Paris winter fashion is as functional as it is chic – which makes it the perfect inspiration for cold-weather looks. French women have mastered the art of effortlessly stylish layering, and it’s a good thing too – although it doesn’t snow often in Paris, temperatures drop enough to call for cold weather looks that are as cozy as they are chic for winter. Whether you’re planning on a winter trip to Paris or just want to bring the beauty of the city to you this season, keep reading for 10 outfits inspired by Paris winter fashion.
1. leopard print turtleneck + wool coat + hoops + jeans + ankle boots + handbag
top | pants | boots | coat | earrings | bag
Parisians love their neutrals – and that’s especially true in the wintertime. French women lean into the dark, moody color palette of winter by reaching for rich chocolate brown, midnight black, supple camel, luxe burgundy, and sometimes even bright ecru to mimic the lightness of snow. They may go for a pop of color now and again, but in general, you’ll find the streets of Paris decked out in neutral colors for most of the colder months.
As much as they love neutrals for winter, Parisian women also like to reach for the classics when it comes to winter dressing. You can emulate their chic look by pairing dark-wash jeans with a leopard print turtleneck, sleek ankle boots, and a soft suede bag. And don’t forget a cozy wool coat! This look is easily recreated with pieces from a capsule winter wardrobe, which means these items are great for mixing and matching all winter long.
2. turtleneck + shearling jacket + jeans + boots + leather gloves
nordstrom
Ralph Lauren Shearling Bomber Jacket
If you want to fit in with Parisian locals in the wintertime, try styling a statement jacket. French women know that a coat or jacket is the first impression of their look, and so they prioritize quality outerwear that embodies their personal style.
Many Parisians like to mix masculine and feminine pieces and dress with a bit of edge. Want to emulate their cool girl look for an afternoon at a coffee shop or meeting friends at the cafe? Try styling a shearling coat like the French woman above. Pair it with a warm turtleneck, classic denim, boots, and a shoulder bag for a casual, chic winter outfit.
3. wool coat + sweater + jeans + neck scarf + earrings + mary jane flats
coat | jeans | sweater | shoes | bag | earrings | scarf
Red is one of the most popular colors you’ll spot in Paris winter outfits. It’s the perfect bright shade to bring a bit of warmth and life to a darker color palette. Plus, Parisians will always reach for red, no matter the time of year – whether it’s in a neck scarf, a pair of flats, or a bright red lip.
When it comes to other winter essentials, straight-leg jeans are a non-negotiable for French women. They love the sleek silhouette of this style that pairs well with a wide range of footwear – from ballet flats to ankle boots to Mary Janes.
Dressing to meet a friend for lunch? Style straight-leg jeans with another winter wardrobe staple – a cozy cashmere sweater. This sweater is made with quality fabric that will last for a very long time if you take care of it correctly, and gives you plenty of warmth in the chilly air. Pair it with other red accessories, a navy wool coat, and a leopard print bag for a look that’s perfectly sophisticated and still comfortable.
4. faux fur coat + skirt + tights + knee-high boots + sunglasses + sweater
bloomingdale’s
Eva Faux Fur Jacket
Faux fur has been everywhere since last season, and it isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Parisians love the luxe look of this fabric, with the affordable price tag. Winter is the ideal time to mix and match textures with layered looks, and French women take full advantage of the colder weather to do so.
Create a layered look inspired by the stylish French woman above. Start with a black mini skirt and sweater, paired with tights and knee-high boots. Then, add your faux fur coat! Oval sunglasses, a top-handle bag, and gold hoop earrings complete your look. This would be the perfect outfit for grabbing a fancy cocktail at a bistro along the Seine to watch the hustle and bustle of holiday traffic.
5. cable knit sweater + coat + pearls + crew socks + loafers + sunglasses
coat | sweater | jeans | loafers | socks | earrings | sunglasses
Speaking of texture, cable knit sweaters are also a favorite among Parisians. They’re cozy, warm, and classic – what more could you ask for from a winter wardrobe staple? If you’re headed to go sightseeing in Paris this winter, this piece should be at the top of your packing list.
A cable knit sweater makes it easy to come up with new outfit ideas for winter. You can pair it with a skirt for a more elevated look if you’re heading to a nice dinner, or dress it down with classic denim. When you style it with a warm wool coat, you’ll be able to beat the winter chill with no problem as you walk around the City of Lights.
