The Easy Outfit Formula You'll Spot All Over Paris This Fall

A woman wearing a tan scarf sweater, a leather skirt, and a black bucket bag.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Over the years, I've come to understand that creating a stylish and elegant appearance doesn't have to be so complicated. Rather than worrying about keeping up with the latest trends, I've found that focusing on timeless, well-made wardrobe essentials is the easy choice for a fashionable look. A prime example of this simplistic mindset is the pairing of skirts and sweaters.

These two pieces work together every time because they can each stand on their own, but when combined, they create a refined vibe. Specifically, though, the casual knit balances out the sophisticated skirt and vice versa. Plus, the combination is a polished alternative to the other classic two-piece outfit: jeans and a sweater.

Don't believe me? Keep reading because I sourced five cool sweater-and-skirt outfits seen on the streets of Paris and New York City. Trust me—take notes from these fashion people on how they turn two simple pieces into je ne sais quoi fits.

Clara wears a black sweater, black midi skirt, and black flip flops.

(Image credit: @claradyrhauge)

This ensemble adheres to the principle of "less is more." The focal point is the flowy black skirt, which is a must-have addition to your wardrobe. This adaptable garment will effortlessly transition your look into the cooler months, lending a dash of Parisian sophistication to all your outfits.

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Sylvie mus wears a black blazer, black sweater, belt, white lace skirt, gray tights, and black slingbacks.

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

Everywhere I look, fashion people are pairing sweaters and skirts with belts. While some may consider it unnecessary, I believe the addition of a belt is crucial. It elevates the entire ensemble, giving it a deliberate and polished look rather than appearing hastily put together.

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A woman wears a red sweater, black hermes bag, black pencil skirt, sheer tights, and black pumps.

(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

I'm looking to replicate this outfit above ASAP. Something about the chunky turtleneck sweater and red and the ankle-grazing pencil skirt skirt really appeals to me. Plus, the sheer tights, pumps, and leather gloves complement the sophisticated vibe of the entire outfit well.

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A woman wears a yellow sweater with a white collar, a black chanel bag, black leather midi skirt, and black mary janes.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Lately, fashion people have been all about preppy style, like incorporating Peter Pan–collar sweaters into their wardrobes. Similar to simple crewneck knit designs, these are equally versatile—they can be styled with a printed maxi skirt or a simple leather midi. With fall around the corner, swap sandals for closed-toe flats, and you'll have a well-put-together fall-ready ensemble.

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A woman wears a blue textured sweater, a sheer skirt, ballet flats, and beige sunglasses.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

On those beautiful days when the weather is transitioning from summer to fall, wearing a sheer midi skirt, chunky sweater, and ballet flats is a combination that you won't regret.

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Associate Fashion Editor

Nikki Chwatt is an associate fashion editor based in New York City. She joined Who What Wear in 2024 after writing fashion, beauty, and lifestyle content for WWD, Well+Good, Editorialist, and more. With a passion for personal style and the creativity that comes with it, one of Chwatt's goals is to help others understand that there is no such thing as a “good” or “bad” style; it’s just about putting an outfit together that makes you feel confident in yourself. When she's not writing, you can find her taking a Pilates class, reading a powerful romance novel, or exploring a new wellness spot in Manhattan.