Embarking on a winter adventure in France is an experience that will leave you with lifelong memories. The country’s breathtaking landmarks, rich art heritage, and vibrant culture await your arrival, even if the temperature drops. To ensure your trip is nothing short of enchanting, preparation is key. But what does it take to prepare for a winter escapade in France?
Winter Travelling Outfit Ideas for France
As you prepare for your trip, it’s essential to consider the weather conditions and cultural norms of your destination. France, in particular, is known for its chilly winters, and it’s crucial to pack accordingly. The last thing you want is to feel under-prepared or like an outsider due to poor planning. In today’s post, we’ll delve into the world of winter packing and provide a comprehensive guide on how to dress for the season.
You’ll not only find a valuable packing list but also receive several outfit ideas to help you navigate the cold weather with style.
Packing List & Guide for French Winter Fashion
As you prepare for your winter trip to France, it’s essential to pack clothing that will keep you warm and comfortable.
Here are the must-have items to include in your luggage: a collection of sweaters, jeans (both black and regular), heavy slacks, thermal underwear, leggings or tights, waterproof leather boots (consider knee-high for added protection), hats, gloves with touchscreen-friendly fingertips, scarves (Parisians wear them year-round, so it’s a wardrobe staple), and a winter coat that prioritizes warmth over style.
Additionally, don’t forget plain tee-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, button-down tops, and thick socks to round out your capsule wardrobe. This thoughtfully curated list acknowledges the reality that as a tourist, you’ll likely spend more time outdoors than locals, and it’s crucial to be prepared for the cold weather. By focusing on warmth and practicality, you can avoid the misery of being underdressed and enjoy your time in France.
22 – How to Style an Outfit for France in Winter
I’m a huge fan of flat-lays because they allow us to dissect an outfit into its constituent parts, making it easy to tweak, swap out, or add pieces until we achieve the perfect look. This particular ensemble is ideal for a winter trip to France, where you might consider adding a hat and scarf on extra chilly days. That being said, this outfit is already quite well-rounded! For more inspiration like this, be sure to check out our previous post on French Fashion Trends.
The pieces that make up this look include the Body Contour Cozy Mock Neck Top ($32.40), Wool-blend Coat ($199), High Waisted Extra Supersoft Dark Wash Seemed Skinny Jeans ($52.80), Slouchy Knee High Block Heel Boot ($58.80), Mini Traveler Leather Tote ($375), and 58mm Gradient Round Sunglasses ($380).
21 – French Winter Fashion for Plus-Size
Embracing the beret as part of your French adventure is all about embracing the essence of la vie en rose. If you’re drawn to the iconic look, don’t let fear of being seen as a tourist hold you back – seize the moment! To truly embody the je ne sais quoi of this outfit, opt for a thick, high-quality dress that exudes confidence and style. Pair it with over-the-knee boots, complete with leggings underneath for added warmth and comfort. This ensemble is sure to make you feel like a true Parisian.
20 – What to Wear in Paris in December
Parisians’ affinity for darker hues is well-documented, but their neutral palette extends beyond mere aesthetics. A carefully curated ensemble featuring a thick, tasseled sweater, wool coat, and black jeans embodies effortless chic while prioritizing warmth and comfort. The pièce de résistance? A pop of bold red lipstick that elevates the entire look.
19 – What to Wear With Turtlenecks
This standout outfit boasts the quintessential ’90s flair, combining belted trousers with a stylish neutral coat and effortlessly cool loafers. The overall aesthetic is undeniably chic, making it a compelling choice from our curated selection.
18 – Where to Buy French Clothing?
As your trip draws near, you may ponder acquiring a wardrobe of authentic French attire from a renowned local brand. A standout choice that I highly recommend is the iconic Comptoir des Cotonniers store. With an extensive range of trousers, jackets, and skirts to choose from, embracing the essence of French style requires nothing less than donning clothing crafted by the French themselves.
17 – Wool Coat and Wool Skirt
Stay cozy and stylish with this outfit, which features a coat with elegant button detailing that adds an extra touch of sophistication.
16 – What to Wear With Trousers in France
The belt-waisted trousers exude confidence, resulting in an eye-catching overall look. This popular styling involves wearing a collared shirt underneath a cozy knit sweater, with the shirt neatly tucked in.
15 – What to Wear in Paris Fall 2021
For autumn-inspired outfits, you can simplify your wardrobe choices by leaving out the extra accessories and focusing on a more streamlined look. Consider pairing a versatile outerwear piece, such as the Double Face Wool Coat ($129.90) or the Free People Easy Street Tunic Sweater ($128), with comfortable bottoms like the Wedgie Icon Fit Jeans ($89.50). For added functionality, throw in the SAINT LAURENT Beige North/South Shopping Tote to carry your essentials.
