Les Francaises have a knack for making everything look as easy as un, deux, trois. From their no-makeup makeup to the breathy way they draw out their ouis, French women seem to have being effortless cornered. This is particularly true in winter, when looking cute can feel like a Herculean task. Even at subzero temperatures, French women move about unbothered, which felt novel to this Californian; the last thing I feel like doing when it’s cold and grey out is putting together a look.
But the French have it down to a science! This is partly due to how they shop. French women typically invest in a few good pieces per season, favouring timeless pieces over trends. A well-cut coat. Sticking to long-lasting durable fabrics that drape well. After my first winter in Paris, I picked up a few tips to make cold-weather dressing more fun—as well as a shearling coat and pair of camel riding boots that I still own today (after all, practice makes perfect.)
Follow along, and we’ll meet at the intersection of cosy and chic.
Style Notes: As temperatures drop, so do hemlines. A boxy-cut coat works equally well over a casual daytime outfit as it would over something dressier.
An elevated wool coat designed by no other than a French woman.
One of the best-quality coats on the high street.
Navy is always a chic choice.
No French roundup is complete without mentioning Isabel Marant.
Style Notes: Much like a mille-feuille, French women know that winter dressing is all about layers. Slipping on a long-sleeve tee or two underneath your coat makes it easy to adapt once you’re indoors.
This wool top is warm enough on its own but thin enough to double-layer.
French women always wear ecru tops.
Sumptuous and soft.
The lettuce trim is adorable.
Style Notes: Gloves aren’t just functional. They also offer hands (often-neglected but much-needed) UV protection. Plus, they keep your digits clean in public spaces.
These beige–coloured gloves would look beautiful peeking out from under a black overcoat.
This colour is stunning!
The suede on these look extra sleek.
These gloves are lined with shearling for extra warmth.
Style Notes: Knee-high boots always make me think of ’60s silver-screen vixens like Brigitte Bardot. Very French.
These are seriously chic.
Isabel Marant footwear is just as good as its apparel.
A retro-inspired design.
As you can see, these dreamy boots pair well with minis.
Style Notes: A great pair or two of wool pants will take you a long way in winter. Dressing up? Throw on a stacked heel boot and a cashmere sweater. Going for a stroll? A turtleneck and sneakers will do the trick.
You can’t go wrong with a tapered leg and mid-rise waist, especially at this price.
Take these from work to off-duty days.
An office-appropriate option.
Reformation’s Mason Pants come in sizes 2 to 28!
Style Notes: French women never sacrifice style for practicality. A jumper dress looks dressed up without feeling fussy.
A plush option on the high street.
A piece you’ll have in your wardrobe forever.
This comes in an array of great shades.
This is guaranteed to keep you warm on a winter’s day.
