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10 Chic Fall Pieces Every French Woman Owns

10 Chic Fall Pieces Every French Woman Owns

french fall fashion

Here are the ten wardrobe staples that define French fall fashion. Fall is definitely my favorite season when it comes to styling, as I love to combine my favorite aspects of winter and summer to create the perfect wardrobe for “la rentrée” (back-to-school).

In today’s article, I’ve compiled a list of the ten autumn essentials that are found in every French woman’s wardrobe —and on every Parisian street. From the classic trench coat to the Breton-inspired knitwear and the wool-blend blazer, these items below are as effortless and easy to wear as they are elegant. Keep scrolling to see and shop the ten French fashion staples for the fall season.


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1. The Blazer

The blazer is a French fall fashion essential. It’s the perfect fall outerwear piece that can elevate any outfit. This season, opt for a slightly oversized blazer that will allow you to wear a nice cashmere sweater underneath when temperatures get chillier. Colors like navy blue, grey, burgundy, or black are trending this fall. In terms of prints, opt for timeless ones like stripes, checks, or houndstooth.

Consider opting for this beautiful Sandro houndstooth suit jacket or this classic Sézane Michele jacket. I absolutely love this Loulou Studio striped blazer. For an effortless yet chic French fall look, pair your favorite blazer with a turtleneck underneath, tapered denim, and a nice pair of loafers.

2. The Trench Coat

The beige trench coat is a French fall must-have. It’s the perfect coat for this transitional autumn period between light jackets and heavy-duty coats and for those rainy days ahead. A high-quality trench coat will keep you warm all seasons and will add chic to any of your outfits. In terms of colors, opt for beige, khaki, or navy blue, and this season, the longer, the more fashionable.

Being French, the trench is one of my favorite outerwear pieces for the autumn season. I’ve had a few different styles over the years, but my favorite is the Sézane’s Scott trench coat. The J.Crew relaxed heritage trench coat in chino is a great option as well.

3. The Elegant Overcoat

An elegant overcoat can transform any outfit and make casual separates look put together instantly. This season, the best fall coats go back to basics with classic colors (think navy blue, black, or grey) and silhouettes. Opt for a long black wool coat like this gorgeous Totême signature wool and cashmere-blend coat or this timeless Sézane James coat. I also have this beautiful Sandro long coat on my wishlist.

4. The Striped Knitwear

The Breton-inspired knitwear is one of my favorite trends of the season! I have this Sézane Bastier jumper in merino wool on my wishlist. If you love the Totême striped wool-blend turtleneck sweater, Rosaé Paris offers a cheaper alternative with Le Sablons chunky knit. This fall, pair this iconic French piece with a trench coat, jeans, and a pair of ankle boots.

5. The Oversized Shirt

The oversized shirt is an indispensable staple in the French fall wardrobe. Its loose silhouette offers a versatile canvas that can be easily dressed up or down, making it a go-to piece for various occasions. This piece perfectly captures the French aesthetic of “le chic décontractée,” or casual elegance, allowing for a relaxed yet polished look.

This season, I have a thing for the shirts from the Parisian label Sébline. Pair your favorite oversized shirt with tailored trousers for a sophisticated ensemble, or wear it over a fitted turtleneck for layered warmth.

6. The Turtleneck

The turtleneck is another quintessential item in the French fall wardrobe. Known for its high, close-fitting collar, the turtleneck offers an added layer of warmth, making it an ideal choice for the crisp autumn air. Its sleek silhouette lends itself to many styling options, from pairing with high-waisted trousers for a chic, streamlined look to layering under a blazer for added sophistication.

This fall, consider opting for a classic turtleneck in navy blue or black. My ultimate favorite is this Sandro roll-neck wool sweater (I’m a size M, and I bought it in size XS). I love this beautiful Sézane’s Jacob jumper as well.

7. Wide-Leg Pleated Trousers

The wide-leg cut offers a liberating range of motion, making them as comfortable as they are stylish. Pleats add a touch of classic refinement, elevating the trousers into a versatile piece that can transition seamlessly from casual to formal settings. Often crafted from heavier fabrics like wool or tweed, these trousers provide the necessary warmth for the autumn season without compromising on elegance.

This fall, consider opting for this beautiful Loulou Studio pleated pinstriped wide-leg pants or this Sézane Loulou trousers in navy & ecru stripes.

8. The Tapered Denim

Tapered jeans offer the perfect balance between casual comfort and sartorial elegance. The tapered silhouette, which narrows towards the ankle, provides a flattering fit that complements a variety of footwear options, from ankle boots to loafers. It’s the perfect style of jeans that can elongate the legs and create a balanced silhouette. This fall, I absolutely love this pair of Totême high-rise tapered jeans.

9. Ankle Boots

Ankle boots offer a stylish yet functional footwear choice that is perfectly attuned to the demands of the fall season. Their design is versatile, allowing them to be paired effortlessly with various outfits, including skirts, dresses, trousers, and denim. Typically made from leather or suede, ankle boots are not only durable but also offer a timeless and elegant look.

This autumn, I have a “coup de coeur” for these beautiful Carel Estime and these Audrey leather ankle boots. I also have these Chloé Susanna studded leather ankle boots on my wishlist.

10. Loafers

Loafers are a beloved French fashion staple for fall. These flat shoes offer the ideal blend of comfort and sophistication, making them a versatile choice for various occasions. Loafers can be paired with anything from tailored trousers to casual denim and even skirts or dresses. Their ease of wear and classic design make them a perfect footwear option for the fall season.

Last year, I bought these beautiful Tod’s Gomma Pesante loafers (made in Italy), which I highly recommend! I love these Sandro thick-soled leather loafers as well.

Et voilà! I hope this shoppable guide to the best French fashion essentials will help you create a wardrobe full of stylish staples this fall. Let me know in the comment below if you have any questions.

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