8 Classic and Elegant Autumn Outfit Ideas, Courtesy of French Women
I can't think of many things that are more quintessentially autumnal than the streets of Paris come autumn. It's cosy, crisp and typical classic style that's so popular among the French is perfectly suited for autumn. Striped jumpers, blazers, trench coats, pleated skirts and tailored trousers are the backbones of a French woman's wardrobe, and the building blocks of a great wardrobe capsule. Historically speaking, Autumn is a busy time of year, so having a backlog of classic (and easy) outfit ideas is paramount. I took a scroll through the feeds of some of the most stylish French women on Instagram, and found five outfits that are making me excited for the autumn season. If you're ready to kickstart your autumn shopping and outfit planning, keep scrolling for eight chic French inspired outfits, and to shop the classic pieces that comprise them.
8 AUTUMN OUTFITS FRENCH WOMEN WILL BE ROTATING THIS SEASON:
1. Pink Blazer + Grey Mini Skirt + Burgundy Heels
Style Notes: Contrary to what you may believe, French women enjoy a healthy dose of saturation. Come autumn, you'll notice footwear and outerwear awash with pink and burgandy hues.
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Invest in a sturdy pair of tights that'll see you through the winter season.
2. Suede Jacket + Capri Pants + Mules
Style Notes: The noughties capri pant has re-entered the chat. Expect to see it as a key transitional piece, paired with suede outerwear, as demonstrated by Anne Laure Mais.
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Sézane has seen to a fresh restock of its popular Will jacket for the autumn. It's so good it comes in myriad colourways.
3. Grey Two-Piece + White Slingback Pumps + Shoulder Bag
Style Notes: From the office to after-work drinks and city jaunts, modern skirt suiting is proving to be one of the pieces when you're guaranteed low cost per wear. For a fresh twist, add a woollen knit.
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If rattan styles are feeling short lived, turn your attention to woven leather footwear.
4. Jumper + Shirt + Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: There's no doubt that monochrome outfits will always look good, but mix-matching your neutrals can be just a chic. I love Sylvie's mix of brown, black and grey with the white collar popping out.
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M&S has such high-quality basics at such a great price!
5. High-Neck Knit + Leggings + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: The weather already seems to be dropping here in the UK, so now is a great time to start thinking about those colder weather outfit formulas that are easy to throw on as well as look chic. A high-neck knit is a staple you won't regret purchasing. Simply throw on a blazer, leather leggings and your favourite ballet flats for an easy but stylish look.
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6. Double Denim Co-ord + Heeled Shoes
Style Notes: French women are accustomed to double denim looks and 2024's styles have been as classic as they are directional. Paired with jaunty shoes, it adds a contemporary touch.
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7. Slouched Shirt + Tailored Trousers + Brown Shoulder Bag
Style Notes: Squeeze the most out of your summer pieces by pairing them with tailored elements. The addition of soft ballerina flats softens the look.
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Make like a ballerina with the Leonie Grosgain flats.
8. Leather Jacket + Jeans + Trainers
Style Notes: When all else fails, French women, like really any other fashion person on the planet, relies on denim. Make like Lena and opt for dark-wash jeans, which pair perfectly with a leather biker and trainers. You could also swap the shoes for heels if you wanted to dress this look up, too.
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Avalon Afriyie is a freelance writer and storyteller based in London. She specialises in sustainable fashion, health and the narratives of marginalised communities. She has a background in fashion show production and styling, having previously worked on The Clothes Show and with the Lyst Group. Since graduating in 2013 with a BA (Hons) in English and contemporary media, she’s worked as a feature writer for an independent publication and a contributor for Quill’s creator network. She now marries her passion for words and style, writing for some of the most esteemed fashion and lifestyle publications, Who What Wear UK and Stylist. Avalon also provides copywriting services, creative consultancy, and visual media for independent businesses, including travel guides, interviews, press releases and blog posts. Her work has been featured on Lush, Contiki, Youswim and Ohne. She spends her days writing to her heart’s content for business and pleasure, shooting on film and dreaming of residing a stone’s throw away from the ocean with her love and a pup (clad in a sweeping frock, of course). She’s currently penning ideas for a book of personal essays and free verse poetry on love, life and the stages in between.
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