We all want to keep the chicness levels of our outfits high, even when the temperatures are low, but the journey to fashion nirvana in the winter months is anything but easy. After all, when the temperatures plummet, it's easy to just lunge for as many layers as possible, aesthetics be damned. There's one group, however, that seems to manage to maintain their chicness while also guarding against the cold. I speak, of course, of the ever elegant French women.
Desperate to follow their sartorial example this winter, I've scoured the Instagrams of 10 of my favourite French tastemakers to try to crack the formula of how they look elegant and cosy, all with that effortlessness that makes French style a global envy. Thankfully, that effortlessness seems in large part a result of keeping outfit formulas relatively simple, with most of them based on rotating key wardrobe staples. As you'll see, a number of pieces that are currently trending over here, such as suede jackets and leopard print, have long had the backing of the most stylish Parisians, meaning you can rest assured you'll be both on trend and have invested wisely if you follow their cue.
Scroll on to see a selection of the French girl winter outfits I can’t wait to try this season.
10 FRENCH GIRL WINTER OUTFITS I'M COPYING THIS SEASON:
1. TAILORED TROUSERS + CREAM KNIT + LEOPARD PRINT COAT
Style Notes: It may be the trend that's at the top of every fashion lover's wish list this season, but chic French women have always loved the look of leopard print. Keep things classic by opting for a staple piece such as a faux fur coat, which can instantly add a glam touch to even the simplest outfits.
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The perfect crop for pairing with high-waisted jeans.
The kind of soft knit I dream of during these cold days.
These bestselling trousers are currently on sale.
A cream and white trainer is always a good idea.
I'm such a fan of the mix of gold and pearl.
2. SEQUIN SLIP SKIRT + CASHMERE JUMPER + KITTEN HEELS
Style Notes: If there's one styling skill I envy most, it's French women's ability to make statement evening wear effortlessly cool for daytime attire. Take Sylvie's example—a sequin skirt is suddenly made daytime appropriate by paring it back with a cream knit. Perfection.
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M&S never fails me.
A brilliant party piece that with Sylvie's trick, you can take into daytime, too.
The contrasting textures is such a chic twist.
How cool are these earrings?
3. KNITTED MINI DRESS + KNEE-HIGH BOOTS
Style Notes: Knee-high boots are a cold weather staple, and no one loves them more than stylish French women. Use yours to add a sensual twist to another winter staple—the knitted dress.
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The kind of dress you could easily dress up or down.
A classic boot that is comfy too.
Arguably the most elegant bag I've ever seen.
4. STRIPED SHIRT + BLACK JEANS + WOOL COAT + MARY JANES
Style Notes: The key to elegant French style is relying on a rotation of classic items. Here, Franny's outfit is almost entirely made up of timeless styles, including a striped shirt, long wool coat, and ultra-wide leg jeans.
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A crisp cotton shirt is a wardrobe essential.
I love the fit of these dark blue jeans.
A long navy coat will serve you well for years to come.
I love how Franny uses her velvet flats to add a pop of the very on-trend red to this look—these Mary Janes are perfect for recreating.
5. BROWN TROUSERS + BROWN JUMPER + BROWN COAT + LOAFERS
Style Notes: If I'm being honest, most days I tend to rely on a formula of black and white styles. French wardrobes aren't necessarily bursting with colour, but I've noticed that when the most stylish French women opt for a monochromatic outfit in winter, the colour they tend to turn to is brown. Good news is, brown happens to be trending this season.
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An essential base layer.
Chocolate goodness.
In my opinion, COS makes the best trousers on the high street.
The ultimate finishing touch.
Understatedly elegant.
6. MINI DRESS + BOOTS + MAXI COAT
Style Notes: This season, high hemlines seem to be particularly popular. Follow Emmanuelle's example and give your knitted mini an elegant French twist by balancing the short hem with a floor-sweeping coat in a similar tone.
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This looks so much more expensive than its price tag.
Another high street standout.
A supremely elegant boot you'll love for years.
7. SHEER TOP + LEATHER JACKET + TAILORED TROUSERS
Style Notes: Sheer is another trend that has been gaining popularity over the past few months, but which stylish French women have long backed. Give yours a cool, Parisian look by layering a sheer top with tailored trousers and a classic leather jacket.
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I love the neck-tie. detail.
A true wardrobe staple with such a clean silhouette.
So many of our editors swear by these trousers.
The Prada satin mules are my Roman Empire.
8. JEANS + TRAINERS + COAT
Style Notes: When I think of the masters of layering, I think of stylish French women. With temperatures plummeting, I'm looking to their outfits for inspiration on how to work as many layers into my look while still looking chic.
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A modern classic.
A classic pair you're sure to love.
A luxurious option to tie over your shoulders.
This classic trainer isn't going anywhere any time soon.
A floor-sweeping coat is the ultimate finishing touch.
9. WHITE JEANS + SUEDE JACKET
Style Notes: From my research, it seems that the key to French women creating understatedly elegant looks is by balancing casual styles with an elevated piece. A great example of this is the suede jacket—a casual silhouette in a refined material, which can instantly upgrade a simple jeans and t-shirt look.
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This will be forever a wardrobe favourite.
The perfect fit.
I've had my eyes on this Gommino loafers for a long time now.
10. A SLEEK SUIT + HEELS
Style Notes: Party season is nearly upon us, so evening wear is front of mind. Take a page out of the French styling book and swap the dresses for a tailored look—and what better time to go for velvet than during the festive period?
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Oh, yes.
A sheer tuxedo shirt is the ideal match for this velvet suit.
To complete the look.
Carrie Bradshaw would approve.
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