If you want to add a stylish touch, the Calabria Bootie ($129.50) would be a great choice to complete your look.
14 – Footwear for the Perfect Winter Outfit in France
When it comes to staying warm and stylish, knee-high leather boots are an excellent choice. For days where the weather is less than cooperative, consider investing in waterproof boots to ensure your feet stay dry even when trekking through snow. And don’t forget to check the forecast before heading out, just in case. If you’re looking for more inspiration on travel footwear, our comprehensive guide on Best Walking Shoes for Europe Trip is a great place to start.
As for other essentials, consider adding the Ridley Funnel Neck Wool & Cashmere Sweater ($259) or the Cozy Asymmetrical Midi Skirt ($149.97) to your packing list. For a stylish yet practical accessory, the Soft Lady tote bag ($695) is a great option. Meanwhile, the Nine West Brixe Boots ($199) are a more affordable and stylish choice for keeping your feet warm.
13 – With Teddy Coat
If packing space is a concern, consider bringing a teddy coat as an alternative. Its generous size, plush material, and warming properties make it a fantastic addition to any winter wardrobe. When paired with a classic turtleneck, fitted black pants, and knee-high boots, the overall look becomes effortlessly stylish and très chic.
12 – Accessories for a French Winter Outfit
While French fashion is often understated, there’s one accessory that’s de rigueur for Parisian women: a stylish neck scarf. This versatile piece of fabric can be worn both indoors and out, adding a splash of color to even the darkest outfit. But its uses don’t stop at the neck – you can also use it to add a pop of color to your purse or wear it as a belt. The best part? It’s incredibly lightweight and takes up virtually no space in your luggage, making it a must-pack item for any traveler.
11 – How to Style a Beret French Style
To give your beret-wearing ensemble a unique touch, consider swapping out the striped top for a more understated combination featuring loafers, jeans, and a plaid coat. This look is perfect for milder weather, but feel free to swap out the loafers for boots or other cold-weather footwear if you’re wearing it on a chilly day.
10 – Cardigan With Jeans
When venturing out and about, you’ll often find yourself navigating between indoors and outdoors. This outfit is a perfect solution for such days, as it’s designed to be easily layered up or down. The star of the show is the CLAUDE Wool Cardigan, which not only adds a touch of sophistication but also provides excellent warmth. Paired with the Pima Micro-Rib Turtleneck and High Rise Kick Pinch Waist Jeans, this ensemble is both stylish and comfortable.
To complete the look, add the ROMETTY LEATHER CHELSEA BOOTS for a chic finish. Whether you’re strolling between museums or just running errands, this outfit is sure to keep you looking great while keeping you warm and cozy.
9 – With Thick Black Scarf
Wrap yourself in a sense of effortless elegance with this understated yet charming ensemble, perfect for navigating the City of Light’s iconic streets, delving into world-class museums, or embracing the rustic charm of rural France.
8 – Oversized Nanushka Coat
There’s something undeniably captivating about this ensemble that has me hooked. The oversized coat, in particular, steals the show when paired with timeless jeans and sleek leather ankle boots. This outfit has the versatility to be layered for a more polished look or worn as is, exuding confidence and style.
7 – Chic Parisian Winter Fashion
The French girl style is epitomized in this outfit, where every element comes together seamlessly. The bold red lipstick adds a pop of color, while the 3/4 length jeans and turtleneck provide a chic foundation. The long coat adds an air of sophistication, making it easy to adapt this look for any season by simply adjusting accessories or layering accordingly. Notice the effortless, undone hairstyle and understated accessories that let the overall aesthetic shine.
6 – Houndstooth Jacket & Blue Jeans
One of the standout looks from our previous collection is a stylish ensemble that seamlessly blends elegance and edge. At its core is a showstopping Esther Houndstooth Jacket, which pairs perfectly with vintage-inspired 90’s High Rise Loose Jeans and sleek Vince Camuto Women’s Allost Pointy Toe Bootie Ankle Boots. This effortless combination exudes confidence and sophistication.
5 – What to Wear in France in Winter for Teenagers
This outfit is a must-try for anyone who loves oversized coats. The vintage-inspired combination of dark green accessories with a cool gray coat, black jeans, and combat boots has an undeniable charm. To complete the look, add a low bun hairstyle and carry a sleek black sack purse to keep your essentials in check.
