This French-Girl Outfit Formula Never Fails to Make Me Look Chic in Winter
I rack up a lot of miles on the pants odometer in winter. Jeans, in particular, are the go-to piece I rely on daily to keep me warm and looking cool. But after the umpteenth time wearing them, jean fatigue is unquestionably setting in. Luckily, the fashionable French set has kept any signs of sartorial boredom at bay. After studying in depth how French girls stay impeccably chic even through the most frigid winter months, there’s one particular French-girl outfit formula I’ve been stealing in lieu of my tiresome pants outfits: a skirt, tights, and boots, which is the secret sauce to an elevated-looking winter look. I recommend sticking to knee-high boots and pairing them with a mini or midi skirt. Then, just add some sheer or thick tights. Trust me—the simple and stylish combination always works.
If you need more proof, below I’m sharing plenty of chic skirt, tights, and boots outfits I’ve spotted on some of my favorite French influencers. Simple yet elevated, these are guaranteed to inspire your next cold-weather ensemble.
An ivory wool miniskirt suit looks all the chicer when paired with contrasting thick black tights and croc-effect knee-high boots. This look will keep you warm and seriously stylish.
Elevate a chunky cable-knit sweater by pairing it with a miniskirt, sheer tights, and leather knee-high boots.
For a polished look, opt for a sleek midi skirt paired with tall leather boots and tights. Style with a blazer to finish the look.
Contrast a mini hemline with a longline coat for a winter look French girls love.
A vintage midi skirt looks all the cooler when paired with worn-in tan boots and an oversize leather jacket.
Polka-dot sheer tights add interest to an all black look. Cool, flat riding boots are the perfect finishing touch.
A pop of color never goes amiss with this trusty French-girl outfit formula. Try a stripe knit midi skirt with your tights and knee-high boots and accessorize with a bold, colorful handbag.
The perfect combination of casual yet polished, a relaxed black sweatshirt paired with a black mini, sheer tights, and flat lug-sole boots is an outfit formula that always works.
Next: French Women Always Look Chic Thanks to These 8 Items
Judith Jones is the associate shopping director at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.
-
This Dated Denim Trend Is on Its Way Back—Here's How French Women Are Already Wearing It
Five outfit combos we're copying.
By Michelle Scanga
-
I'm Sad Too, But According to Parisians, These 7 Trends Aren't Making the Cut in 2025
Plus, the seven that are.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
People in Paris Wear These 4 Elegant Items, and They'll Be Essentials in 2025
Chic staples ahead.
By Bobby Schuessler
-
IG Has Billions of Accounts, But These 6 French Creators Will You Teach You Everything to Know About Style
Let them transport you straight to Paris.
By Emma Spedding
-
5 Affordable Wardrobe Investments French Women Are Making in 2025
On y va!
By Ana Escalante
-
This French Brand Has the Perfect Anti-Canvas Tote—and It's Already Trending
It's time to say goodbye to that scruffy old canvas shopper.
By Emma Spedding
-
Emma Chamberlain's World: Her Warby Parker Collab, Two-Phone Rule, and Spiciest Fashion Takes
"I just want to bring the most joy to people."
By Anna LaPlaca
-
6 Winter Accessory Trends All the Chic French Women Are Suddenly Into
The easiest outfit upgrades.
By Natalie Cantell