It’s fall in NYC, but for some reason, I can’t stop dressing like I’m in Paris. French style has taken over my feed, from Parisian color trends to the flat-shoe trends French women are wearing. I’ll admit I’ve never received more compliments. So I decided to look inward to analyze what makes my style feel so European. And I found it’s in the basics.
The anti-trend pieces French women rely on year after year—that’s the key. I don’t want to give too many spoilers, because ahead you’ll find the six anti-trend Parisian items I’m talking about, but think timeless, classic items like a crewneck cardigan or leather skirt. These pieces are workhorses, meaning styling them comes easy. And so do the compliments. Scroll on to see which French-woman essentials made my list.
6 Anti-Trend Parisian Items for Fall 2026
1. Suede Blazer
This humble jacket carries the weight of most chic Parisian wardrobes. It’s simple, low-effort, and sharp.
Reformation
Veda Remi Leather Jacket
ZARA
Zw Collection 100% Suede Leather Oversized Jacket
MANGO
Straight Blazer With Front Stitching
2. Leather Column Skirt
If there’s one thing to take away from this list, it’s this: a leather column skirt. Particularly, ALC’s Marta Skirt. Even our cofounder Hillary Kerr swears by it.
ALC
Marta Leather Midi Skirt
Favorite Daughter
The Meyer Faux Leather Midi Skirt
Modern Citizen
Briony Back-Slit Vegan Leather Skirt
Nordstrom
Leather Pencil Skirt
3. Crewneck Cardigan
During my first visit to Paris, I noticed French women love a crewneck cardigan. And now so do I.
J.Crew
Jackie Cardigan in Premium Ultrafine Cotton
Reformation
Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan
Nordstrom
Cashmere Crewneck Cardigan
4. Pop of Red
I’d be hard-pressed to find a Parisian who doesn’t believe in a pop of red. Whether it’s in the form of a red lip or knit, this addition of color is always welcome.
Madewell
Arden Rollneck Cotton Pullover – Pomegranate Seed
COS
Rounded Wool Crew-Neck Sweater
MANGO
Limoni V-Neck Sweater
Reformation
Dove Cashmere Oversized Turtleneck – Lipstick
Alex Mill
Nottinghill Wool Sweater
5. Plaque Belt
Arguably the “trendiest” on the list, this statement belt was popular long before the urban cowgirls of Paris started styling it. It adds a chic, Western flair to just about any outfit.
maje
Leather Belt With Oval Buckle
B-Low the Belt
Leighton Croc Embossed Leather Belt
Madewell
Oval Buckle Suede Belt
L’AGENCE
Machado Ribbed Dome Belt – Chocolate Suede
rag & bone
Wyatt Belt – Olive
6. Straight-Leg Jeans
It will be years before straight-leg jeans to go out of style (if they ever do). The relaxed fit makes them wildly easy to style. Go for a shawl or an oversize knit, and thank me later.
ZARA
Zw Collection High-Rise Straight Fit Jeans
AG
Brinley Mid Rise Straight Leg Jeans
Vuori
Vintage Straight Leg Jean 30″
ZARA
Trf Mid-Rise Straight Fit Jeans
AGOLDE
’90s Pinch Waist High Waist Straight Leg Jeans
Explore More:
