7 Chic and Classic Trends I’ve Spotted French Women Wearing on the Streets of Paris

Earlier this year, I finally returned to Paris after nearly a decade, prepared to bring home a ton of outfit inspiration (and a carry-on bursting with new clothes). Still, I wasn’t ready for how true the cliché about French women being chic turned out to be. Everywhere I looked, I spied an effortlessly assembled outfit that could have walked straight off the page of a fashion magazine—from simple jeans-and-jumper combinations to offbeat ensembles, it was a goldmine of fresh ideas. I left more convinced than ever that Parisians are masters of style.

Now that winter is well underway, I’ve found myself overwhelmed by the trends and in desperate need of sartorial help. So naturally, I’m turning to my Gallic mentors. Having witnessed countless street-style treasures during my sojourn to the city of lights, I sought out some impromptu snaps taken during the most recent Fashion Week. Back in September, Parisians were already dipping their toes into winter style, and seven trends in particular have made repeated appearances.

Scroll on to find out which classic fashion trends French women are embracing for winter and well into 2025, too.

PARIS STREET STYLE TRENDS:

1. Animal-Print Outerwear

(Image credit: Launchmetrics)

Style Notes: 2024 fashion has established that animal print is here to stay. The timeless motif never truly went away, but the latest maximalist interpretation sees leopard patterns adorning full-length coats and faux fur jackets. How much animal print is too much? According to Parisians, the answer is clear: ‘more is more’.

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2. Jumbo Suede Tote Bags

(Image credit: Launchmetrics)

Style Notes: I saw suede tote bags everywhere on my recent trip to Paris. The slouchy silhouette and rich fabrication tie in perfectly to the effortless, sophisticated aesthetic French women are known for.

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3. Bold Shoulders

(Image credit: Launchmetrics)

Style Notes: Generally speaking, the French favour simplicity, but they also have a knack for adding a striking detail to elevate an otherwise understated look. Enter the exaggerated shoulder trend, seen across outerwear and tailoring this season and styled with a subtle hint of androgyny by the Parisian fashion set.

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4. Red Knitwear

(Image credit: Launchmetrics)

Style Notes: French style is often synonymous with neutral colour palettes and minimalist silhouettes, but lately, a bold splash of red has taken centre stage—particularly in knitwear form. Add a crimson cardigan or jumper to your winter wardrobe to boost your muted looks.

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5. Barrel-Leg Jeans

(Image credit: Launchmetrics)

Style Notes: Barrel-leg jeans have dominated 2024, characterised by a relaxed, slightly curved leg. This cool cut has unsurprisingly won over the jeans-loving population of Paris.

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6. Subtle Stud Detailing

(Image credit: Launchmetrics)

Style Notes: Studded bags are big right now, but that’s not where the embellishment ends. Paris Fashion Week saw all kinds of leather looks made edgier with the addition of silver studs, from pencil skirts to ankle boots.

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7. Heeled Knee-Highs

(Image credit: Launchmetrics)

Style Notes: Step aside, riding boots and thigh-highs—heeled knee-high boots are the most-featured footwear in Paris right now. Choose from a low kitten heel, a blocky silhouette or a platform to bring your winter outfits to new heights.

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