Dressing for winter is always a balancing act. Coats get bulkier, layers pile up and suddenly looking stylish feels slightly less effortless than it did in September. Staying warm is essential, but so is feeling put-together—and that sweet spot can sometimes be hard to find.
Whenever I feel in need of cold-weather outfit clarity, I look to French women. Their winter style is built on pieces that are timeless, practical and quietly elegant—no overstyling, no fast fashion chaos, just smart wardrobe choices that work year after year. Parisian dressing may be rooted in simplicity, but that’s exactly why it translates so well into everyday winter outfits.
After a few weeks of scrolling, saving and studying the looks coming out of Paris, five key trends kept appearing. They’re wearable, investment-worthy and incredibly chic — exactly what I want from my winter wardrobe. And happily, most of them utilise winter wardrobe staples you likely already own.
Below is my edit of the top winter trends to know this season, as inspired by my favourite French fashion influencers. And should you find yourself in the mood to shop, I've cherry-picked pieces that will help you embrace each trend, whatever your budget.
5 Winter 2025 Fashion Trends French Women Are Backing:
1. Minimalist Coats
Style Notes: Minimalist coats are the backbone of French winter style. Clean lines, zero fuss, and a structured silhouette make this trend feel timeless and elevated. In true Parisian fashion, the coat does all the talking.
Shop the Trend:
Proof that winter fashion can be très chic.
The sort of coat you'd want to hibernate in.
The most gorgeous grey hue.
You can always rely on M&S for elevated pieces at a reasonable price.
If you're really looking to treat yourself.
2: Fairisle Knits
Style Notes: I love all the trends in this round-up, but if I had to pick a favourite, it would be the humble fairisle knit. There's something so nostalgic and comforting about the print that makes it hard not to smile whenever I don one. Brands are clearly catching on — there's so many to pick from at the minute.
Shop the Trend:
50 shades of neutral (and loving every single one of them).
So cosy.
J'adore.
So pretty!
The knit on all of our wish lists.
3: Burgundy
Style Notes: Burgundy is one of the standout shades of the French winter palette, and this outfit shows exactly why. There's something about the richness of burgundy that just feels sophisticated, every single time.
Shop the Trend:
A gorgeous wine-coloured hue.
Perfect for office-turned-dinner days.
Knitted midi skirts are my new obsession.
I'd find it hard not to get the matching jumper along with the skirt.
Burgundy suede? Sold.
4: Leather Bombers
Style Notes: Leather minimalism is gaining momentum in Paris, with bombers taking centre stage over traditional biker jackets. They're proof that winter dressing can still look cool.
Shop the Trend:
Thrown this on with your jeans and you've got effortless style.
This just landed at Reformation, and I'm very tempted.
A brand to have on your radar, if it isn't already!
This looks much more expensive than it's price tag.
Of course Frankie Shop has the perfect style.
5: Plaid
Style Notes: Plaid is having a major French-girl revival, and this look is proof that it can be wearable, toned down, and cosy. I'd also pair plaid outwear with simple denim for an effortless winter look.
Shop the Trend:
A fantastic high-street coat.
To me, this is a work of art.
Love the plaid and suede boots combo.
A classic winter staple.
The most gorgeous mix of colours.
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