Last week, I jetted off to Paris for a girls’ trip with my mom. It was her first time in the City of Light, so naturally I put together a packed itinerary to make sure she saw all the classics — the Louvre, Notre Dame, a day trip to Giverny, you know, the whole postcard-worthy lineup. But between the museum-hopping and landmark-strolling, I carved out plenty of time for two of my favorite Parisian pastimes: shopping and sidewalk café people-watching. With a glass of wine in hand (and maybe a crêpe or two), I couldn’t help but notice that the most stylish women seemed to be leaning on the same set of wardrobe heroes.
So, oui, I returned stateside with more than just souvenirs — I came back with a crash course in French-girl fashion. The best part? These chic staples are easy to work into our own fall closets. Think classic trench coats, rich shades of brown, swishy fringe and silk scarves tied every which way. Below, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite influencers flaunting the best — and most accessible — styles I saw during my vacation in France. So even if you can’t hop on the next flight to Paris, you can at least dress like you did.
Trench coats
Crisp fall days had started to settle in by the time I arrived last week, so it was no surprise to see many Parisians already entrenched in their coats. Timeless and naturally elegant, these khaki staples elevate any outfit while providing just the right amount of warmth for transitional weather. The classic silhouette has been a style icon for ages — and clearly isn’t going anywhere — though I did spot a few cropped versions that gave the look a cool new cut. Whether you go long and traditional or short and modern, a trench is the perfect way to button up your fall wardrobe with a touch of French flair.
Silky scarves
Every season ties in new accessory trends, but a silky scarf is one piece that never loosens its grip on French women’s wardrobes. This versatile gem can be styled in countless ways — draped around the neck, knotted in the hair or tied to a favorite handbag for an elevated finishing touch. While I spotted all of these classic takes, the most creative twist I saw was women wearing them as belts. It's a knot-so-basic styling hack that felt fresh, clever and très cool.
Slim sneakers
Look, I love a comfortable pair of kicks as much as the next girl, but Parisians have a knack for lacing sneakers with style instead of sport. Rather than sticking to the chunky, ultra-supportive pairs we Americans know and love, French girls are stepping out this fall in sleek, slim silhouettes. In other words, they’re running circles around the idea that sneakers can’t be chic.
A bevy of brown
Every season seems to brew up its own signature color, and in Paris this fall, the shade of choice was unmistakably brown. From velvety mocha to creamy latte, the city felt like one giant café menu come to life in human form. Sure, rich, moody hues for fall are nothing new, but Parisians have a way of making even the most classic tones feel fresh. Everywhere I turned, women were wearing chocolatey coats, espresso knits and caramel accessories — pieces so chic they practically looked good enough to sip.
Fringe details
One trend I wasn't expecting to see everywhere was fringe. From jackets to skirts to handbags, it seemed like every outfit had a little extra swing to it. Though in hindsight, I shouldn't have been too surprised — fringe details were seen on multiple fall/winter 2025 runways, including Khaite, Tod's and Calvin Klein. Not quite ready to swish and sway in a full-on fringe coat or dress? Start small with a tassel-trimmed accessory or a fringe-detailed shawl — the perfect way to dip your toes into the trend.
Polo sweaters
Sure, a sweater is always a fall go-to, but this season, polo knits are collar-ing all the attention. They instantly pull your usual bundled vibe up a notch with just the right touch of refinement. And that subtle peek-a-boo of the collarbone? Très chic, n’est-ce pas? Instead of leaning into the trendy prep-school aesthetic this fall with jeans and sneakers, follow the French lead and style your polo with tailored trousers, polished flats and your favorite baubles.
Big, slouchy bags
On my last few trips to Paris, tiny micro-bags were having a major moment, but this season, accessories are going big — literally. Oversized, slouchy bags were everywhere, and as someone lugging around souvenirs all day, I couldn’t have been more grateful for the trend shift. These carryalls are the stylish solution to the eternal “I need to bring everything, don't I?” dilemma. Need to? No. But can you? Mais bien sûr!
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