I Just Came Back From Paris—6 Coat Trends I Spotted Everywhere (and Bought Immediately)


I just came back from Paris! As you can imagine, my mind is rife with sartorial inspiration and outfit ideas straight from the streets of the French capital. I was incredibly curious to see how Parisian women would still be able to turn a look while wearing layers upon layers in the middle of winter, and as you'd expect, I couldn't help but notice how effortlessly chic French women make even the simplest coat look. It’s like they have this secret formula for timeless elegance with a touch of cool, combining classic coat trends with fun accessories like colored boots and statement bags.
All in all, Paris truly proves that less is more when it comes to mastering the art of understated, yet undeniable, chic. Below, scroll through the six coat trends French women were wearing, from Le Marais to the Latin Quarter.
Wrap Coats
Wrap coats are some of the easiest, no-fuss Parisian coats you can buy. A slouchy, oversize silhouette with a simple, tied waist is an instant way to elevate any outfit while still being cozy and warm.
Scarf Coats
Although scarf jackets and coats were a major trend in 2022, Parisian women know that this practical coat trend lives far beyond any moment of TikTok virality. This year, I spotted so many women in the French capital wearing long, slouchy scarf coats in lieu of the two-toned cropped scarf jackets taking over my feed last year.
Trench Coats
While trench coats are more of a timeless staple than a trend for most French women, it doesn't negate the fact that this coat was nearly on every single chic French woman I saw in Paris. Wear over your favorite basic outfit to emulate that Parisian je ne sais quoi.
Leather Coats
For an edgy, '90s take on coat trends in Paris, look no further than a buttoned-up leather coat. While the French women I spotted wearing this trend were partial to all-black styles, mocha-brown leather coats look nearly as sleek and elevated without giving off a retro vibe akin to The Matrix.
Military Coats
Buttoned-up, sleek military coats were the pièce de résistance among elegant French women's outfits while I was strolling the bank of the Seine. Most women wore this coat style with black miniskirts and tights, opting for a feminine look when paired with the coat's statement hardware and tailoring.
White Coats
Although winter whites aren't quick to catch on in the mainstream, I saw quite a few French women strolling around the quiet luxury neighborhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés in ivory, white, and cream-colored coats. Paired with slim-fitting black trousers or jeans, this coat trend is the perfect way to make a statement in an understated, minimalist way.
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor known for her sharp takes on fashion and culture. She’s covered everything from Copenhagen Fashion Week to Roe v. Wade protests as the Editorial Assistant at Glamour after earning her journalism degree at the University of Florida in 2021. At Who What Wear, Ana mixes wit with unapologetic commentary in long-form fashion and beauty content, creating pieces that resonate with a digital-first generation. If it’s smart, snarky, and unexpected, chances are her name’s on it.
-
The One Unexpected Piece French Women Are Wearing With Literally Everything This Summer
Chic, sleek, and stylish.
By Michelle Scanga
-
I'm a Stylist in NYC Who Was Just in Paris for 3 Days—These Are the Chic and Easy Outfits I Wore
Elegant looks ahead.
By Bobby Schuessler
-
Every Stylish Parisian Is Wearing These 6 Shoe Trends This Spring
From woven sandals to retro suede sneakers.
By Judith Jones
-
If You Only Note One Trend From Fashion Month, Make It This One
Talk about ubiquitous.
By Eliza Huber
-
It's Spreading: Every Day, Another Chic L.A. Fashion Person Is Seen Wearing This Black-Pant Trend With Ballet Flats
French women also approve.
By Eliza Huber
-
Spotted on the Chicest Parisians: A Classic Basic Styled With Jeans, Skirts, and Trousers
Elegant looks ahead.
By Bobby Schuessler
-
In Case You Haven't Noticed, Everyone and Their Mother Is Wearing This Expensive-Looking Jacket
Rightfully so.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
10 Classic Spring Items Parisians Love to Wear With Jeans
Effortless, chic, and versatile.
By Judith Jones