For a nighttime viewing of the Eiffel Tower, stay extra warm with a pair of cashmere trouser socks and suede loafers. Keep your jewelry simple and reach for a pair of pearl stud earrings. For a daytime visit, have a pair of oversized sunglasses with you for the cherry on top of your chic look.
6. wool coat + neck scarf + turtleneck + jeans + green socks + loafers
sezane
Vicky Loafers
French girls love Sézane – and we do too! It’s no secret that Sézane has a great selection of Parisian staples. They’re famous for their quality knits, trench coats, and staple French accessories.
If you want to walk in a French woman’s shoes, you’ll want a sturdy pair of loafers to do so! This pair from Sézane has a rubber outsole, which is key if you live somewhere that frequently rains or snows in the winter – the rubber will protect the leather of the shoe.
Pair your classic loafers with colorful socks (a French favorite that we spotted in street style on our last visit), and a colorful wool coat to match. Add a pattern with your neck scarf, and stick to a neutral base of jeans and a tan turtleneck sweater. It’s the perfect look for warming up with a cup of hot chocolate and people watching out the cafe window.
7. wool coat + sweater dress + earrings + scarf + tall boots
dress | boots | coat | bag | scarf | earrings
Neutral winter outfits don’t have to be boring, and Parisians offer proof of that! Since you’re sticking to a quiet color palette, add interest to your look in other ways – like silhouettes, fabrics, textures, and patterns.
If you’re heading out for a day of vintage shopping in Paris, style a look that’s as classic as it is comfortable. A cozy sweater dress is perfectly chic when paired with knee-high boots to help keep you warm. Layer on a Parisian-approved wool coat and a cozy blanket scarf. Minimalist jewelry and a suede bag are the perfect finishing touches!
8. poncho + trousers + leather gloves + flats + sunglasses + earrings
quince
Mongolian Cashmere Poncho
Do you love feminine, elegant outfits in the wintertime? If so, you’ll want to prioritize vintage-inspired silhouettes in classic, quality fabrics like silk, cashmere, and wool. You’ll find that French women value quality over quantity, especially when it comes to sophisticated styling.
Dressing up for work or a weekend event? You’ll love this effortlessly chic cashmere poncho, paired with soft silk or satin pants. Add contrast with your accessories, all in black, and play with vintage-inspired touches like elbow-length gloves and ballet flats. This is the ideal look to dress to impress and stand out in a sea of dark winter colors.
9. lady jacket + trousers + earrings + watch + slingback heels + handbag
heels | pants | jacket | bag | earrings | watch
You can’t get much more classic than a lady jacket – and this sophisticated staple is perfect for Parisian winter fashion. This structured take on a cardigan is minimalist but elegant with gold buttons and a timeless silhouette. These details make it so easy to dress up or down, depending on where you’re headed.
If you’re dressing for the office, pair a lady jacket with trousers for a business professional look. Accessorize with slingback heels to elongate your figure, and add pearl touches to finish the look. If you want to dress in a slightly more casual way, swap out your trousers for straight-leg jeans – it’s an easy fix that completely transforms the feel of this look.
10. blazer + pleated skirt + tights + heels + handbag + necklace
aritzia
Twirl Pleated Skirt
Midi skirts are the perfect style if you want to add a feminine touch to your Paris winter fashion. The French woman above balanced the look of her skirt with a structured blazer, making it a chic ensemble for date night or dinner with friends.
Try styling a monochromatic look like this one in the winter if you want to look effortlessly put-together. It doesn’t take any added effort on your part, but it makes it look like you put that much more time into your outfit. Plus, the single color scheme gives you a flattering effect!
Paris Winter Fashion Made Easy
Whether you’re heading to Paris this winter or just want to recreate the magic of the City of Lights at home, it’s no secret that French women have mastered chic cold-weather looks. You can get their signature sophisticated style with the help of neutral staples, luxe fabrics, and a pop of color (or two). Winter weather will be here before we know it, and these looks will make it that much easier to ease into the cooler, slower months.
In the meantime, want to learn the secrets of effortlessly chic French women? Up Next: How to Look Chic Without Trying: The French Way
