Style

I Just Went To Paris—Here’s What The Fashion Girls Are Wearing This Fall

Not only was I awestruck by the beautiful, historic architecture, but also the fashion that was (dare I say) tres chic.

By Rachel Squier 3 min read
Pexels/David Kouakou

Picture this: She’s strolling down the streets of Paris. Book in one hand, a cigarette in the other (I know they’re bad for you, but Parisians make it look so incredibly chic). She lingers for a moment at the display case inside a quaint bakery before grabbing a still-warm baguette, and then she’s off again to meet her hunky, sun-tanned beau to whip up a meal from scratch while smooth jazz plays in the background of their candlelit apartment. Oh, and did I mention? She looks absolutely fabulous. 

Now, we may not all be able to be Parisian, but that doesn’t mean we can’t at least dress like one. 

I was fortunate enough to take a trip to Paris a few weeks ago (consider this your sign to get the trip out of the group chat and actually make it happen!), and let’s just say, I now fully understand the obsession. The architecture. The food. The history. The romance. And how can we forget… The fashion.

As I took in all the tourist attractions, I couldn’t help but look around at the locals, mesmerized by how truly effortlessly chic they looked. One by one, I would pass beautiful French women, captivated by their “less is more” approach: minimal makeup (we’re talking mascara, blush, and maybe a tinted lip balm), natural hair (messy waves that somehow don’t look messy), unmanicured nails (making me feel better about my own!), and clothing that was understated and timeless. The saying is true: they really do just have that je ne sais quoi about them. 

In the spirit of being a girl’s girl, I’m not one for gatekeeping, so here are 13 wardrobe essentials I clocked Parisians wearing this fall during my adventure abroad. 

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Short Bouclé Jacket

Is there anything worse than styling a cute outfit and then having to wear a jacket with it that just kills the vibe? I mean, technically, yes, there are worse things, but it’s still incredibly frustrating! The good news is that French girls have officially solved this problem with the bouclé jacket. They come in so many different variations that there’s sure to be one that fits every woman’s personal style.

Here are a few styles we love:

Adidas Sambas Sneakers

When I say that these were everywhere, I mean everywhere. Parisians are definitely loving these shoes right now, and it’s not hard to see why! In such a walkable city, sneakers are the way to go, and these are so cute! I saw them wearing these in both neutrals and fun colors. 

Here are the pairs we're wearing:

Oversized Sweaters

Crop tops? Not around here, la Parisienne. As far as streetwear goes, the French girls were all about oversized sweaters, usually in muted, solid colors or an understated print. Nothing too bold! 

The ones currently occupying our carts:

Wide-Leg Trousers

Trousers aren’t reserved for the office in France. Parisians are sporting these day and night, and consider me influenced. They’re practically pajamas, but chic. They’re way more comfortable than jeans, yet you look so put together! 

A couple of affordable picks that fit the bill:

Oversized Leather Jacket 

Looking cool while keeping warm? Don’t have to tell me twice. The best part about this trend is that the more worn in, the better. So feel free to hit up your local vintage shops for a steal!

No time to go thrifting? We love these styles for the same vibe:

Mary Janes

Is anyone else boycotting heels that are over 3 inches? Okay, maybe I’m being a tad dramatic, but I am all about any heel that is chunky and a more comfortable height, and apparently, Parisians are too! I saw so many wearing Mary Janes, usually in a black or red color.

Check out our list of the prettiest Mary Janes here!

Cardigans

Again, usually in more neutral or muted tones, but if they did spring for a color, it was a pop of red! 

Add to cart!

Massive Scarves

Parisians may be thin, but their scarves are chunky!

Ready to layer up? Grab one of our favorites.

Straight-Leg Jeans

Somehow, French women just have the best jeans. I’m honestly kicking myself for not asking where they shop for denim, but c'est la vie. They were all about a flattering yet relaxed fit, with most wearing a straight or slight wide-leg silhouette.

Check out these denim styles we love:

Canvas Tote Bag

Simple, affordable, and pickpocket-proof. What’s there not to love?  

I saw this specific Burgundy Façade Tote Bag from the Parisian bookshop Shakespeare and Company all over. Luckily for us, they ship worldwide!

Loafers (with Ankle Socks)

Another shoe that’s now on my to-buy list! I love the playfulness this adds to an outfit when paired with ankle socks.

Loafers we're obsessed with:

Striped Sweaters

Sometimes, stereotypes exist for a reason. This is one of those times. I mostly saw Parisians sporting this look in an off-white with black or dark blue stripes.

Don't mind if we do!

New Balance 530s

I actually bought a pair for the trip, so you can imagine my relief to see Parisians also wearing them! This sneaker is about as close to athleisure as French girls go for everyday wear. Again, living in a walkable city calls for comfortable shoes, so these are a must!

Get a pair for yourself here.