the most stylish Parisian women. Read on for simple, wearable looks lifted straight from the streets of Paris.
5 OUTFIT TRENDS PARISIAN WOMEN ARE WEARING ON REPEAT
1. Borg Gilets Over Knitwear
STYLE NOTES: A borg gilet is a great finishing layer. Thrown over fine knits or simple seperates, it’s a great transitional piece that adds warmth on days where a coat may be too much. The added texture also gives dimension to an outfit.
Shop the Look:
With Nothing Underneath
Devon Jumper
Layer over everything from denim to suede.
COS
Corduroy Wide-Leg Trousers
The wide-leg just got even cooler.
A minimal take on the loafer.
ARKET
Leather Triangle Scarf
Bring a new texture to your triangle scarf collection.
2. Chunky Bangles Over Sleeves
STYLE NOTES: This was one of the simplest yet most effective styling tricks I saw in Paris. Worn over a knit, shirt or blazer sleeve, they add a sculptural finish that makes a statement without distracting from the rest of the look.
Shop the Look:
M&S
Air-Yarn Crew Neck Jumper
Available in 8 different colours.
Such a great price for jeans.
Orelia London
Statement Wave Bangle
Reformation
Oversized Patrizia Bag
A roomy but chic workwear bag.
3. Ladylike Accessories
STYLE NOTES: Ladylike accessories were used as subtle accessories rather than full statements. A hair turban, top-handle bag or leather gloves add a refined, vintage note that elevate even the simplest of outfits. It also works to lean into the the vintage nature of the accessories like @sylviemus_ with a vintage or faux fur coat.
Shop the Look:
The Frankie Shop
Ravello Coat
A luxurious faux fur option.
SLIP
Double-Lined Silk Turban
Great for your outfit, and great for your hair.
ANINE BING
Anine Bag Smooth Leather
A modern take on a vintage classic.
Mango
Classic Satin Pointed Heel in Black
Just add 15 denier tights.
Daisy London Jewellery
Polly Oversized Woven Square Stud Earrings
4. Belted Coats
STYLE NOTES: Rather than relying on built-in ties, a lot of women in Paris opted for skinny belts to cinch in their coats. This was a styling hack commonly used on thin coats such as trenches and car coats to create a new silhouette while still keeping the volume up top.
Shop the Look:
Prada
Single-Breasted Coat
Boden
High Rise Fitted Flare Jeans
Gucci
Thin Belt With Interlocking G Buckle
ZARA
Kitten-Heel Slingback Shoes
Layer with thin-knit socks on colder days.
A favourite among fashion editors.
5. Layered Skirts
STYLE NOTES: Only the French could take a concept that on paper seems maximalist, and give it a minimalist spin. The layering of two skirts creates a new, textural silhouette, but by keeping the tones monochromatic, the outfit feels cohesive. Look for skirts with similar textures and silhouettes, and have a play to find a combination that works. Use a blazer up top to contrast the fluidity.
Shop the Look:
Nobody’s Child
Black Cinched Blazer
Size up for an oversized fit.
The cuff detail will add a touch of romance to a tailored blazer.
Jil Sander
Pleated Mid-Length Skirt
This will take your from Spring to Summer, effortlessly.
Joseph
Ade Knit Weave Plissé Skirt
Can also be layered over jeans and tailored trousers.
Essen the Label
The Foundation Flat
A minimalist ballet flat.
