Our office is nonstop buzzing about all things French-girl style, from seasonal trends to classic outfit formulas. Who What Wear's editor in chief, Kat Collings, is no exception to the banter, and she is, in fact, leaning into Parisian style to inspire her fall wardrobe. She always brings her outfit A-game to the office, so I asked her for some style advice for other occasions. The three outfits she shared (thanks to Rebecca Taylor, which apparently also got the memo and is completely inspired by flawless French-girl style) are naturally just the right mix of chic and effortless. See for yourself.
THE EVENT: An Important Interview for That Big-Girl Job
Tell me about some of the trends this look touches on…
This look is effortless in the way a lot of matching sets are but actually touches on a few very current trends. Skirt suits? Big. The bourgeoisie trend? Even bigger.
What's the secret to styling a co-ord set?
My favorite part of matching pieces is that you've really got three outfits from one set. I'd experiment with styling them separately, perhaps a thin cardigan tucked into the skirt for the office and some baggier leather pants or even the trending leather Bermuda shorts with the jacket for an after-hours look.
What do you like most about these pieces?
I love that tweed will legit never go out of style. You can always count on it.
What do you look for in a work-specific outfit, and why does this fit the bill?
I look for equal parts professional polish and fashion-forward elements. If a look straddles the line like this one, you've got Who What Wear office outfit success.
THE EVENT: Day-to-Night Plans With No Real Agenda (or Dress Code)
Tell me about the new-season trends this look incorporates…
The slight volume at the sleeves is a romantic touch that nods to the '80s puff-sleeve that trend that seems to have staying power.
What are some styling tips you have for these pieces?
That waistline is begging for a chain belt.
What do you like most about these pieces?
The mixed print on this dress is the standout feature to me. I love that it plays with print scale within one color palette.
What do you look for in a good date-night outfit, and why does this fit the bill?
Good date-night outfits make you feel confident, which is why dresses are often an easy choice. There's no fussing with separates or keeping things tucked in. It's one and done, as they say. Also any outfit with plenty of room for a big meal is a plus in my book.
What are some of your favorite date-night spots in L.A.?
Night + Market Song's Thai street food is always lively if you want something that's easy and casual but still packed with personality. Plus, they were super early adopters of the natural wine trend. Hot tip: The Silver Lake location is far superior, and we drive 20 minutes further just to go to that one. Bestia is also a go-to, but if you don't want to trek to the warehouse district, Ronan has been scratching my Italian itch. They have a glorious menu item that's a French dip crossed with a calzone.
THE EVENT: The Perfect Fall Evening Out
Which new-season trends do these pieces touch on?
Leather for fall is a perennial trend, but this season the love for the luxurious trend has reached new heights.
What are some styling tips you have for these pieces?
Pairing something tougher like leather with a cozy knit creates a delightful contrast.
What do you like most about these pieces?
The tie detail at the ankle makes these leather pants stand out from the pack.
What do you look for in a good weekend outfit, and why does this fit the bill?
On the weekends, comfort is king, but there are still occasions where I want to look polished. Enter this soft sweater and looser-fitting leather trousers.
What are some L.A. places you could see yourself wearing this look to?
I'd wear this pairing to gather with my girlfriends for our monthly book club and for any dinners that require a slightly more elevated ensemble.
More Looks We Love
Pictured: Rebecca Taylor Ribbon Lurex Jacquard Pleated Dress
Pictured: Rebecca Taylor Amea Applique Ruffle Top and Vegan Leather Tie Cuff Pants
Pictured: Rebecca Taylor Nova Dot Jacquard V-Neck Dress
Shop More French Girl–Inspired Clothing
Still in the mood to shop? Check out more Rebecca Taylor picks from the Who What Wear team.
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If a Parisian Shopped Nordstrom's Black Friday Sale, She'd Go for These 32 Chic ItemsElevated selects.
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Nicole Kidman Wore the Easy Heel Trend Every French Girl Wears With SkirtsGreat minds think alike.
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Forget Bombers—Stylish Women in L.A. and Paris Much Prefer This Elegant Jacket TrendJennifer Lawrence included.
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Effortless, Chic, and Classic—These 35 Zara Finds Have All the Makings of a Great French-Girl OutfitAdd these to your cart tout de suite.
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I Just Got Back From My First Trip to Paris—6 Trends I Saw EverywhereFrench-girl trends for fall, anyone?
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The French Knitwear Brand Every Parisian Has in Their ClosetThe greatest of all time.
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Katie Holmes, Kendall Jenner, and Dua Lipa Just Wore the Rich-Looking Color Trend French Women LoveClassic and chic.
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Law Roach's World: His New Book, Bag of Choice, and What He Grabs on a Target Run"[Styling] has made my world so much bigger."