4 – Plaid Wool Coat & Beanie
Step into the world of effortless French chic with this stunning combination of textures and neutrals. The foundation of this look is a pair of black skinny jeans, which serve as the perfect canvas for the rest of the outfit. A chunky platform boot adds height and visual interest, while a plaid coat brings a touch of rustic charm. To complete the look, add a beige knit beanie to keep your head warm and your style on point.
To recreate this look, try pairing:
* Beige Knit Beanie ($7.
95) – a simple yet effective way to add some texture to your outfit
* Double Breasted Long Peacoat Jacket ($65.99) – the perfect coat for any season, with its classic design and warm, woolly material
* Black Leggings ($14.99) – a wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or down
* Circus by Sam Edelman Women’s Darielle Ankle Boot ($99) – a statement-making boot that adds height and style to any outfit
3 – What to Wear to France in the Fall
When traveling to France during the seasonal transition, packing versatile clothing is crucial. As the weather warms up, a light and cozy ensemble becomes essential. Consider ditching the bulky coat and instead opt for a lightweight jacket that still provides warmth without overwhelming the senses. This outfit serves as a perfect example of how to effortlessly navigate the unpredictable French weather.
2 – Layered Sweater Vest and Long-Sleeved Top
Imagine yourself dressed to impress in this stunning outfit! The white blouse with its ruffled collar adds an undeniable touch of elegance, elevating this ensemble from ordinary to extraordinary. Paired with black leather leggings, a stylishly tousled hairstyle, and bold chunky gold earrings, you’ll be turning heads and making memories.
1 – Casual Winter Street Style for France
To round out this stylish yet comfortable ensemble, we have a perfect blend of functionality and fashion. For those days where you’re exploring the city on foot, this outfit strikes just the right balance. The sweatpants and sweatshirt are elegantly complemented by a chic coat and boots (although flat boots might be a better choice for extended walking). Adding a touch of sophistication are the gold chain necklace and stylish watch.
This look is brought together with items from top brands such as the Cocoon coat in Italian stadium-cloth wool ($299.50), Wedge Turtleneck Sweatshirt ($33), Brooklyn Necklace ($106), Abercrombie & Fitch Black Sweatpants (similar) for $55, Small Manhattan Genuine Calf Hair & Leather Satchel, and Slim White Bootie ($57.50).
Frequently Asked Questions
As you prepare for a winter wonderland experience in France, you may have some pressing questions regarding your wardrobe choices. What are the unspoken dress code rules, and how do you avoid cultural faux pas?
Q. What should you not wear in France in Winters?
When it comes to dressing for France, particularly Paris, the tone is often elegant and sophisticated. This can be intimidating, especially if you’re not used to adhering to such high standards. However, there are certain fashion faux pas that visitors should avoid during the winter months.
Firstly, lightweight winter clothing is a no-go. As a tourist in France, you’ll likely be spending more time outdoors than indoors, whether it’s waiting in lines or exploring the city on foot.
And let’s not forget that French winters can be quite chilly! So, make sure to pack accordingly.
Secondly, leave your high heels at home. With all the walking and exploring you’ll be doing, good quality walking shoes are a must-have.
Thirdly, opt for more conservative attire over workout clothes. Locals tend to dress up even when out and about, so it’s best to blend in rather than standing out with loud or flashy outfits.
Lastly, steer clear of overly bold or neon colors.
Parisians are known for their understated style, and anything too attention-seeking will likely mark you as a tourist. By following these simple fashion guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to fitting in with the locals.
Q. What kind of clothes do they wear in France?
For the winter season, French fashion trends may shift based on seasonal changes. However, certain staples remain consistent across the seasons. Some of the most popular wintertime essentials include a trench coat for added sophistication, high-quality wool coats in neutral shades like gray or black, and statement-making accessories like large knit or cashmere scarves. To add a touch of flair to your outfit, incorporate a pop-of-color accent into your ensemble.
When it comes to footwear, opt for sturdy leather boots that can withstand the winter weather. Additionally, consider investing in thermal underwear as a means of streamlining your layering process and maintaining a comfortable temperature throughout the day. Finally, top off your look with a stylish hat that adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
Q. What do you wear in France to not look like a tourist?
When exploring the French winter fashion scene, it’s essential to blend in seamlessly with the locals. To achieve this, leave any bold or region-specific accessories at home, such as baseball caps and fanny packs. Instead, opt for a simple, modern, and understated style by sticking to darker shades, logo-free tees, and avoiding overly trendy items like berets if you’re feeling uncertain.
By keeping your look neutral, you’ll be able to focus on immersing yourself in the unique cultural experiences France has to offer. As you prepare for your trip, I hope this advice has been informative and exciting for you.
